The saddest thing seen during the last month was in relation to relaxed Canadian euthanasia laws where one guy announced he was applying to kill himself, not because he was terminally ill, not because he wanted to but because he just couldn't survive any longer. Rather an indictment of society.
Aging policies should be a critical aspect of government and societal planning especially since populations around the world are aging due to increased life expectancy and declining birth rates coupled with AI taking more jobs and experts such as Dr. Yuval Harari forecasting the rise of the "useless people".
While the specific issues can vary by country and region, some common challenges and main issues in aging policies include:
- Financial Security: Many elderly individuals face financial insecurity in their retirement years. Issues include having inadequate pensions, low savings, and the rising cost of healthcare. Governments must consider how to ensure a stable and sufficient income for retirees.
- Healthcare: Aging populations often require more healthcare services which can strain healthcare systems and budgets. Policies need to address the healthcare needs of the elderly, including preventive care, long-term care, and access to affordable medications.
- Long-term Care: As people age, there is an increased need for long-term care, including nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Policies must address the availability, affordability, quality and empathy in delivery of these services.
- Elder Abuse: Protecting the elderly from abuse, neglect, and exploitation is a significant concern. Policies must include measures to prevent and respond to elder abuse, both within families and in institutional settings.
- Social Isolation: Aging can be associated with social isolation and loneliness, which can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health. Aging policies should support social programs that promote social engagement and community involvement.
- Age Discrimination: Discrimination against older individuals in employment, healthcare, and other areas can be a significant issue. Anti-age discrimination policies are necessary to ensure equal opportunities and treatment for older adults.
- Housing: Affordable and accessible housing is a concern for many elderly individuals. Policies should address housing options that cater to the needs of older adults, including modifications for accessibility.
- Transportation: Accessible and affordable transportation is crucial for the elderly to maintain independence and engage in community life. Policies must consider the unique transportation needs of older individuals.
- Elderly Caregivers: Many older adults serve as caregivers for their spouses or family members. Policies should support and provide resources for these caregivers, as caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding.
- Workforce Aging: The aging of the workforce can have economic implications, including potential skill shortages and changes in retirement age policies. Strategies to adapt to an aging workforce and ensure continued productivity are essential.
- Intergenerational Equity: Balancing the needs of different generations can be challenging. Policies must strive for fairness and intergenerational equity, ensuring that the burden of supporting older adults is distributed fairly among different age groups.
- Economic Impact: The demographic shift toward an aging population can impact economic growth, healthcare costs, and social welfare programs. Policies must consider the economic implications of an aging society and plan for sustainable solutions.
- Technology Access: Bridging the digital divide is essential for older adults to access information, services, and social connections. Policies should promote digital literacy and affordable access to technology for the elderly. Which brings us back to -
- End-of-Life Care: Policies should address end-of-life care, including advanced care planning, palliative care, and hospice services, to ensure that individuals receive appropriate care and support at the end of their lives all of which brings in the legal rules and moral implications for self termination.
What has to be recognised is how in addressing these issues in aging policies it requires a multidisciplinary approach involving governments, healthcare providers, social service organizations, and communities. Each cannot stand in its own despite the fact that the elephant in the room is that costs policies all have budget implications and there is the danger that those at the end of their working life have perhaps little to contribute to taxation and become a burden, hence policymakers must adapt to the unique needs and challenges presented by aging populations to promote the well-being and dignity of older adults. This really is not just one but the herd of elephants in the room, that of putting a value on the aging, utilising the contributions they can still make with their skills coupled with the psychological aspect recognising in each of us that we are all heading to older age so treat others as you would yourself - not to leave people wanting to die because they no longer stand to live...
