India's rapidly aging population presents a significant challenge to its healthcare system. Although celebrated today as a country of youngsters, India is on the verge of losing its demographic dividend within the next 25 to 30 years. According to ‘India Aging Report 2023’ published by International Institute for Population Sciences and United Nations Population Fund, the country’s population of above 60 years is expected to double from 10.5 percent in 2022 to 20.8 percent in 2050.
As life expectancy increases and the number of elderly individuals grows, there is a pressing need to address the gaps in the country's healthcare infrastructure. A serious challenge will be the limited reach and underdevelopment of healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas. As Jasdeep Singh, Group CEO, CARE Hospitals, points out that India's healthcare infrastructure faces shortages on all fronts. This includes a scarcity of “specialized hospitals, qualified healthcare professionals, long-term care homes, and rehabilitation centers for the elderly.” This lack of access to quality healthcare services can have severe consequences for the health and well-being of older individuals in the near future.
According to Amol R Deshmukh, Founder and CEO, MedRabbits Healthcare, “There’s a serious shortage of professionals who are trained to handle the specific needs of older patients. To meet the growing demand for geriatric care, it is essential to invest in training programs and create incentives for healthcare professionals to specialize in this field,” he says.
In addition to these challenges, there is also a need to improve the quality of healthcare services provided. Dr Sumana Y, Consultant Wellness Specialist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, highlights the importance of maintaining high standards of medical education and creating a conducive work environment for healthcare staff.
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