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Interventions for Enhancing Health and Well-Being Among Indian Elderly

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Psychosocial Interventions for Health and Well-Being

Abstract

Substantial developments in health-related services have improved the longevity and life expectancy all across the world including India and therefore, there is a noticeable increase in the number and proportion of elderly (individuals aged 60 years and above). Merely adding years to life does not always ensure extra wellness, prosperity and quality of life. Aging may bring it with its own share of problems like increased susceptibility to infection, difficulties in coping with physical and psychological stress from chronic illnesses like degenerative arthritis, cardio-vascular disease and cognitive impairment. Further, the elderly often experience social isolation, exclusion and marginalization. The summative effect of these factors can adversely influence their health and well-being. The present chapter examines the conceptual definition of elderly, age-related changes and its effect on the state of mind along with a detailed description of the socio-demographics of elderly. It also explores ageing-related health problems, subsequent needs of the elderly and provides evidence-based interventional strategies to improve their health and well-being.

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Correspondence to Nisha Mani Pandey .

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Pandey, N.M., Misra, I., Tiwari, S.C. (2018). Interventions for Enhancing Health and Well-Being Among Indian Elderly. In: Misra, G. (eds) Psychosocial Interventions for Health and Well-Being. Springer, New Delhi. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-81-322-3782-2_11

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