Every year on December 3, we commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), aiming to bring attention to the rights and overall welfare of individuals with unique needs. This day is observed to highlight the various political and socio-economic challenges confronted by people with disabilities.
Recognised jointly by the World Health Organization and the United Nations, this day emphasises the crucial importance of safeguarding the rights of those with special needs. In this article, we will delve into the ways in which disability and lifespan are interconnected.
Dr. Devesh Kumar Singh, who is the Chairman of Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences said, “The interconnectedness of disability and lifespan reveals a significant narrative in the complicated dance of existence. It emphasises the need to improve everyone’s quality of life above and beyond survival. We need to find a harmonic balance between pushing the limits of longevity and guaranteeing that every person, regardless of ability, lives a life full of dignity and well-being.”
In addition, Dr. Khushboo Pilania Agrawal, who is the Founder of Izen Imaging & Interventions said, “The entanglement of disability and lifespan emerges as a painful crossroad as we negotiate the complicated landscape of health, forcing us to reimagine the narrative of well-being. By accepting this junction, we set out on a path towards a comprehensive worldview that values each person’s dignity and empowerment regardless of capacity in addition to prolonging life. In the future, healthcare will transcend old boundaries, promote inclusion, and recognise each person’s unique contributions.”
Speaking in terms of statistics and the things that can be improved for older people, Anupama Datta, who is the Head of Policy Research and Advocacy of HelpAge India said, “We are moving in the direction of an ageing society with more than 7% population in the age group of 60+. Therefore, it is time that we change our perspective to be inclusive of the concerns of aged people. We should explore possibilities of life long reskilling and re-employment, active and healthy ageing and universal access. Technology should be designed and used keeping in mind the needs of older persons who may suffer impairments of sight, limbs, hearing and cognitive decline. If we don’t take these things into consideration, we’ll be excluding 6 to 8% of the aged population from being full members of society.
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]