World Senior Citizen's Day: Digital era requires robust health and social systems

The World Senior Citizen's Day (21 August; since 1991) is being observed amid the hard and testing time of the  of digital era wherein social isolation is growing a a rapid speed

  According to medical experts and social scientists, the digital era  has affected adversely the elderly people in many ways. If one has a deeper look,  there is an increase ind the elder abuse, women abuse and child abuse to make elderly people most venerable. The wellbeing and social support required through aging process has further waned for the last two decades

According to the WHO some the Key facts regarding aging population are as follows:

• Between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world's population over 60 years will nearly double from 12% to 22%.

• By 2020, the number of people aged 60 years and older will outnumber children younger than 5 years.

• In 2050, 80% of older people will be living in low- and middle-income countries.

• The pace of population ageing is much faster than in the past.

Consequently, all countries in the world are facing 'major challenges to ensure that their health and social systems are ready to make the most of this demographic shift,' reports the WHO. "A significant proportion of the diversity in older age is due to the cumulative impact of these health inequities across the life course. Public health policy must be crafted to reduce, rather than reinforce, these inequities," it adds on its website.

WHO has suggested a five-pronged global strategy to deal with aging population consisting of commitment to healthy ageing; aligning health systems with the needs of older populations; developing systems for providing long-term care; creating age-friendly environments along with improving measurement and monitoring and understanding about aging.

Wise individuals suggest that spirituality can greatly benefit elderly people, as it offers profound inner peace, emotional resilience, and a sense of purpose. It aids older adults in gracefully navigating health challenges, loss, and the transitions that come with aging, instilling hope.

Research shows that practices like prayer, meditation, and quiet reflection can soothe the mind and alleviate anxiety. Many yoga, meditation, and faith-based communities provide seniors with a friendly environment to engage with others.

Additionally, having faith in a higher power or a universal order can transform the later years into a time of significance rather than emptiness, fostering existential strength.

Additionally, it's important to recognize that andragogy, or self-directed learning, is well-suited for older adults, enabling them to select their own pace and areas of interest. This approach is also effective for applying knowledge to address practical, real-world challenges by leveraging their previous experiences. In reality, seniors benefit from a respectful facilitation style, viewing the instructor more as a guide or collaborator instead of a strict authority figure.