India’s elderly population is projected to reach 319 million, or 19.5 per cent of the country’s total population, by 2050. Given their growing numbers and rising medical costs, providing adequate healthcare has been a major challenge. According to a study by the Longitudinal Ageing Study of India (LASI) in 2021, 75 per cent of older people in India suffer from one or more chronic diseases, with only 18 per cent of them having health insurance coverage.

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Another report by Niti Aayog, the government’s autonomous planning body, in February 2024 showed that 70 per cent of India’s elderly population do not have a pension, and 78 per cent depend on others for daily expenses.

Dr G.P. Bhagat, Founder of SHEOWS, an old-age home in Delhi, citing a study by the Indian Council of Medical Research, states that “23 out of 100 males have several diseases, over 27 per cent of women have more than two (diseases). In rural areas, 21 out of every 100 people suffer from multiple chronic diseases, whereas in urban areas, the incidence rate is 35.”

Their common diseases include arthritis, cognitive, mental, and respiratory illnesses, etc. The situation is worsening due to a shortage of geriatric specialists, expensive treatments, and the lack of awareness regarding the prevention and management of diseases. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), more than three-quarters or 77 per cent of deaths in low and middle-income countries are due to heart and respiratory diseases, cancers, and diabetes. Chronic diseases are non-communicable diseases that can last a few months to several years and require regular care. WHO states that chronic disease could result from a “combination of genetic, physiological, environmental and behavioural factors”.

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Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Here are some preventive measures seniors can take to avoid chronic diseases.

Eat a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet comprising fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat and low-sugar products can help prevent many diseases, such as heart ailments and diabetes.

Stay Physically And Mentally Fit: Sedentary lifestyles can devastate your health. Doctors suggest that staying physically active can help avoid, delay, and manage chronic diseases. Brisk walking, running, and push-ups can keep your muscles strong. Also, staying socially active, playing memory games, etc., can help improve your mental health.

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Quit Smoking: Smoking can cause respiratory diseases and cancer. It reduces stamina and weakens the body’s capacity to combat diseases. Health insurers also charge higher premiums to smokers. So quit smoking to live a healthy life.

Reduce Alcohol Intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can cause cancer, high blood pressure, liver problems, etc. So, reduce the alcohol intake if not completely stop.

Monitor Health Regularly: Do regular health check-ups for monitoring all vital organs of the body. Consult a doctor if you observe any deviation.

Don’t Ignore Sleep: Adequate sleep can help you stay mentally and physically fit. Insufficient sleep may cause obesity and depression.

Avoid Air Pollution: Air pollution can cause respiratory disease in elderly people, particularly during winter. It is better to stay home when the air pollution level is high outside.