Abhinav Vitthalrao Pathare's research illuminates the need for enhanced support systems for older adults in India.
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India is experiencing a significant change in its demographics, with a rapid rise in the number of older adults. This puts the nation at a critical point in determining the future well-being of this demographic. Abhinav Vitthalrao Pathare, an Indian public health researcher, is an essential voice in the field, bringing attention to the urgent issues the ageing population faces.
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In his recent research article, "Improving support for older adults in India: A multi-faceted approach for a better future," Abhinav highlights various immediate issues. The research article has been published in the International Journal of Paediatrics and Geriatrics, and a link to it is provided at the end of this news. The research article emphasises the need to enhance existing support systems and stresses the importance of creating comprehensive solutions for older adults in India.
India's ageing population: Public health implications:
India is currently undergoing a significant demographic shift with an increase in its older adults. United Nations projections suggest India may become the world's most populous country in 2023, surpassing China. From 1991 to 2016, the percentage of older adults in India's overall population ascended from 6.8% to 9.2%, and it is expected to reach 14.9% by 2036. This demographic shift presents various public health challenges that require immediate attention and multi-faceted solutions.
Complex health challenges faced by older adults:
India is facing numerous health challenges for its ageing population. These challenges are complex and affect older adults in various ways. Non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular ailments, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disorders, and mental health issues are common among them. Older adults also face psychological health concerns, cognitive decline, functional limitations, financial constraints, and social restrictions. Addressing these issues with comprehensive and specialised care is essential to ensure older adults' well-being and quality of life.
Improving access to government programs:
The Government of India has introduced several schemes and initiatives to aid senior citizens. Although these initiatives are commendable, Abhinav's research has revealed certain shortcomings that need to be addressed. For example, the eligibility criteria for government schemes and initiatives, based on Below Poverty Line (BPL) status, may result in deserving individuals not being included in the program. Additionally, complex formalities involved in accessing the schemes hamper their effectiveness.
A comprehensive path forward: According to Abhinav's research, it is crucial to take a multi-faceted approach to tackle the challenges that older adults in India face. To make government schemes more effective and inclusive, eligibility criteria should be reviewed, formalities should be simplified, and financial assistance should be regularly adjusted. In addition, a Whole System Approach that encourages collaboration between diverse government departments, healthcare professionals, and relevant stakeholders can offer integrated and coordinated care. A Whole System Approach not only focuses on preventing diseases but prioritises promoting health and well-being.
Advocating collaborative research and age-friendly infrastructures:
To comprehensively improve the health and well-being of older adults, it is essential to conduct collaborative research across various disciplines. Age-friendly infrastructures, specialised workforce development, and community-based services are equally crucial in providing older adults with tailored and holistic care. Abhinav's research article promotes evidence-based policymaking and preventive interventions to address the diverse needs of India's ageing population.
Empowering India's older adults:
To summarise, the research article by Abhinav emphasises the importance of focusing on the health and well-being of India's ageing population. The percentage of older adults in the Indian population is increasing significantly; therefore, researchers, policymakers, healthcare providers, and society as a whole must prioritise creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. By implementing effective solutions and valuing the knowledge and experiences of older adults, India can enable its ageing population to have a satisfying life while maintaining their dignity and quality of life.
This news article is a broader overview of the importance of Abhinav Vitthalrao Pathare's recently published research article and the significance of addressing the challenges faced by India's ageing population. The actual research article is more detailed and includes additional insights, perspectives, and data supported with reliable references. The graphical abstract of the research article is as follows:
About Abhinav Vitthalrao Pathare:
Abhinav V Pathare is a public health researcher from India. He obtained a Master of Science in Applied Public Health from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), England, in 2020 with a merit classification. Currently, he works as the Principal Investigator at Public Health India (PHI), an Indian research organisation.
He has written numerous scientific pieces on various topics related to public health. These include promoting protein and healthy fat intake in public health dietary guidelines, reducing population-level sugar and refined carbohydrate consumption, physical activity, and addressing obesity and associated disorders.
He is interested in advancing the health and well-being of older adults by concentrating on their eating behaviours. He aims to help create well-informed and optimised programs, interventions, policies, strategies, and communication techniques that positively impact the well-being of older adults. He can be contacted at [email protected]. He is also available on ResearchGate, Google Scholar, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
Abhinav's full research article link: https://www.paediatricjournal.com/article/view/206/6-1-20
