World Health Day 2012

The theme of World Health Day 2012, marked on 7 April 2012, is devoted to "Ageing and Health". Life expectancy is going up in most countries, meaning more and more people live longer and enter an age when they may need health care. Over the past century life expectancy has increased dramatically and the world will soon have more older people than children. Populations are ageing everywhere, but less-developed countries are witnessing the fastest change. This social transformation represents both challenges and opportunities. In particular, countries may only have a single generation to prepare their health and social systems for an ageing world.

Key messages

• Older people are a valuable resource for their societies and should feel valued.
• Good health throughout life helps us make the most of the positive aspects of ageing.
• Societies who take care of their older populations, and support their active participation in daily life, will be better prepared to cope with the changing world.

 Good health in older age can be achieved by:

• Promoting health across the life-course.
• Creating age-friendly environments that foster the health and participation of older people.
• Providing access to basic primary health care, long-term care and palliative care.
• Acknowledging the value of older people and help them participate fully in family and community life.

We wish happy-healthy long life to all older people of Bangladesh.

To observe the day United Hospital in collaboration with Banglalink has arranged a Health Awareness program at Banglalink head office.