Decline in fertility, mortality, and rapid population migration has contributed to the structural changes of population in Asia. By the mid-twenty-first century, Asia will become the oldest region in the world with more than half (62%) of the world’s older population. While the pace of ageing differs across Asia, all countries/areas will face challenges to sustaining economic growth, while at the same time responding to a rising demand for social welfare and pension, health, and medical care—particularly long-term care and social services. It becomes increasingly recognized that relying on the role of family or the government to provide support for elders is not only unreliable but also costly. Policy and innovative initiatives should be made to emphasize collaboration among individuals, families, communities in enhancing home- and community-based care, creating an enabling environment, as well as supporting older persons’ participation in society.
