World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
The importance of data collection for the elderly
A comprehensive social protection measure for the elderly means implementing a well-rounded set of policies and programmes designed to ensure that older adults are adequately supported in various aspects of their lives. This is because older people are vulnerable to physical, emotional or psychological abuse, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, neglect and abandonment. With a comprehensive social protection measure, societies can better support their ageing populations, ensuring they receive the care, respect and opportunities they deserve. These measures aim to provide financial security, healthcare, social inclusion, and overall well-being. However, it is important to note that all the above social protection measures are possible only where there is enough information and accurate data on older people in any given society.
Comprehensive data collection and documentation are essential for ensuring the well-being and social inclusion of older adults. Having sufficient information and accurate data on the elderly is crucial for the effective implementation of social protection measures. This data provides insights into the specific needs, vulnerabilities, and demographics of the elderly population, enabling policymakers to design targeted and impactful programs. Additionally, accurate data helps assess existing policies’ effectiveness and identifies improvement areas.
There is more to recording and documenting the experiences and contributions of the elderly in society than just the need to preserve history. Although capturing personal histories and cultural heritage is important to ensure valuable knowledge and traditions are passed down to the younger generation, the world needs data to inform policies on older people. It is through collecting data on the elderly that policymakers and organisations can understand their unique needs and challenges and be able to generate and implement effective policies and programmes. Examples of information and knowledge on older people required to formulate these policies:
Data on prevalent healthcare conditions
Data on prevalent health conditions, access to healthcare, and healthcare utilisation patterns can inform the development of healthcare services tailored to the elderly, such as specialised clinics, home care services and preventive health programmes.
Information on social services
Understanding social isolation, living arrangements and access to social support can guide the implementation of programmes that promote social inclusion, such as community centres, social activities and support groups.
Data on income security
Data on income levels, sources of income, and economic vulnerabilities can inform policies related to pension schemes, social security benefits, and financial assistance programmes for the elderly.
Details on housing and infrastructure
Information on housing conditions, accessibility and safety can help design age-friendly housing policies and infrastructure improvements that cater to the needs of older adults, such as ramps, handrails and accessible public transportation.
Legal rights and protection information
Data on legal issues, abuse, and discrimination inform policies and programmes aimed at protecting the legal rights of the elderly, such as elder abuse prevention programmes and legal aid services.
Data on long-term care
Understanding the demand for and availability of long-term care services can guide the development of long-term care policies, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities and home care services.
Today, more than ever, a sufficiently practical way of collecting data on the elderly is needed. As more young people move from rural to urban areas in search of better social and economic prospects, older people are often left to fend for themselves in rural areas. Having accurate and timely data on older people ensures organisations and policymakers have information to work with to generate policies and programmes that will provide them with dignified living.
