Online Reporter
Disability Issues
Dr Christine Peta
THE United Nations (UN) Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030) represents a crucial global collaboration.
Aligned with the final decade of the Sustainable Development Goals, its mission is to enhance the lives of older people, their families and their communities worldwide.
Projections indicate a significant demographic shift: Between 2019 and 2030, the global population aged 60 and over is expected to surge by 38 percent, from 1 billion to 1,4 billion, ultimately outnumbering the youth. UN Women highlights a key aspect of this trend: Women generally live longer than men.
In 2020, women constituted 55 percent of the global population aged 65 and over, a figure that rises to approximately 62 percent for those aged 80 and above.
While many older adults may not identify as having disabilities, the reality is that physical or mental impairments linked to ageing often sees them being classified as persons with disabilities.
Individuals may enter old age with pre-existing disabilities that are compounded by natural ageing or they may acquire disabilities later in life due to accidents or physiological changes.
These age-related changes can include reduced muscle mass, bone density loss and decreased sensory function.
The prevalence of disabling conditions like arthritis, cardiovascular diseases and dementia rises significantly with age, firmly establishing the link between ageing and disability, and leading to a higher incidence of disabilities among older persons.
Let us take note of the following:
Mobility impairments: Challenges with mobility can limit an older person’s activity levels, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle.
This can result in muscle atrophy, increased body weight and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases. Reduced mobility often contributes to social isolation, depression and a decline in overall health.
Visual impairments: Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma or macular degeneration are common with ageing.
These impairments make it difficult for older persons to navigate their environment safely, increasing the risk of falls.
They can also lead to social withdrawal due to engagement difficulties and reduce the ability to perform daily activities independently.
Hearing loss: This is common among older persons. Hearing loss can exacerbate feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Communication difficulties may arise, impacting relationships and social interactions. Hearing impairments can also contribute to cognitive decline as social engagement and mental stimulation decrease due to communication barriers.
Cognitive decline: Conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease significantly affect memory, reasoning and the ability to perform everyday tasks.
Cognitive decline often accelerates with age, leading to increased dependence on caregivers, heightened vulnerability to mental health issues, social isolation and the need for long-term care.
Chronic health conditions: Disabilities associated with chronic health conditions (for example diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and arthritis) can complicate age-related changes, limiting functional abilities and requiring ongoing management. Additional challenges include a higher incidence of comorbidities, increased healthcare costs and a potential for decreased life expectancy.
Mental health impairments: Older persons with conditions such as depression or anxiety may experience a decline in overall well-being and motivation to engage in activities that promote physical health.
Untreated mental impairments can lead to cognitive decline, difficulty in social interactions and an increased risk of physical health issues.
Way forward
Addressing the intersection of ageing and disability requires a multi-faceted approach.
Tailored interventions that enhance mobility, strength and overall physical capacity can significantly improve quality of life.
Providing assistive devices such as hearing aids, mobility scooters, wheelchairs, crutches or visual aids can greatly improve independence and quality of life for older persons with disabilities.
Modifying living spaces to ensure safety and accessibility helps older persons with disabilities navigate their homes and communities more easily.
Encouraging social engagement and community involvement is crucial to alleviate feelings of isolation and promote mental well-being. Regular check-ups and tailored healthcare plans are essential to address the unique needs of older persons with disabilities, ensuring the continued management of their conditions.
Developing and implementing policies and programmes that specifically address the needs of older persons with disabilities is vital for fostering inclusive and supportive communities.
By recognising the strong link between ageing and disability, we can work towards a future where older persons can live healthy, dignified and fulfilling lives.
Dr Christine Peta is a disability, public health, policy, international development and research expert. She can be contacted on: [email protected]
Online Reporter