Aging

The aging of the population has been identified as one of the strategic challenges the State of Israel will face in the coming years. There will be an increasing burden on the health and social service systems due to the increase in life expectancy coupled with the growing number of people with chronic diseases and disabilities dwelling in the community. There will also be a greater burden on the social services and on families of older adults because of greater longevity following retirement and national policy that favors treatment in the community. These trends demand changes in the concepts guiding the provision of health and social welfare services, such as promoting prevention and postponing dependence, increasing the feeling of belonging, and the provision of services by local social welfare departments. In addition, the aging of the population requires coordination and collaboration between government ministries and non-governmental organizations working in this area, as well as the creation of a common road map and the development of a commonly accepted set of indicators. The Aging Team at MJB has significantly contributed to the national effort to develop effective policies and services aimed at addressing these challenges, inter alia, by developing indicators designed to serve as a compass for all the agencies dealing with aging and senior citizens in Israel. In addition, in light of the events of October 7, 2023, and the Israel-Hamas War, the Aging Team will support policymakers and service developers in addressing the needs of older adults in times of war and emergencies.