Our life expectancy has soared from 50 in 1990 to 80 in 2022, and the elderly population (65+) is projected to rise from 5% to 12.5% by 2050. We face a pressing challenge: ensuring our seniors age with dignity.
Recent studies from the Maldives National University (2024) and UNFPA highlight critical barriers: limited healthcare access, social isolation, and a rise in non-communicable diseases.
As we navigate this shift, we must prioritize empowerment over reliance, fostering a society where the elderly thrive as active, valued contributors.
“We need to build a culture of inclusion, instead of doing things for the elderly.”
Healthcare access is a cornerstone of dignified aging. The MNU survey reveals gaps in the Aasandha scheme, particularly for home-based care, and a shortage of geriatric specialists.
With 50% of seniors battling depression and non-communicable diseases like heart disease straining resources, we need targeted investments: training local healthcare professionals, expanding preventive care, and ensuring consistent medication access.
These steps not only address physical needs but also combat the mental health crisis exacerbated by isolation, especially in rural islands where traditional family support is eroding.
Beyond healthcare, dignity demands inclusion. Urban migration and nuclear families leave many elderly feeling disconnected, as Villa College studies show.
Safe public spaces, community programs, and lifelong learning initiatives can bridge this gap, encouraging active aging over passive dependence.
And by balancing essential support with policies that promote autonomy, we can transform aging into a journey of purpose, setting a model for small island nations worldwide.
Smile and Let Smile 