In 2050, there will be 2.1 billion people over 60

In 2050 the planet will host 2 billion people over 60, a reality that needs adequate health protection and policies.

People live longer all over the world, the average expectation is now over 60 years and the WHO estimates that by the end of the next decade, seniors will have increased by more than half, thus going from 962 million in 2017 to 1, 4 billion in 2030. Furthermore, by 2050 the world's elderly population will reach 2.1 billion people.

And it is in developing countries that the number of people aged 60 and over is estimated to grow fastest.

Between 2017 and 2050, this segment of the world population living in developing countries is expected to double from 652 million to 1.7 billion.

In the more developed countries, however, the figures speak of an increase from 310 million to 427 million.

In 2050, therefore, almost 80% of the world's elderly population will live in developing countries.

The fastest growth in people over 60 is expected in Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and Asia.

And as for Covid 19, it is shown that older people due to the physiological changes that accompany aging are the most affected and most exposed to disease.

For this reason, the General Assembly of the United Nations has declared the period 2021-2030 "decade for old age in good health".

The next ten years must therefore be an opportunity for the international community to invest and act in a concerted and lasting way to promote healthy aging.

According to the WHO, it is about providing integrated and person-centered health and basic health services, therefore tailored to the specific needs of the elderly.

"We must ensure that the elderly and other potentially vulnerable groups are not left behind", stresses the WHO calling on governments to take measures that ensure a healthy life and well-being for the elderly.