GROWING older is not the end of life’s journey, but the beginning of a new chapter, a golden era enriched by wisdom, resilience and experience. The Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) framework of the World Health Organisation (WHO) reminds us that healthy ageing extends beyond treating diseases. It emphasises the need to maintain intrinsic capacity, which is the combination of an individual’s physical and mental abilities, including memory and thinking (cognition), mobility, vitality, vision, hearing, psychological wellbeing, continence and the ability to remain socially connected. When these capacities are preserved, older adults are better able to continue living meaningful, independent and fulfilling lives.
Unfortunately, ageing is still too often associated with isolation. Many older people gradually withdraw from social activities, lose confidence because of declining mobility or hearing, struggle with poor vision or incontinence, or experience loneliness after retirement and the loss of loved ones. With timely support and appropriate interventions, these challenges can be prevented, delayed or effectively managed.
Individuals can adopt healthy lifestyles, remain physically active, eat nutritious diets, keep their minds engaged through reading and lifelong learning, maintain regular health check-ups, and stay socially connected. Families should encourage older relatives to participate in household decisions, community events and inter-
generational activities rather than allowing them to become isolated. Communities can establish senior clubs, walking groups, volunteer opportunities and lifelong learning programmes that help older adults remain active and connected.
Policymakers and healthcare systems also have an essential role in this regard. Community-based health programmes, routine health screening, caregiver support, age-friendly public spaces, and access to rehabilitation services can help older adults maintain their intrinsic capacity and independence for as long as possible. Graceful ageing is not merely about living longer; it is about living with purpose, dignity and joy.
A society is judged not by how it treats its strongest members, but by how it values those who have spent a lifetime building it.
Dr Nasim Zahid Shah
Gilgit
Published in Dawn, October 11th, 2026
