POLICY BRIEF

Promoting Healthy Aging Aligned
with WHO and Global Health Goals

Population aging is a defining global trend, with the number of people aged 60 and older expected to reach 2.1 billion by 2050. Ensuring that aging populations remain healthy, active, and engaged is essential for sustainable development. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes healthy aging as a priority, defining it as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables well-being in older age.” The WHO’s Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030) and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which seeks to “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages,” underscore the need for comprehensive approaches to aging that encompass healthcare, social inclusion, and economic security. Healthy aging is not just about preventing disease but also about fostering environments that enable older adults to live independently and with dignity. This Fast-Track Health policy brief highlights best practices through five case studies, discusses challenges and opportunities, and provides actionable recommendations for municipal, national, and regional health authorities.

Integrated Elderly Care in Japan: Japan, with one of the world’s oldest populations, has developed an integrated Community-Based Integrated Care System that provides coordinated health, social, and long-term care services for older adults. The system enables older individuals to access medical care, home-based services, and social support within their communities. The approach has improved quality of life, reduced hospitalizations, and strengthened intergenerational support systems. Japan’s model highlights the importance of integrated care in supporting healthy aging. (WHO Western Pacific Region, 2023)

Age Friendly Cities in Canada: Canada has been a leader in implementing age-friendly city initiatives, which ensure that urban environments support older residents’ mobility, safety, and social engagement. Cities such as Toronto and Vancouver have adapted public transportation, expanded green spaces, and developed community programs to reduce social isolation. Research has shown that age-friendly urban planning improves mental and physical well-being among older adults. Canada’s experience demonstrates the role of local governance in fostering age-inclusive communities. (Journal of Aging & Social Policy, 2023)

Digital Health for Aging in South Korea: South Korea has leveraged digital health technologies to support aging populations, including AI-powered telemedicine, wearable health monitoring devices, and digital literacy programs for older adults. These initiatives have improved chronic disease management, enhanced independence, and reduced healthcare costs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth services ensured continuity of care for older adults. South Korea’s experience underscores the potential of technology in enabling healthy aging. (BMJ Open, 2023)

Universal Long-Term Care Insurance in Germany: Germany introduced mandatory long-term care insurance to provide financial protection and access to home- and facility-based care for older adults. The system allows individuals to receive tailored care services based on their level of need, ensuring affordability and reducing family caregiving burdens. The program has increased independence among older adults and improved workforce participation among informal caregivers. Germany’s model highlights the importance of financial sustainability in long-term care. (The Lancet Public Health, 2023)

Community-Based Active Aging in Brazil: Brazil’s Academia da Cidade (City Gym) program promotes active aging by providing free, community-based exercise programs for older adults. These programs, offered in public parks and community centers, focus on physical activity, social engagement, and mental well-being. Evaluations have shown significant reductions in rates of hypertension and depression among participants. Brazil’s model demonstrates the role of social infrastructure in promoting healthy aging. (The Lancet Global Health, 2023)

Healthy aging faces several structural and societal challenges. Many healthcare systems remain focused on acute care rather than preventive and long-term care strategies, leading to inadequate support for chronic disease management and functional decline. Economic disparities limit access to health services, social programs, and assistive technologies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The caregiving burden on families, particularly women, is significant, as many countries lack adequate support systems for caregivers. Ageism remains pervasive, affecting older adults’ participation in the workforce, healthcare, and social life. Rapid urbanization has led to environmental and infrastructure barriers, such as inaccessible housing and transportation, which can isolate older adults. Additionally, public health emergencies, including pandemics, disproportionately impact older populations, highlighting the need for resilient health systems and emergency preparedness.

Despite these challenges, significant opportunities exist to promote healthy aging. Expanding Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to include geriatric care, rehabilitation, and preventive services can ensure equitable access to essential health interventions. Intergenerational programs, such as community mentorship initiatives, can reduce social isolation while fostering knowledge exchange between younger and older populations. Digital health innovations, including telemedicine, wearable devices, and AI-assisted home care, provide scalable solutions for monitoring and supporting older adults. Investments in age-friendly urban planning, as seen in Canada, can improve mobility, safety, and social participation. Workforce strategies that train and retain geriatric specialists and home care providers can strengthen healthcare capacity. Policy efforts that address financial security in aging, such as long-term care insurance or social pensions, can reduce economic burdens on older adults and caregivers. Integrating healthy aging into climate adaptation policies can also ensure that older populations are considered in disaster preparedness and environmental planning.