Ageing in Pakistan: Psychological, Social and Policy Perspectives

Ageing in Pakistan: Psychological, Social, and Policy Perspectives Population ageing is emerging as one of the most significant demographic transformations in Pakistan. While advances in healthcare and increasing life expectancy have contributed to a growing older population, the country remains insufficiently prepared to address the complex psychological, social, economic, and healthcare challenges associated with later life. This monograph provides a comprehensive examination of ageing within the Pakistani context, integrating perspectives from psychology, gerontology, sociology, public health, and social policy. It explores key issues including psychological well-being, mental health, cognitive decline, dementia, caregiving, gender inequalities, social support, retirement, socioeconomic vulnerability, and public policy responses. Particular attention is given to the influence of family systems, spirituality, intergenerational relationships, and cultural values in shaping the experiences of older adults. Moving beyond deficit-oriented views of ageing, the book also highlights resilience, wisdom, social connectedness, and other strengths that contribute to healthy and successful ageing. By situating ageing within Pakistan's unique cultural and socioeconomic context, the monograph contributes to the growing field of gerontology and addresses an important gap in indigenous ageing literature. Written for students, researchers, psychologists, healthcare professionals, social workers, policymakers, and scholars of ageing, this book offers an interdisciplinary and culturally grounded understanding of one of Pakistan's most pressing social realities.