Aging

Aging populations demand action for healthy longevity.

By 2050, over 2.1 billion people will be aged 60 or older. Healthy aging requires system-wide adaptation—spanning health, urban design, social protection and beyond, while enabling older people to thrive and contribute.

Insights

Political: The demographic shift calls for urgent policy alignment across health, social care, transport, housing and urban planning, with an emphasis on age-friendly systems and rights-based frameworks to prevent elder abuse.

Economic: Global dementia costs reached $1.3 trillion (USD) in 2019, with half borne by unpaid caregivers. Investments in care infrastructure, fall prevention, and mental health support can yield long-term social and economic returns.

Social: Loneliness and social isolation undermine older adults’ mental health and dignity. Abuse affects 1 in 6 older people, highlighting deep systemic issues in both community and institutional settings.

Technological: Assistive technologies, smart homes, and digital health can support autonomy and safety, yet digital divides risk excluding those most in need unless addressed through inclusive design and training.

Legal: Strengthening protection requires legal reforms, enforcement, and accountability mechanisms, particularly in long-term care settings.

Environmental: Safer built environments—housing, public transport, and community spaces—reduce fall-related injuries, promote social inclusion, and support older adults’ independence.

Reflective Questions

• How might we reimagine cities, homes, and public services to become truly age-inclusive by design?

• What new care models could equitably support both aging populations and unpaid caregivers, particularly women?

• How can we embed dignity, autonomy, and social connection at the core of aging policies and health innovations?

Related Insight Cards

References:

World Health Organization, n.d. Ageing. Geneva: World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/health-topics/ageing

World Health Organization, 2024. Abuse of older people. Geneva: World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abuse-of-older-people

World Health Organization, 2021. Falls. Geneva: World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/falls

World Health Organization, 2023. Mental health of older adults. Geneva: World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-of-older-adults

World Health Organization, 2025. Dementia. Geneva: World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia