The Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030)
Led by the World Health Organization (WHO), the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030) is a global, collaborative health campaign aimed at improving the lives of older people worldwide. The strategy involves a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international agencies, to foster healthier, longer lives. The central goal is to improve four key action areas for older populations.
Four Pillars of the Global Strategy
The Decade of Healthy Ageing operates on a multi-faceted strategy focusing on key areas that significantly impact older adults' quality of life and functional ability.
- Combating Ageism: This area works to change how people think, feel, and act toward age and ageing by challenging harmful stereotypes and discrimination. Efforts include public education, media campaigns, and advocating for legislation that promotes inclusion.
- Age-Friendly Environments: This pillar focuses on developing communities that foster the abilities of older people, ensuring they have universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces. This can include improvements to infrastructure, housing, and social inclusion.
- Integrated Care: The campaign strives to deliver person-centred integrated care and primary health services that are responsive to older people's specific needs. This involves coordinating services across different health and social care providers.
- Long-Term Care: This action area ensures older people who need it have access to quality long-term care. The WHO provides technical support to countries to assess and improve their long-term care systems.
U.S.-Specific Health Campaigns for Older Adults
In addition to global efforts, several campaigns focus on specific health issues for seniors within the United States. These national initiatives address prevalent challenges to promote independence and well-being.
CDC's "Still Going Strong" Campaign
One prominent U.S. campaign is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) "Still Going Strong," which focuses on injury prevention for adults aged 65 and older. The campaign aims to raise awareness among seniors and their caregivers about common injury risks, empowering them to take steps to remain independent and active without injury.
Key goals of "Still Going Strong" include:
- Educating on risk factors for falls and motor vehicle crashes.
- Empowering older adults with simple preventative steps.
- Maintaining social connectedness to support health.
- Encouraging engagement in lifelong activities.
Healthy People 2030: Objectives for Older Adults
Healthy People 2030 is a U.S. government initiative setting 10-year national objectives to improve the health and well-being of all people. Within this broad scope, a dedicated section focuses on older adults, addressing common chronic diseases, injuries, and health disparities. This initiative provides a framework for public health action across the country.
"Move Your Way" Physical Activity Campaign
The "Move Your Way" campaign, promoted by the U.S. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, specifically targets physical activity across all ages, with tailored materials for older adults. The resources help seniors understand the recommended amount and types of physical activity to prevent chronic diseases and injuries, including falls.
How Global and National Campaigns Differ
| Feature | UN Decade of Healthy Ageing | CDC's 'Still Going Strong' | Healthy People 2030 Objectives | Move Your Way Campaign |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope | Global (led by WHO) | National (U.S.) | National (U.S.) | National (U.S.) |
| Primary Focus | Holistic well-being, integrated care, combating ageism, age-friendly environments | Injury prevention (falls, crashes) | Broad health goals (chronic disease, falls, QoL) | Physical activity |
| Target Audience | Governments, civil society, older people, health professionals | Older adults (65+) and caregivers | Public health practitioners, policymakers, general public | General public, with resources for older adults |
| Initiative Type | Collaborative 10-year action plan | Focused public awareness campaign | Long-term national health framework | Promotional campaign for physical activity |
Practical Steps to Engage with Health Campaigns
For older adults, caregivers, and families, these campaigns provide a wealth of information and tools. Engaging with these resources can lead to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life. Here's how to get started:
- Visit Authoritative Sources: Regularly check the websites of the WHO, CDC, and Health.gov for the latest resources, fact sheets, and tools. For a comprehensive overview of the global initiative, visit the Decade of Healthy Ageing website.
- Stay Informed on Local Initiatives: Many communities participate in these campaigns by creating age-friendly cities or implementing fall prevention programs. Contact your local health department or senior center to see what programs are available.
- Promote Physical Activity: Use "Move Your Way" resources to find safe and appropriate exercises. Physical activity is a cornerstone of preventing chronic disease and maintaining independence.
- Educate Caregivers: If you are a caregiver, utilize campaign materials to educate yourself on safety protocols, injury prevention, and providing better-integrated care.
Conclusion: A Shift Towards Holistic Healthy Ageing
Health campaigns for older people represent a significant shift from focusing solely on treating diseases to promoting holistic well-being and maintaining functional ability throughout life. By addressing issues from ageism to injury prevention and access to care, these initiatives provide a comprehensive framework. Whether acting at a global, national, or local level, these concerted efforts aim to ensure every person has the opportunity to live a longer, healthier, and more dignified life.
