Burden of Dementia in Europe, 1990-2023: a systematic analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023.

Population ageing is one of the most significant demographic transitions of the 21st century. Advances in healthcare, improved living conditions, and declining fertility rates have led to a substantial increase in life expectancy and a growing proportion of older adults worldwide. The United Nations has estimated that by 2050, one in every six people globally will be aged 65 years or older, compared to one in 11 in 2019 []. Simultaneously, India is experiencing a rapid demographic shift towards an ageing population, with older adults anticipated to constitute nearly one-fifth of the country's population by 2050 []. As longevity increases, older individuals face a higher risk of chronic non-communicable diseases, functional impairments, social isolation, and psychological challenges that may adversely affect their quality of life and overall well-being []. Consequently, promoting healthy ageing and improving the well-being of older adults have emerged as major global public health priorities, exemplified by the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030) []. Well-being consists of physical, psychological, and social dimensions of health and is an important indicator of healthy ageing. Contemporary geriatric care increasingly focuses on enhancing well-being and quality of life, with the WHO-5 Well-Being Index serving as a widely validated measure of positive mental well-being [,]. Rapid urbanization, migration of younger family members, increasing workforce mobility, and the gradual shift from joint to nuclear family systems have contributed to the growing institutionalization of older adults in India. Although old age homes provide accommodation and basic healthcare support, residents often experience loneliness, separation from family, loss of social roles, dependency, and reduced social interactions, which may adversely affect their well-being [,].