What does the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing midpoint report mean for the UK Government?

World leaders gathered at the 81st UN General Assembly in September amid growing pressures on health systems, constrained development financing and renewed debate about the future of global health cooperation. At this time, the UN Secretary-General presented the mid-term progress report on the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), marking an important moment to take stock and strengthen the global commitment to healthy ageing through to 2030.

About the policy response

The policy response presents an overview of the report, which shows that while progress has been made, that it is unevenly shared across global contexts. More governments are taking action to tackle ageism, provide integrated care, strengthen long-term care and create age-friendly environments. However, the report also exposes a persistent gap between policy and delivery.

Healthy ageing should be recognised as an investment rather than an additional cost. A life course investment in prevention, inclusive health systems, long-term care and age-friendly environments can improve health outcomes.

Recommendations 

Age International recommends that the UK Government develops a time-bound plan for delivering the remainder of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing to 2030. This plan should set out how FCDO, DHSC, and other relevant departments will:

1. Embed healthy ageing and action on ageism across global health strategy.
   
   
2. Invest in inclusive, country-led health systems.
   
   
3. Strengthen data and accountability.
   
   
4. Promote older people’s leadership. 

You can find read more detailed recommendations in the full policy response.