Living into old age is a gift—one not everyone gets the chance to embrace. As life expectancy rises,thanks to advancements in healthcare and healthier lifestyles,more peopel are experiencing the joys and challenges of aging. However, with age comes a natural decline in immune function, making it crucial to prioritize health and productivity throughout one’s later years.
Our world is shaped by rapid technological progress, especially in health sciences. Yet, it’s also facing hurdles like the consumption of processed foods laden with preservatives, which, if unchecked, can harm health. Climate change further complicates this by threatening communities, especially vulnerable groups and the elderly. On top of this, many developing nations still grapple with limited health infrastructure.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global population aged 60 and above is expected to hit 901 million by 2022, 1.4 billion by 2030, and 2.1 billion by 2050. This growth, unprecedented in history, is set to accelerate, particularly in developing regions. To tackle these challenges—from life expectancy threats to infrastructure gaps—social and family advancement programs are being championed worldwide.
One such initiative is the global social welfare and health community development program, a key agenda item for 2030. While these efforts aim to benefit all age groups, including the elderly, disparities in prosperity across nations call for further measures to sustain progress in life expectancy and ensure a thriving aging population.
In Indonesia, the commitment to this cause has deepened. From the establishment of the National Family Planning Coordinating Agency (BKKBN) in 1970 to the creation of the Ministry of Population and Family Development in 2024, the nation has integrated its efforts through a Penta Helix approach, fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
Indonesia’s initiatives align with global objectives, emphasizing the value of an aging population. Through programs like Community-Based programs for the Elderly, the country encourages seniors to stay active and engaged, sharing their wisdom and skills with their communities. This approach has proven effective in keeping older individuals involved, healthy, and empowered.
Another notable effort is Indonesia’s collaboration with Southeast Asian nations, developing frameworks to promote active participation among the elderly. This aligns with Islamic cultural values,which emphasize deep respect for older individuals.
These programs resonate with the mission of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), established in December 1973 during its Finance Ministers’ Meeting in Jeddah. The OIC’s Islamic Development Bank, headquartered in Jeddah, was created to boost social welfare among member nations. In 2016, the bank opened its Hub Office in Indonesia, further cementing its role in supporting these initiatives.
Indonesia’s dedication to enhancing elderly welfare and health is not just a national endeavor—it’s a step toward global prosperity. by fostering programs that empower the aging population, the country ensures that seniors remain an integral, valuable part of society, passing on their rich experiences for generations to come.
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