For the first time in human history, the world will soon have more older people than children.
By mid-century, 2 billion men and women will be over 60 years old. Sounds scary? Not really.
You might think,
Older people can’t take care of themselves.
Older people can’t do new things at work (or play)
Older people are no longer attractive,
Older people should accept illness as part of ageing
The world is changing.
Stereotypes hold us back.
So what can we do about this?
a) Start early with healthy habits
Whenever I see kids playing basketball, my fingers itch to grab the ball and join them in the game. But the fact is that I know I won’t be able to keep up for more than 2 minutes on the court. The reason? Somewhere along the way I gave up playing basketball and as a result my stamina is not the same. But I know of a senior in our organisation who retired last year at the age of sixty. He played five days a week after office hours and was still coaching the youngsters when he retired. I would call that as developing a healthy habit and sticking to it.
b) Value their contribution to the society.
Their contribution may be a small one but value and appreciate it. There is nothing better to boost their morale.
c) Keep older people at the heart of the family and community
d) Provide good affordable health care.
This is not just about living longer, but living better and with a more productive life.
All this may sound preachy but I was impressed by this small 1.5 minute video with appropriate pictures. In fact they have used only 16 pictures to hit home the message, and what a wonderful job by UNTV-WHO.
I was also impressed by the music in the movie.
Everyone benefits in societies where older people thrive.
Good health adds life to years.
