11 tips to manage health and well-being of your parents

As of today, the number of individuals aged 60 and above in India is estimated to be around 150 million, representing slightly over 10 percent of the country’s total population. Projections indicate that this figure will escalate to 230 million within the next 10–12 years.
By 2050, the UN Population Fund forecasts that elderly individuals will constitute 20.8% of India’s population, signalling a significant shift from a historically youthful demographic to an older one and even surpassing the population of children aged 0–15 by 2046. This demographic transformation highlights the critical need for comprehensive strategies to effectively manage the health and well-being of the ageing population.
Managing the health and well-being of our parents or of the elder population requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that addresses the complex and interconnected physical, cognitive and psychosocial needs of older adults. As individuals age, they often face multiple chronic conditions, functional limitations and increased vulnerability to various health issues therefore, effective management strategies must be tailored to the unique challenges and requirements of this demographic.
 
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said, “A cornerstone of elder care is the implementation of regular, comprehensive geriatric assessments. These evaluations should encompass physical health, cognitive function, mental health, functional status and social support systems. By identifying potential issues early, healthcare providers can develop proactive interventions and personalised care plans.” He elaborated –
Bringing her expertise to the same, Sama Beg, Chief Product Officer at Emoha, shared, “From a clinical standpoint, the emphasis must be on developing age-appropriate healthcare services that cater specifically to the elderly. This involves not only expanding geriatric care but also integrating chronic disease management into primary healthcare systems. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis require continuous care, which can be managed through regular screenings and personalised treatment plans. Furthermore, training healthcare professionals in geriatric care ensures that the elderly receive care that is both empathetic and effective.”

Citing the United Nations Population Fund’s India Ageing Report 2023 that highlights the critical need for more affordable and accessible healthcare solutions, Sama Beg suggested –
Sama Beg summed up, “By embracing a holistic approach that spans clinical, healthcare, elder care and caregiving perspectives, India can truly honour the golden years of its ageing population. As we advance, it becomes crucial for every segment of society—from government bodies to the private sector and grassroots organisations—to join hands in crafting an environment that enhances the dignity, health and joy of our elderly. This collaborative effort will not only address the challenges but will celebrate the wisdom and life experiences of our seniors, fostering a more inclusive and loving society that values every stage of life.”
By adopting a holistic, patient-centered approach that addresses these various aspects of health and well-being, healthcare providers can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for the elder population.