Innovative Index Promotes Global Understanding of Successful Aging

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) monitor over 230 indicators to evaluate progress in social, economic, and environmental aspects worldwide. However, despite the global focus on population aging, older adults are seldom directly represented in these metrics. Recognizing this gap, researcher Ng Kah Long introduces the Aging Planet Index (API), a innovative framework designed to assess how well countries support successful aging.

The SDGs primarily overlook the specific needs and well-being of older adults, even as this demographic is growing rapidly—particularly in developing nations. These countries face a dual challenge: managing swift aging populations while still grappling with basic developmental issues. Traditional aging indexes often reflect policymakers' priorities rather than the desires of older adults themselves.

In constructing the API, Ng Kah Long emphasized what older adults value most: well-being, health, and environmental safety. The index features three core components:

1. Well-being: Measured through self-reported happiness and healthy life expectancy, acknowledging that a good quality of life is central to successful aging.
2. Economic and Social Security: Instead of employment rates, the index assesses pension coverage, poverty levels, social support, and feelings of productivity, recognizing the importance of financial independence and social engagement.
3. Environmental Factors: Environmental health is crucial yet often neglected. The API includes indicators such as air pollution, lead exposure, and vulnerability to extreme weather, which disproportionately affect older adults.

Using standardized data from nine variables across 140 countries, the API ranks nations based on their performance in these areas. Results reveal that the top rankings predominantly belong to Northern and Western Europe, correlating strongly with economic wealth and resources. However, the analysis highlights that gender inequality and universal health coverage are significant contributors to better aging outcomes across different income levels.

Addressing gender disparities is vital. Women often face lifelong burdens like discrimination and caregiving responsibilities, which impact their health and well-being in old age. Strengthening women's societal roles, such as through policies like India's reserved village council seats for women, can lead to more equitable and supportive aging environments.

Economist Amartya Sen emphasizes that countries need not wait for economic riches to improve health and education—progress can be made with targeted policies. The API aims to foster a global conversation on aging, encouraging nations to prioritize critical dimensions like health, security, and environment to enhance quality of life for older adults.

This innovative index offers a comprehensive lens through which to view successful aging and underscores the importance of tailored policies that reflect the real needs and desires of aging populations.