Public Health Global Conference

The Area of Aging and Public Health is focused on learning about and meeting the unique health needs of older adults by fostering healthy aging and ensuring quality of life throughout the aging process. As global life expectancy continues to rise, there is now a larger population of elderly individuals within populations at large, creating new health systems, social services, and community demands. Healthy aging is meant to raise health span-the time of life in which people are healthy, independent, and free from the burdens of serious illness or disability-beyond rises in life span.

Chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and dementia are more common among older persons. Preventive strategies rather than drug treatment may well serve as an approach to such conditions. Public health initiatives targeted specifically towards aging populations are as relevant to preventing these diseases as they are to reduce their complications. Promotional programs for encouraging physical activity, balanced nutrition, and social involvement may partly help counterbalance the risks posed by diseases in older adults. Mental health assistance is also a must because older adults are at higher risk for isolation, depression, and cognitive decline.

Another significant focus area of the two phenomena is what has been referred to as the social determinants influencing the health of older adults, including access to safe, affordable care and housing and transportation, and community systems supporting them. Policies and programs targeting the older adult population are designed to create an age-friendly environment where older adults can live safely with independence and manage their daily circumstances. Examples include redesigned public transportation or affordable housing, which may reduce injury risk and improve mobility.

Another very critical role of caregivers is that the family members and healthcare providers play a central role in their own well-being regarding an older adult. Public health efforts are resources, training, and respite care in place to support caregivers and reduce the stress of caregiver burdens, knowing the well-being of the caregivers is a part of patient care.

With rising healthcare, focusing on prevention, aging and public health is working toward ideal societies in which older adults can live fulfilling and active lives into old age. Addressing the complex needs of aged populations, public health is then trying to come up with a viable sustainable approach that balances compassion with healthy aging.