LIFE SKILLS FOR HEALTHY AGEING: PREPARING YOUTH FOR LONG-TERM WELLNESS

Healthy ageing is not merely an end-of-life concern—it begins much earlier, often with the small daily choices of youth. By nurturing life skills in young people, we shape tomorrow's adults who are not just long-lived but thrive with meaning, connection, and independence. This article calls on educators and policymakers to reimaging life skills education, infusing it with real humanity, empathy, and lived experiences that help bridge generations. India’s ageing population faces distinct challenges shaped by geography and gender. Rural elderly, especially women, encounter significant barriers to accessing healthcare and social support, contributing to poorer health and wellbeing outcomes. Urban elderly benefit from greater infrastructure yet face issues of social isolation. Targeted policies addressing these divides through improved healthcare delivery, financial inclusion, social engagement, and digital literacy are essential to promote healthy ageing across all groups.