For World Health Day on April 7, the World Health Organisation (WHO), in association with the Union ministry of health and family welfare, has called for greater attention to the older population in the country, its implications for health policy and for a better standard of life.
The WHO has indicated that the steady increase in life expectancy and the consequent large elderly population means non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiac disease, cancers, diabetes, mental health problems, vision and hearing impairment will continue to grow.
Statistics indicate that like the rest of the world, people are living longer in India too. According to WHO estimates, India’s population aged 60 years and above will grow from 77 million (7.4 per cent of the total population) in 2001 to 300 million (17 per cent) by 2050. This ageing of the population has major implications for the Indian health system and society as a whole, and needs to be addressed.
“The challenge for India, and all other countries, is not just to add years to life but to add life to years and to ensure that the elderly live full, enriching and productive lives. For this, good health is essential,” said Dr Nata Menabde, WHO representative to India.
The WHO country office for India has tied up with the Centre, and is planning a series of consultations, workshops and activities involving stakeholders at the national, state, and local levels. On April 7 on World Health Day, 19 state-level meetings and a national meeting will be organised.
“In the years to come, the elderly’s access to preventive, promotive, curative and rehabilitative services need to be improved. The launch of the Centre’s National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly is a step in that direction,” Dr Menabde said.