India's Elderly Deserve Better: Experts Push for Inclusive Geriatric Care Amid Rising Age-Related Challenges
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Experts at a recent conference in New Delhi emphasized the need for a more responsive and inclusive geriatric care model in India, where age-related health issues like dementia and Alzheimer's are on the rise. The Illness to Wellness Conference, which focused on promoting healthy and graceful ageing, highlighted that many senior citizens struggle to adapt to technology due to limited access and lack of age-friendly training. This has resulted in difficulties with physical infrastructure, public spaces, transport systems, and emergency response mechanisms, compromising their safety, mobility, and independence. Rajesh Bhushan, former secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, stressed the importance of recognizing geriatric care as a core public health priority, comparable to mental health and non-communicable diseases. He emphasized that care must begin at home and be strengthened through district-level systems, with a focus on trained caregivers, home-based services, and coordinated community support. Anil Rajput, chairperson of the Foundation's advisory council, praised this year's Union Budget for prioritizing healthcare systems, expanding geriatric and mental healthcare, and building caregiver capacity. He noted that India's significant demographic transition has made it essential to ensure that longer lives are lived with dignity, independence, and good health. Dr A B Dey, founder and former head of the Department of Geriatric Medicine at AIIMS, highlighted the evolution of geriatric medicine from the margins to the mainstream of clinical practice. He emphasized that there is a growing demand for skilled geriatric care, far exceeding the available training and systems. Dr Rajinder K Dhamija, Director of the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences, emphasized the importance of coordinated, continuous, community-based, and compassionate geriatric care. The conference also discussed healthy ageing through early detection of cognitive decline, assistive AI technologies, nutrition, mental well-being, and fitness, with a focus on yoga for overall health and safety.
