For the first time in recorded history, the majority of individuals now aim to live into their 60s and beyond. This lifespan in less developed nations is mostly attributable to significantly lower death rates at younger ages.

The primary cause of the ongoing gains in longevity in high-income or other developed countries is the increased life expectancy of individuals. A child born in today’s world can expect to live at least 20 years longer than a child born fifty years ago.

A longer lifespan is a very significant asset. It offers the chance to re-evaluate not just what getting older could be like, but also how our entire lives could play out. The degree to which these additional years of life present chances will be highly contingent upon one critical factor, health.

People’s ability to accomplish the things that are important to them will not change much from that of a younger person if they are enjoying these years in good health. Although increasing longevity is often assumed to be accompanied by an extended period of good health, little evidence exists that older people today are experiencing better health than their parents did at the same age.

Ageing is closely linked to a higher vulnerability to experiencing multiple health conditions concurrently, a phenomenon commonly referred to as multimorbidity. As individuals age, the likelihood of co-occurring disorders tends to rise, presenting a complex healthcare challenge. The interconnected nature of various physiological systems and the cumulative effects of prolonged exposure to environmental factors contribute to this increased risk.

Multimorbidity poses significant implications for healthcare delivery, as it necessitates a more comprehensive and integrated approach to medical care. Addressing the healthcare needs of an ageing population requires a shift from a single disease focus to a more holistic model that considers the interconnectedness of different health conditions.

Healthy ageing is conceptualised as a dynamic process characterised by the continual development and preservation of functional ability, ultimately contributing to overall well-being in older age. It goes beyond the mere absence of disease and encompasses the holistic maintenance of physical, mental, and social capabilities.

This perspective acknowledges the intricate interplay between persons and their environments, emphasising the importance of context in shaping the ageing experience. Healthy ageing is not a static state but rather a fluid and adaptive journey that involves optimising one’s physical and mental capacities while navigating the environmental factors that influence health.

This paradigm recognises the need for interventions and policies that empower older individuals to actively engage with their surroundings, fostering a sense of autonomy, resilience, and sustained well-being throughout the ageing process. In essence, healthy ageing embodies a proactive and inclusive approach that promotes not just longevity but a fulfilling and vibrant life in older age.

The foundation for healthy ageing is closely woven into the fabric of our lives, beginning with decisions made in our earlier years. The choices we make today, from lifestyle habits to healthcare practices, lay the groundwork for our future well-being as we age. Healthy ageing is not an isolated destination but a lifelong journey influenced by the cumulative impact of our daily decisions.

Adopting a proactive approach to health, encompassing factors such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, mental well-being, avoiding alcohol and preventive healthcare, sets the stage for a more robust and resilient ageing process. By recognising the significance of early interventions and cultivating healthy habits, we empower ourselves to navigate the challenges of ageing with greater vitality and independence.

In essence, the decisions we make today play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of our health as we progress through the different stages of life, ultimately influencing the extent to which we age with vitality and overall well-being.

The advent of chronic and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) presents a formidable challenge to the prospect of healthy ageing, casting a shadow on the well-being of older populations worldwide. Unlike infectious diseases, chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers tend to develop gradually over time, often becoming more prevalent in older age.

These health challenges not only compromise the functional abilities of individuals but also pose significant hurdles to maintaining a high quality of life in the later stages. The impact is multi-faceted, affecting physical, mental, and social dimensions of well-being.

The rise of NCDs is often linked to lifestyle factors, including sedentary behaviour, unhealthy diets, and tobacco and alcohol use, underscoring the need for preventive strategies that span the entire lifespan. Addressing the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and behavioural factors contributing to NCDs is paramount for fostering healthy ageing.

As we grapple with the growing burden of chronic diseases, a holistic and proactive approach to healthcare becomes imperative to mitigate its toll on the ageing population and promote a more resilient and vibrant elderly demographic.

The evolving landscape of ageing and increased life expectancy presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals and societies in Rwanda. While a longer lifespan is now a shared aspiration, the realisation of a fulfilling and vibrant older age is contingent upon prioritising health and adopting proactive healthcare strategies.

The phenomenon of multimorbidity, the simultaneous presence of multiple health conditions, underscores the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to medical care. Healthy ageing, conceptualised as a dynamic process that encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being, necessitates a shift in focus from a disease-centred model to a holistic one. The phrase ntugasaze rings true.

Dr Vincent Mutabazi is an applied epidemiologist.

X: @VkneeM