Kelvin M Leshabari
I-Katch Technology Ltd, Tanzania
Title: Challenges in morbidity and mortality statistics of the elderly population in Tanzania: A call to action
Biography
Biography: Kelvin M Leshabari
Abstract
Objective: To highlight the challenges and opportunities in the reported statistics of diseases and deaths among the elderly population of Tanzania.
Methods: A rapid appraisal of available gaps from known facts and figures targeting the elderly cohort of Tanzania.
Findings: The proportion of people aged 60 years and above almost doubled (5.2% (2010) vs. 2.9% (in 2000), p<0.01) between two consecutive national censuses. Furthermore, life expectancy at birth rose from 50 (in early 1990’s) to 61 years in 2010. There is no evidence of any concrete policy on elderly care in Tanzania. There is scanty evidence of elderly research in Tanzania. The few available elderly population morbidity & mortality statistics of Tanzania were derived from hospital based data.
Conclusion: There is palpable evidence that the elderly segment is rapidly growing in the population pyramid of Tanzania.
Recommendations: There is a need for reliable and sustainable resource allocation in support for elderly care services in Tanzania.