Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups Imran Pambudi said on Friday that although Indonesia's life expectancy has reached 74.15 years, HALE remains at around 60.7 years.
This highlights a significant gap between overall life expectancy and years lived in good health, leaving many older adults at risk of spending their later years with illnesses, dependency, or functional limitations.
Findings from the 2025 Free Health Check program showed that mobility limitations were the most common health problem among older adults, affecting 64.6 percent of elderly participants screened.
"Data from the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey showed that dependency among people aged 60 and above increases with age, with around 5 percent experiencing varying levels of dependency, ranging from mild to total dependence," Imran said.
He noted that Indonesia is entering the era of an aging population as life expectancy continues to rise due to improvements in healthcare and welfare.
According to him, health development should focus not only on helping people live longer but also on ensuring older adults remain healthy, independent, active, and maintain a good quality of life.
Strength, mobility, balance, and mental sharpness are increasingly regarded as key indicators of healthy aging rather than youthful appearance alone, he added.
"Therefore, the concept of healthy aging is crucial, ensuring that older adults maintain functional abilities that allow them to live independently and remain active in society," Imran said.
He noted that people who prioritize physical fitness and mobility tend to face lower risks of chronic diseases, remain independent longer, and require less intensive care later in life.
He said investing in physical fitness, adequate sleep, proper nutrition, and supportive environments is key to ensuring a dignified and independent old age.
"Barrier-free access, safe walking surfaces, and public spaces that encourage physical activity are essential. Incentives for preventive services proven to extend healthy life expectancy are also socially and economically valuable," Imran said.
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Translator: Mecca Yumna, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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