Challenges of health and ageing in Portugal's population: Promote dignity and non-discrimination

Abstract

The article discusses the challenges that arise from the population's increasing longevity and the need to address complex physical and mental health issues to ensure high-quality health services for older people. It emphasises the importance of reflecting on and addressing these challenges to ensure there are more means and policies in the future. Based on a qualitative methodology, the analysis draws on international legal instruments, public health policy frameworks, and scientific literature concerning ageing, health systems, and the legal implications of age-based discrimination. The WHO's Decade of Healthy Ageing 2020–2030 plan highlights the need for changes to promote healthy ageing. To meet the needs of older people, integrated care, long-term care, and primary health care services centred on the elderly are necessary. Additionally, awareness-raising campaigns on ageism and the prevention of age discrimination are crucial. Discrimination can have a detrimental effect on the provision of healthcare and the health of older people. While establishing or re-establishing formal equality for older people is important, it is not sufficient to guarantee their dignity. It is crucial to ensure the dignity and non-discrimination of older people through positive measures.