Integrating Ayush into geriatric care: A holistic approach to address healthcare needs of India’s aging population

India is experiencing a substantial demographic shift with a growing elderly population, defined as individuals aged 60 years and above. This demographic transition, driven by declining fertility rates, lower mortality, and longer life expectancy, requires enhanced healthcare strategies tailored to the unique needs of older adults. Traditional Ayush systems, encompassing Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homeopathy, offer holistic approaches to preventing and treating age-related conditions. Recent trends show a significant rise in the use of traditional medicine among the elderly, driven by factors such as cost-effectiveness and a preference for herbal therapies. Research and clinical trials have increasingly focused on evaluating the efficacy of these interventions in managing diseases prevalent among seniors, including osteoarthritis, cognitive disorders, depression, and sleep issues. Despite the recognized benefits of Ayush systems, the integration into mainstream elderly care remains limited. Current healthcare initiatives, such as the National Program for Health Care of the Elderly and Ayushman Bharat, provide frameworks to address geriatric health issues and promote convergence with Ayush, but often have limited integration with the Ayush system. This gap highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that combines modern and traditional medicine. The integration of Ayush into geriatric care could enhance service delivery by advancing health promotion, preventing infirmities and disease, and addressing mental health issues, nutritional needs, and providing palliative care through evidence-based practices. Addressing these needs requires increased training for healthcare professionals, improved infrastructure, and focused research. A strategic integration of Ayush into existing health programs, alongside community-based initiatives, can significantly improve the quality of life for India’s aging population, ensuring a more holistic and effective approach to elderly care.