The World Health Organization (WHO) defines healthy ageing as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables wellbeing in older age.”The WHO has also recognized adult immunization as one of the strategies for healthy ageing in their ‘Decade of Healthy Ageing – Baseline Report -2020’.
The Indian population is ageing rapidly, with 404 million people above 50 years of age expected to increase to 404 million in 2036. This increases the risk of infectious diseases such as pneumonia, influenza, and shingles, which can be debilitating for ageing adults.
Shingles is a viral disease that causes a painful rash, similar to labour pain, and can interfere with daily activities and increase dependence on caregivers. Dr.Bhabani Prasad Chakravarty, a Rheumatologist practising at Dr.Bhabani Prasad Chakravarty clinic, Guwahati says, “I see 350-400 patients of 50 years and above every month, and I recommend them to get the necessary vaccinations to encourage healthy ageing.”Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes contribute to India’s disease burden, leading to increased hospitalisation and increased risk of stroke.
