Aging in the Global South: Challenges and Opportunities

The book explores the challenges facing older adults in the global south, including aging in institutions, living arrangements, food insecurity, social isolation, end-of-life migration, and policy papers. It is the first book to bring together varied perspectives on the situation of older adults and the opportunities for developing innovative, sustainable programs to support elderly care services.

Format: Hardback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 18 December 2018
Publisher: Lexington Books

Aging is a rapidly emerging public health and social crisis that poses significant challenges for countries in the Global South. While development and improved public health services have extended human life expectancy, the quality of these extended years is often inadequate. Many countries in the Global South are experiencing a rapidly aging population, with a significant proportion of individuals living in poor health without access to necessary safety nets. This book explores diverse perspectives from Asia, Africa, and South America, shedding light on the various challenges faced by older adults. Topics covered include aging in institutions, living arrangements, food insecurity, social isolation, end-of-life migration, and policy papers.

This groundbreaking work is the first to bring together a wide range of viewpoints on the situation of older adults, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities that exist in developing innovative and sustainable programs to support elderly care services. By examining the experiences and insights of authors from different regions, this book provides valuable insights into the complex issues surrounding aging and offers practical solutions for addressing these challenges.

The book's chapters are organized into four sections, each addressing a different aspect of the challenges faced by older adults in the Global South. The first section explores aging in institutions, including the experiences of older adults living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other care settings. The authors examine the social, economic, and health implications of institutionalization and advocate for alternatives that promote independence and quality of life.

The second section focuses on living arrangements of older adults, including issues such as housing, transportation, and support networks. The authors explore the challenges faced by older adults who may be living alone or in vulnerable situations, such as poverty or discrimination, and propose strategies for improving access to affordable housing and transportation options.

The third section examines food insecurity among older adults, a significant problem in many countries of the Global South. The authors discuss the impact of poverty, discrimination, and health conditions on access to food and propose strategies for improving food security, including community gardens, food banks, and nutrition programs.

The fourth section explores social isolation and loneliness among older adults, a growing concern in many societies. The authors discuss the social, emotional, and health consequences of social isolation and propose strategies for promoting social engagement and reducing loneliness, including community-based programs, volunteerism, and technology-mediated communication.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and community organizations working to address the challenges facing older adults in the Global South. By bringing together diverse perspectives and offering practical solutions, this book contributes to the growing body of knowledge on aging and development in low- and middle-income countries. As the global population continues to age, it is essential to develop innovative and sustainable programs to support the well-being of older adults and ensure that they can live fulfilling and dignified lives.

Weight: 466g
Dimension: 162 x 236 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498545297