Experts Warn: India’s Senior Population Expected to Surge to 319 Million by 2050, Urgent Action Needed
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New Delhi, Dec 6 (NationPress) The senior demographic in India presently comprises around 104 million individuals, with projections indicating a rise to 319 million by the year 2050. This significant increase underscores the urgent need for coordinated actions to confront healthcare challenges, according to experts.
The essence of healthy aging revolves around enhancing physical, mental, and social well-being, thereby enabling individuals to lead long, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
Experts noted that while the government has made commendable efforts through various initiatives, persistent and significant issues surrounding elderly healthcare have surfaced over time.
“To empower older adults to maintain their independence, stay active, and fully engage in their communities throughout their lives, supportive environments and policies are essential,” stated Anil Rajput, Chairperson of the Assocham National Council on CSR, the social branch of the industry chamber, during a panel discussion.
Globally, aging is recognized as one of the most pressing social challenges of the 21st century.
In India, with a projected three-fold growth in the elderly population over the next 25 years and geriatric care still being a relatively nascent field in healthcare, primarily concentrated in urban areas, “I believe that empowering the elderly demands active and sustained involvement from the corporate sector, civil society, and government,” Rajput expressed.
According to Padma Shri Professor (Dr) Subhash Manchanda, a cardiologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, yoga holds promise in managing prevalent health issues among the elderly, including heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and joint problems.
“Research indicates that yoga could potentially delay cognitive decline and may possess anti-aging properties. Thus, yoga is highly recommended as an ideal approach for healthy and graceful aging,” he suggested.
Professor Vinod Kumar, a senior consultant in medicine and former head of the Geriatric Clinic at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, emphasized that a man's aspiration for graceful aging and a joyful old age can be fulfilled through a balanced diet free from addictions, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, tranquility, and engaging in active mental, social, and spiritual activities.
