The Regional Committee,
Recalling resolutions WHA32.25, WHA35.28, WHA40.29, WPR/RC32.R15 and WPR/RC36.R23 on health of the elderly;
Noting the issues raised in the report of the Regional Director on Health of the elderly;*
Recognizing that the population of the Region is ageing rapidly;
Considering the wide-ranging implications of extensive and rapid population ageing on the health, social and economic circumstances, and quality of life of older persons;
Noting that 1999 will be the International Year of Older Persons;
- URGES Member States:
- (1) to formulate policies and strengthen programmes to improve the health and quality of life of older persons consistent with the concepts outlined in New horizons in health;
- (2) to collect gender-specific data on health issues related to ageing;
- (3) to strengthen intercountry cooperation;
- REQUESTS the Regional Director:
- (1) to continue collaboration with Member States in the formulation of policies and development of national programmes for the health of older persons;
- (2) to promote studies, research and data collection on health and ageing and facilitate information exchange;
- (3) to report progress to the Regional Committee at its forty-ninth session in 1998.