Brazzaville, Congo, 7 April 2012
The theme for World Health Day in 2012 is Ageing and Health, with the slogan: Good health adds life to years. Ageing is a natural process that requires physical, mental and social preparation. Ageing concerns each and everyone of us and has become a major challenge in the 21st century because we have to respond to an increasing demand for health services. In the last century, life expectancy in the world increased considerably. The African Region has witnessed a rapidly increasing number of elderly persons aged 60 years and above since 1985.
Elderly challenges are related to the changes in the social, political and economic conditions of society. There are changes in today’s family patterns, which is characterized by the migration of young people from rural areas to urban areas or to other countries in search of better opportunities. This development leaves the elderly in the rural areas alone. Furthermore, the unpredictable weather patterns which contribute to reduced food production lead to poor nutrition among vulnerable population specifically children and the elderly. Our Region is prone to disasters, both natural and man-made, and these disasters have direct impact on the health and well-being of elderly populations. Furthermore, increased life expectancy augments the risk of chronic diseases and disability.
Negative perceptions of society about the elderly often contribute to their neglect and sometimes ill treatment. Yet, elderly people can contribute to the development of countries only if they are healthy, hence the need to adopt good policies on ageing. The elderly, in Africa have always been revered as the source of wisdom and guardians of beneficial cultural practices, family unity and identity. They continue to play a pivotal role in the care and support of children. In return, the young and adults take care of the elderly as part of the African extended family. This reciprocal relationship of care and support between the elderly and young is a hallmark and should be promoted as a key component of achieving healthy ageing.
Growing old and being in good health requires the adoption of healthy lifestyles throughout a person’s lifespan. There is abundant knowledge on how to promote healthy lifestyles across population groups, such as healthy diet, regular exercise, non-use of tobacco, and refraining from harmful use of alcohol. Governments and communities must be more involved in promoting healthy ageing. The private sector has a role to play, for example, by ensuring that products that improve the quality of life of the elderly are available, affordable and accessible. Bilateral and multilateral cooperation partners should also include healthy ageing in their agenda.
The World Health Organization reminds you today that good health adds life to years.
Thank you.