ISLAMABAD:
Caring for the elderly in Pakistan is a critical concern, given the prevalent challenges of limited health services and insufficient housing options. The aging population in the country faces a complex landscape where the existing support structures often fall short of meeting their needs.
One of the primary issues is the lack of health services catering to the specific requirements of the elderly. Many seniors struggle to access affordable medical care, essential for maintaining their overall well-being. Preventive healthcare, regular check-ups and mental health support are crucial components that demand attention and investment to ensure a dignified and healthy life during old age. Housing options for seniors is another pressing challenge. The current housing landscape lacks sufficient accommodations that address accessibility issues such as long flights of stairs. Many older residents find that these inconveniences affect their overall quality of life.
To address these issues, it is necessary for the government to prioritise and invest in comprehensive elderly care programs. Developing personalised health services tailored to the unique needs of seniors should be a priority, ensuring accessibility and affordability.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 25th, 2023.
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