Healthy ageing is about “optimizing opportunities for good health, so that older people can take an active part in society and enjoy an independent and high quality of life” Statistics from the United Nations Population Fund indicate that by 2026, the number of elderly persons in India alone will rise to 173 million. Therefore, it is important to provide the elderly with resources through which they can tackle age-related concerns and increase their independence.

To extend PDMDS scope from rehabilitation to prevention, a ‘Healthy Ageing’ program has been initiated for senior citizens and those living at senior residential homes. This program imparts education on neurological conditions prevalent in the elderly population, particularly Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Stroke. These sessions include interactive activity sessions and information on healthy ageing.

As there is a general lack of awareness about neurological health care, the focus of this programme is to equip the elderly with practical skills and knowledge about early detection of neurological illnesses and also to contribute towards their overall well-being at an advanced age.