Challenges of an aging population

There has been a dramatic increase in life expectancy globally in the past decades. The increasing life expectancy has given rise to increasing aging population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people over 65 years of age would outnumber the children under the age of 14 by 2050. The growing elderly population has caused a major shift in the focus of healthcare to chronic diseases like hypertension ,diabetes, chronic heart conditions and dementia.

What are the consequences of an aging population on healthcare?

The demands for healthcare services are increasing with increase in average life expectancy of the population. The elderly population requires frequent and emergency medical interventions. This has imposed a significant burden on socio- economic structures of most countries. According to Census Bureau 2014 report, relating to the trends and statistics in U.S. seniors, In 2010 those 65 and older spent about $18,424 per person on personal health care, “about three times more than the average working-age adult and about five times more than the average child,”

On the other side there has been a rise in cost of diagnostic tools, health care services and prescription drugs. A shortage of healthcare professionals is also expected. The changes in family structure across the globe has resulted in fewer caregivers. In the US the older population is increasingly becoming more racially and ethnically diverse. However, the diversity of caregivers lags behind the growing diversity of patients.

With increasing healthcare demands, it is clear that addressing the needs of the growing elderly population requires new and innovative solutions. There is a need for developing methods of continuous remote monitoring of the elderly. With an increase in mental health problems like dementia and depression, the significance of providing comfortable care at home while enjoying the warmth of their family has increased.

Today, there is a growing number of sensors and wearables in the market. Sensors measure different parameters including heart rate , electrocardiogram (ECG), , electroencephalogram (EEG), body temperature and oxygen saturation. However challenges exists in their adaptability and the integration of these technologies. A growing concern for privacy and data has also arisen. A centralized platform which integrates these sensors and variables would be ideal to help health-care providers monitor the overall health and well being.