The nation is witnessing a steady increase in life expectancy among the elderly population. This, at the same time is increasing the burden of non-communicable diseases in this age group, bringing about significant additional demands on health services, says experts.
According to figures obtained from the WHO, currently, 7.4% of the total population in India is elderly. It is projected that the population aged 60 years and above will grow from 77 million (7.4% of the total population) to 300 million (17%) by 2050, stated Dr. Nata Menabde, WHO representative to India.
Dr Nata told Deccan Chronicle, “It is not just adding years to life but more importantly, to ensure that they have productive lives. Healthy ageing starts from the mother's womb itself, and by the time you reach 60, you are still healthy and able to support yourself."
As per the registration made with the State Department for the Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens, as on February 2012, Karnataka has 7,82,427 senior citizens above 65 years of age, of which 1,84,617 are from Bangalore alone. The figures have been derived as per the number of senior citizens' cards issued by state government.
Meanwhile, geriatric departments across city hospitals are witnessing an increase in the number of elderly patients. Dr Indu K. Nair, HOD, General Medicine, Baptist Hospital said, “On an average, we get about 40-45 elderly patients every day. Diabetes, hypertensions and blurred vision are a few among their major complaints.”