Public Health Challenges and Responses to the Growing Ageing Populations

Hafiz T. A. Khan; Kwaku Mari Addo; Helen Findlay

doi:10.1002/puh2.213

journal article Open Access Jul 21, 2024

Public Health Challenges and Responses to the Growing Ageing Populations

Hafiz T. A. Khan

Kwaku Mari Addo Helen Findlay

Public Health Challenges Vol. 3 No. 3 · Wiley

View at Publisher Save 10.1002/puh2.213

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackgroundHuman populations are rapidly ageing worldwide due to declining birth rates and rising life expectancies. This profound demographic shift presents complex public health challenges. Synthesizing evidence on key public health issues impacting ageing populations and policy strategies is required to address these needs.MethodsThe study employs narrative literature review based on the PubMed database. Data have been extracted on public health challenges to ageing populations and its recommended policy solutions.ResultsThe key public health challenges identified include rising chronic disease burden, risks for preventable multi‐morbidities and co‐morbidities, disability and dependencies, mental health issues, caregiving gaps, long‐term care system deficiencies, health inequities, healthcare access barriers, end‐of‐life care needs, financial instability, ageism/elder abuse, adverse built environments, climate/disaster threats, and social isolation. Evidence‐based policy responses span interventions in healthcare, social services, urban planning, emergency preparedness, economics, technology, anti‐ageism advocacy and so on.ConclusionsProactively addressing the array of public health challenges faced by rapidly growing ageing populations globally requires implementing collaborative, multisectoral policy solutions focused on promoting healthy, equitable, and socially engaged ageing. Healthcare systems, communities, and policies must be optimized to meet the needs of elderly people and tap into their strengths.

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Details

Published: Jul 21, 2024
Vol/Issue: 3(3)
License: View

Authors

H

Hafiz T. A. Khan

Public Health Group College of Nursing Midwifery and Healthcare University of West London London UK; Oxford Institute of Population Ageing University of Oxford Oxford UK

K

Kwaku Mari Addo

Ghana Ministry of Health Accra Ghana

H

Helen Findlay

Independent Researcher

Cite This Article

Hafiz T. A. Khan, Kwaku Mari Addo, Helen Findlay (2024). Public Health Challenges and Responses to the Growing Ageing Populations. Public Health Challenges, 3(3). https://doi.org/10.1002/puh2.213

Public Health Challenges and Responses to the Growing Ageing Populations

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