Adapting all sectors to the aging population

Asst. Prof. Dr. Refiye Akpolat,  a faculty member in the Department of Nursing of Faculty of Health Sciences of Cyprus International University (CIU) stated that the elderly population is rapidly increasing all over the world and said, “The increase in the elderly population affects the social security systems and economies of the states. For this reason, it is important for every country to carry out a well-planned study on this issue."
 
Akpolat, speaking within the scope of October 1st  International Day of Older Persons
said that approximately 10% of the world population, which is approaching 8 billion, consists of individuals over the age of 60, and according to the World Health Organization (WHO) data, the number of people over the age of 65 is expected to reach 1.5 billion by 2050. 

Pointing out that the elderly population is expected to constitute 22 percent of the world's population by 2050, Akpolat shared the information that there are around 30 thousand people over the age of 65 living in the TRNC.

Akpolat reminded that some societies invest in healthy aging, and noted that this enables elderly individuals to lead a longer and healthier life.

Speaking about the global strategies as well as action plans of the United Nations and WHO regarding aging and health, Akpolat said that these plans aim to  change ideas, feelings and behaviors regarding age and aging, ensure that communities develop the skills of older people, provide sensitive, individual-centered integrated care for older people, and provide basic health services and access to long-term care for the elderly in need. 

Akpolat pointed out that there are things that need to be done within the country as well, and said, "It is important that we adapt all sectors such as health and social care, transportation, housing and urban planning to the elderly population."

Stating that every person should have the right and opportunity to a long and healthy life, Akpolat concluded by saying that the elderly are the most valuable beings who create a bridge between the past and the future and carry on culture and values to the future.