Social and Health Issues among Older Adults in India

The population of older persons (60 years and above) is globally growing faster than the general population, with the percentage of the elderly in India projected to increase from 8 percent in 2015 to 19 percent in 2050. This book aims to identify trajectories of health and their associations with lifestyle factors in a nationally representative cohort study of middle-aged and older Indians.

Format: Hardback
Length: 346 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2021
Publisher: Nova Science Publishers Inc

The global population of older persons (aged 60 and above) is experiencing a faster growth rate compared to the general population, driven by longevity and declining fertility rates. In India, for instance, the percentage of the elderly population has been increasing steadily in recent years, and this trend is projected to continue into the future. According to projections, the share of individuals over the age of 60 will rise from 8 percent in 2015 to 19 percent in 2050. By the end of the century, the elderly will constitute nearly 34 percent of the total population in India.

In this book, we aimed to explore the trajectories of health and their associations with lifestyle factors in a nationally representative cohort study of middle-aged and older Indians. We examined various aspects of health, including self-rated health status, age discrimination, major injuries, recurrent falls, perceived everyday discrimination, elder abuse, hypertension, diabetes, angina pectoris, stroke, arthritis, back pain or problems, oral health problems, cataract, edentulism, hearing loss, tobacco use, alcohol use, loneliness, healthcare discrimination, weight discrimination, religiosity, and well-being. Our findings have the potential to inform public policy and programs aimed at supporting middle-aged and older adults in India.

The increasing prevalence of older persons in the population presents both challenges and opportunities. On the one hand, the elderly population can contribute valuable experiences and wisdom to society. They can also serve as caregivers for younger generations, reducing the burden on families and the healthcare system. On the other hand, the growing number of older adults may strain resources and infrastructure, particularly in developing countries where healthcare systems are not adequately equipped to meet the needs of an aging population.

To address these challenges, it is essential to prioritize policies and programs that promote healthy aging and support the well-being of older persons. This includes initiatives to improve access to healthcare services, promote physical activity and healthy diets, combat age discrimination and promote social inclusion. It is also important to address the social and economic factors that contribute to loneliness and isolation among older adults, such as poverty, unemployment, and inadequate housing.

In conclusion, the population of older persons is globally growing faster than the general population, and India is no exception. The increasing prevalence of older adults presents both challenges and opportunities. By prioritizing policies and programs that promote healthy aging and support the well-being of older persons, we can ensure that this demographic group can continue to contribute to society and enjoy a high quality of life.

Weight: 634g
ISBN-13: 9781536199376