Contemporary Policy for Active Ageing

Contemporary Policy for Active Ageing

Introduction

Ageing is one of the most important parts of human life and poses great challenges for those who enter this period. It will create issues for the government that do not take care of their old population especially in the 21st century. Increasing percentage of older people cannot be ignored and demands attention from government of every country. Old people are an important part of our society and cannot be left to ignore at the hand of poor health or nature. They can make great contributions to our society and prove to be more committed and useful, if taken care of in a proper manner. According to World Health Organization, the government, international associations and society can make effective contributions to society by introducing active ageing health programs through participation and continuous effort. Such programs will help ageing population lead a healthier life style. In many countries the concept of old age is often related to being sick and suffering with some disease. But now views are changing and people want to enter this period of life with a positive attitude.

Contemporary policy in exercising or active ageing is a new concept becoming very popular in Australian population. The latest study and research suggest that around 12 percent people from the total population of Australian are above 65 years. According to estimation and prediction, this figure will rise to 26 percent in 2021((Australian Institute of Health and Welfare & Office for Older Australians, 1999). Kalache and Keller explain that there is a big difference in how people perceived phenomenon of ageing in the 20th century and how they perceive it now that is in the 21st century. Now people want to focus more on the quality of life of old age citizens to make them more active and contribute and participate in the society in a positive manner. (Kalache & Keller, 1999). Minister of ageing states that it is very important to include valuable experience and knowledge aging people for societal growth (Australian Government: Department of Health and Aging, 2012).

Cotemporary polices suggest different types of framework in the context of ageing. Each contemporary framework tends to eradicated negative aspects related to old age and presents an optimistic option. The views of Australian people regarding old age are changing. Their approach towards this phenomenon is positive and welcoming. They want to enter this period of life by being physically and mentally healthy (Buys & Miller, 2006).



Discussion

Active Ageing

Some researchers suggested around twenty key components of active ageing, and the top five among them were taking care of the health, being active, living a happy life., physical workout or activity and being optimistic and positive (Tate et.al, 2003). Two researchers conducted a survey on British people aged above 50 and found out that to them successful or active aging included psychological factors, social factors, finances, neighborhood etc. out of these health and social factors top the list (Bowling & Dieppe, ...