As South Asia’s population continues to age rapidly, the need for specialized geriatric care has never been more pressing. By 2050, the number of elderly individuals in the region is projected to exceed 300 million, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems that are often unprepared to handle the unique needs of older adults.
What is Geriatric Care?
Geriatric care focuses on addressing the health and wellness needs of elderly individuals. It includes preventive care, management of chronic conditions, palliative services, and end-of-life care. Unlike general healthcare, geriatric medicine requires an understanding of the aging process, how diseases affect older adults differently, and the socio-economic challenges they face.
The South Asian Context
In South Asia, awareness of specialized geriatric care remains limited. Most healthcare systems are still oriented toward general medicine, with a lack of focus on aging populations. Cultural factors also play a significant role in shaping the region’s healthcare needs, with family members often playing a central role in caring for the elderly.
Despite the growing elderly population, only a small percentage have access to the kind of compassionate, patient-centered care that can significantly improve their quality of life. This gap is where evidence-based research and innovations in geriatric medicine come into play.
Bridging the Gap
The South Asian Journal of Geriatric Medicine aims to bridge the gap between global best practices and local healthcare realities by providing healthcare professionals with the latest research, case studies, and practical insights. Our goal is to support the development of healthcare systems that can meet the unique needs of South Asia’s elderly population.
Looking Ahead
As the demand for geriatric care continues to rise, it’s essential for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to collaborate and share knowledge. Together, we can ensure that South Asia’s elderly population receives the compassionate, culturally sensitive care they deserve.