EVERY society is measured not only by how it cares for its children, but also by how it respects and protects its older citizens. As Pakistan observes World Senior Citizen Day on 21 August, we have an opportunity to reflect on the health, dignity and well-being of the people who spent much of their lives building our families, communities, institutions and nation.
Ageing is a natural part of life, not a disease. Older people possess experience, knowledge, cultural traditions and wisdom that remain valuable to families and society. However, increasing life expectancy also brings new health and social challenges. Pakistan must therefore begin treating healthy ageing as an important component of its public health agenda.
Older people are more likely to experience chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, visual and hearing impairment and other age-related problems. Many also face difficulties related to mobility, loneliness, depression, financial insecurity and access to healthcare. These challenges can become particularly difficult when older people live alone or depend entirely on family members.
The solution is not simply to build more hospitals. Pakistan needs to strengthen preventive and primary healthcare for older people. Regular screening for blood pressure, diabetes, vision problems, hearing impairment, nutritional deficiencies and common cancers can help identify health problems earlier. Primary healthcare facilities should become more age-friendly, with healthcare workers trained to understand the specific needs of older patients.
Physical activity is equally important. Walking, appropriate exercise, stretching and other safe forms of physical activity can help older people maintain mobility, strength, independence and mental well-being. Communities should therefore provide safe parks, walking spaces and recreational opportunities that are accessible to older citizens.
Nutrition also deserves greater attention. Older people need balanced diets, adequate protein, essential micronutrients and sufficient hydration. Families should ensure that elderly members are not neglected during household food distribution or medical decision-making.
Mental health is another frequently overlooked dimension of ageing. Loneliness, bereavement, social isolation and loss of independence can affect emotional well-being. Families should maintain meaningful communication with older relatives and encourage their participation in family and community activities. Respect and companionship can sometimes be as important as medicine.
Pakistan’s healthcare system should also promote healthy ageing at the community level. Lady Health Workers, primary healthcare teams, community organizations and local governments can help identify vulnerable older people, encourage preventive check-ups, promote healthy lifestyles and facilitate access to appropriate services.
Most importantly, older people should not be viewed only as recipients of care. Many remain active contributors to society as teachers, mentors, caregivers, community leaders, professionals and volunteers. Their experience can guide younger generations and strengthen social cohesion.
On World Senior Citizen Day, let us make a commitment that growing older in Pakistan should not mean becoming invisible. Every older person deserves healthcare, respect, security, companionship and dignity.
A healthy Pakistan must include people of every age. If we want to build a stronger future, we must honour those who helped build our past. Caring for our senior citizens is not merely a social responsibility—it is a measure of our humanity and a commitment to a healthier Pakistan.
—The writer is public health consultant, based in Islamabad.
