EVERY society is measured not only by how it cares for its children, but also by how it respects and protects its older citizens. As Pakistan observes World Senior Citizen Day on 21 August, we have an opportunity to reflect on the health, dignity and well-being of the people who spent much of their lives building our families, communities, institutions and nation.

Ageing is a natural part of life, not a disease. Older people possess experience, knowledge, cultural traditions and wisdom that remain valuable to families and society. However, increasing life expectancy also brings new health and social challenges. Pakistan must therefore begin treating healthy ageing as an important component of its public health agenda.

Older people are more likely to experience chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, visual and hearing impairment and other age-related problems. Many also face difficulties........

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