Crucial to recognize the value of specialized care addressing medical, emotional and social aspects of aging: Dr. Meenal Thakral
- Artemis Hospitals hosts a meet to mark grandparents’ day and raise awareness about Geriatric Care
- we aim to enhance the quality of life for our senior population: Dr. Devlina Chakravarty
New Delhi, 6th September 2024; Artemis Hospitals hosted an insightful Meet & Greet session and press meet with Dr. Meenal Thakral, a distinguished specialist in Geriatric Medicine, to highlight the critical importance of geriatric care to mark Grandparents’ Day which is on 8th September. With this year’s theme, “Do not cast me off in my old age,” the meet aimed to draw attention to the growing need for specialized care for older adults.
Geriatric medicine, a specialty dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care for the elderly, addresses a wide array of physical, mental, functional, and social conditions. As the population of older adults continues to rise—projected to reach 20.8% by 2050—there is an increasing necessity for expertise in this field. In Haryana and Delhi, the elderly population is expected to grow from 9% to 14% between 2021 and 2036, according to the Indian Ageing Report 2023.
Dr. Meenal Thakral (Classified Specialist – Geriatric Medicine, Artemis Hospitals) shared her insights on the importance of geriatric care: “The needs of older adults are unique and multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive and empathetic approach. As we celebrate Grandparents’ Day, it’s crucial to recognize the value of specialized care that addresses not only medical but also emotional and social aspects of aging. Our goal is to ensure that every senior receives the care and dignity they deserve.”
The Longitudinal Ageing Study of India (LASI) 2021 report underscores the urgent need for geriatric medicine, revealing that 75% of the elderly suffer from chronic diseases, and a significant portion faces limitations in daily activities and social engagement. The report also highlights gaps in awareness about available welfare support, with many elderly individuals lacking adequate health insurance and pension coverage.
Dr. Devlina Chakravarty, (MD, Artemis Hospitals), emphasized the hospital’s commitment to addressing these challenges: “At Artemis Hospitals, we are dedicated to advancing geriatric care through innovative approaches and comprehensive support. Our focus is on providing holistic care that encompasses physical health, cognitive support, and emotional well-being. By raising awareness and improving access to specialized services, we aim to enhance the quality of life for our senior population.”
Addressing the multifaceted challenges in geriatric care is crucial to creating a robust support system for older adults. One significant issue is the hidden crisis of polypharmacy, where managing multiple medications becomes increasingly complex and potentially hazardous. Equally pressing is the need for effective end-of-life care, ensuring that the journey from home to hospice is managed with dignity and comfort.
Technology plays a transformative role in this landscape, with tech-savvy solutions offering innovative ways to enhance geriatric care. Yet, we must also confront the alarming rates of senior falls and work diligently to implement preventive measures. Loneliness and social isolation among seniors further complicate their well-being, highlighting the necessity for improved social support systems. Additionally, caregiver burnout remains a critical concern, shedding light on the often-overlooked struggles of family caregivers.
Breaking the stigma around dementia and cognitive health is essential for fostering understanding and support, while addressing disparities in geriatric care is vital for ensuring equitable health outcomes. Looking ahead, the future of aging promises innovations that could significantly improve care, but achieving this requires a concerted effort to empower older adults with dignity and independence.