A literature review reveals a gradual increase in life expectancy and the population
over age 60 in Africa. Elderly Africans already have debilitating diseases similar to
the elderly in developed countries. The absence of national programs (pensions,
benefits) and the trend toward urbanization and serious economic stress in the
younger adult population, which may destroy the extended family network, are
major threats to the growing elderly population. We recommend that programs for
care of the aged be incorporated into the "Health for All Through Primary Health
Care" goal set by the World Health Organization.
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