The WHO Decade of Healthy Ageing 2020–2030: a policy conception review in the gerontology context

Abstract

This article is a review of the key international documents within the conceptual framework of the “Decade of Healthy Aging 2020–2030” by the World Health Organization (WHO). The aim was to identify potential areas of research in gerontosocial policy in Russia. The methodology employed in this study involved a comprehensive examination of the WHO’s strategic directions for the “Decade of Healthy Aging 2020–2030,” as well as relevant global documents from both the WHO and the United Nations. Additionally, federal sources on population aging policy implemented in the past five years were also considered. In total, 16 texts containing the term “Healthy Aging (Longevity)” in their title or full text, along with 2 texts specifically focused on “Healthy Aging (Longevity) policy,” were sourced from the electronic scientific database eLIBRARY.RU. The evolution of conceptual approaches to population aging policy within the global community is examined in the context of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations (UN) global documents. This analysis encompasses changing attitudes, opinions, and behaviors towards age and aging, as well as empower older individuals in local communities. Additionally, we explored the importance of personalized comprehensive and primary healthcare that caters to the specific needs of older people, as well as ensuring their access to long-term care. Furthermore, this study identifies the points of contact and synergy between scientific activities focused on the Decade of Aging, UN goals, and other gerontological policy documents. By doing so, we attempted to establish a comprehensive understanding of the conceptual and practical approaches to Healthy Aging policy within both Russian and international research communities. The WHO concept of Healthy Aging has highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in the way we approach the medical and social services provided to the elderly. This shift calls for a personalized and coordinated care model, as well as a greater emphasis on the development of long-term care solutions. Research has consistently shown that the integration of medical, psychological, social, environmental, and economic support, is important in establishing a solid foundation for comprehensive information exchange. This integration is essential in ensuring the provision of effective services that can effectively support the elderly throughout their Healthy Aging process.