Summary
The Asia Pacific region is a vast geographical area in the Southern Hemisphere comprising 48 countries, with sharp contrasts in economic and social conditions.
Due to longer life expectancies, ageing populations and smaller families, ageing persons will require much health and social care in the future.
Elderly people in the Asia Pacific region face diseases associated with ageing and challenges common to all age groups
within the region, such as environmental health issues related to global warming, communicable diseases,
non-communicable diseases and health system development challenges.