Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 28 May 2024, a round table “Ensuring the rights and choice of older people: a study of the active longevity index of Uzbekistan” was held in Tashkent, organized by the Research Institute “Family and Gender” under the Committee on Affairs Families and Women of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

More than 80 participants from representatives of ministries and departments, representatives of the diplomatic corps, international organizations and the scientific community take part in the round table. 

The event is aimed at discussing and improving the living conditions of older people, creating a favorable environment for their active and healthy longevity. The program included presentations, reports and discussions with the participation of representatives of government and public organizations, as well as international experts.

At the beginning of the event, Professor Hamid Abduramanov, Deputy Director of the Research Institute “Family and Gender” under the Committee for Family and Women’s Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, presented the results of a study on the situation of older people in Uzbekistan and the active longevity index. presented. The study is illuminating.

Deputy Prime Minister Zulayho Makhkamova noted in her speech: “The issue of honoring older people and giving them due respect is considered a priority of the state policy of New Uzbekistan. The reforms carried out in recent years have largely contributed to improving the living conditions of the older generation and increasing their influence in society. Ensuring social justice, using the vast experience of our enlightened fathers and mothers, educating the younger generation, maintaining the stability of the spiritual environment is of great importance.” 

In her speech, UNFPA Resident Representative in Uzbekistan Dr. Nigina Abaszada emphasized: “UNFPA is committed to ensuring that every older person in Uzbekistan has the opportunity to live with dignity, respect and opportunities for active participation in society. Our collaboration with government and community organizations is aimed at improving the living conditions of older people and creating policies that promote active aging.”

The round table speakers touched upon the issues of creating an environment and conditions for active and healthy longevity in the Republic of Uzbekistan, including social protection and support for older people, their social integration, the role of parliament in the policy of active longevity, as well as a program for a healthy lifestyle in Tashkent and initiatives on active aging and longevity.

Mariana Buciuceanu-Vrabie, head of the Center for Demographic Research at the National Institute of Economic Research (Chisinau), spoke about Moldova’s experience in developing a national plan and introducing an active longevity index. Yongji Yong, Coordinator on Aging and Health at the Regional Office for Europe of the World Health Organization (WHO), informed about the preparatory work to develop a national strategy and action plan for Uzbekistan on healthy and active aging. Representatives of NGOs for older people and active older people took an active part in the discussions.

In 2012, the UN introduced the Active Aging Index to measure the untapped potential of older people for active and healthy aging in different countries. It measures the extent to which older people live independent lives, participate in paid work and social activities, and their ability to age actively. The index highlights the strengths and weaknesses of active aging and thus informs policy and strategy development.

The Government of Uzbekistan is committed to promoting the Active Aging Index. Presidential Decree No. UP-167 from 15 March 2022 envisages the development of a regulatory document on the implementation of the Active Aging Index in Uzbekistan based on best international experience.

The Active Longevity Index in Uzbekistan is 34.9 points out of 100, indicating the need to improve health and social support for older people. It is recommended to develop disease prevention, improve access to health services and integrate older people into the labor market to ensure active aging.