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UPSC Mains 2022

The increase in life expectancy in the country has led to newer health challenges in the community. What are those challenges and what steps need to be taken to meet them?

General Studies Paper - 3, Topic: Geriatric Care

Dec 30, 2022

1 min read

An increase in life expectancy can lead to a number of new health challenges in a community, including:

 

1. Age-related chronic diseases: As people age, they may be more likely to develop chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. These conditions can require ongoing medical care and can significantly impact quality of life.

 

2. Mental health issues: Older adults may be more prone to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

 

3. Dementia and cognitive decline: The risk of developing dementia and other forms of cognitive decline increases with age. This can lead to challenges in caring for older adults and can place a burden on caregivers.

 

To meet these challenges, it is important for governments and healthcare providers to adopt a holistic approach that addresses the physical, mental, and social needs of older adults. This could include investing in preventative healthcare and promoting healthy lifestyles, providing access to mental health services and support for caregivers, and developing and implementing policies and programs to support aging in place and improve the quality of life for older adults.

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