Here’s a comprehensive overview of elderly health in Nepal, segmented into two age groups: 65–75 years and 75+ years, integrating current data, policy frameworks, and health trends:

👵 Elderly Health in Nepal

📊 Demographics

  • Population aged 60+: Over 2.9 million (≈10.2% of Nepal’s population)
  • Life expectancy: ~71 years (men), ~73 years (women)
  • Rapid ageing: Driven by declining fertility and improved survival rates

🧓 Age Group: 65–75 Years

🩺 Common Health Conditions

  • Hypertension & cardiovascular disease
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Arthritis & musculoskeletal pain
  • Chronic respiratory conditions (COPD, asthma)
  • Early-stage dementia and memory loss

🧬 Social & Behavioral Factors

  • Many still active in farming or informal work
  • Often caregivers for grandchildren
  • Medication non-adherence common due to cost or lack of awareness

🏥 Health Services

  • Free basic care under Senior Citizens Health Facilities Fund
  • Limited geriatric specialists; primary care often insufficient
  • Mobile health units and outreach clinics expanding in rural zones

👴 Age Group: 75 Years and Above

🧠 Advanced Health Challenges

  • Multi-morbidity: Coexistence of 3+ chronic conditions
  • Dementia & Alzheimer’s disease: Increasing prevalence
  • Chronic kidney disease & stroke
  • Frailty, falls, and mobility loss
  • Depression, isolation, and grief

🧓 Social Vulnerabilities

  • Decline in traditional family caregiving due to migration
  • High dependency on pensions or social security
  • Risk of elder abuse and neglect

🏥 Systemic Gaps

  • <1,000 geriatric beds nationwide
  • No formal long-term care system
  • Lack of trained geriatric workforce and rehabilitation centers

🏛️ Policy & Strategic Framework

Government Initiatives

  • Senior Citizens Act (2063): Guarantees health rights and social protection
  • Geriatric Health Service Strategy (2021–2030):
    • Focus on healthy ageing, chronic disease management, and rehabilitation
    • Integration of geriatric care into primary health systems
    • Community-based support and resilience building

Institutional Support

  • NIAH Nepal: Leading research and mobile care for elderly
  • NHRC Pilot Studies: Mapping chronic illness and care gaps

 

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