28
Jan

As the demographic shift toward an aging population accelerates across the East Asia & Pacific, South Asia, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA)regions, there is an urgent need to address the ethical and equitable empowerment of vulnerable elderly individuals through the development of innovative policies and long-term care services. The increasing number of elderly citizens across the regions not only highlights the pressing demand for comprehensive care but also emphasizes their significant role in enriching the economic and social fabric of their communities. To effectively harness their contributions, it is essential to implement inclusive policies that leverage new technologies, enhance healthcare access, and strengthen support systems tailored to their specific needs.

The rising demand for elderly care has brought attention to various challenges, including workforce shortages and infrastructural inadequacies, alongside the economic implications of an aging population. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Thailand and other countries of the region have made significant strides by developing effective long-term care systems bolstered by financing schemes, inclusive policies, and innovative technologies that facilitate universal or community-based care. These efforts demonstrate valuable lessons for others in the region that are still in the early stages of planning. The emergence of the care economy presents both challenges and opportunities; while growing demand for elderly care necessitates sustainable long-term care systems supported by trained professionals, it also opens avenues for job creation, particularly for women who often dominate caregiving roles. By focusing on the care economy, countries can address multiple objectives: enhancing the quality of care for the elderly, professionalizing caregiving roles, creating economic opportunities, and ensuring the sustainability of long-term care services. Through cross-regional dialogue and collaboration, the event aims to address the dual imperatives of improving care for the elderly and creating economic opportunities by expanding the care economy. By bringing together experts and policymakers, the event will foster the exchange of best practices and promote innovation in long-term care systems and workforce development.