304 - Mental healthcare services and advocacy for older people amidst the COVID crisis: Voices from South Asia

Abstract

Asia has some of the fastest developing economies and largest conglomerations of populations in the world. One such geographically unique region is South Asia, which accounts for nearly 25% of the global population and one-fifth of the psychiatric morbidity worldwide. This region is also ageing rapidly compared to rest of the world due to modifications in healthcare facilities, hygiene, and lifestyle as well as improved sanitation and infection control. Besides, some of the South Asian countries have also been worst-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic which has led to an exaggerated psychosocial crisis among their older people. Many of these nations face issues with community psychiatric care, trained manpower, socio-economic resources, legislation catering to psychological care and health inequalities. However, recent years have also witnessed paradigm shift in mental health policies, infrastructure and technology among these nations. Climate changes, migration, displacement and ecological characteristics further make South Asia unique in mental health needs and challenges.

With this background, leaders in the field of psychogeriatric care from some of the South Asian nations come together to discuss and highlight upcoming strategies for mental health advocacy and service delivery among older people in these regions. Mutual collaboration and cross-country research are globally called upon.

Panelists:

1. Dr. Gautam Saha (President, Indian Psychiatric Society) [email protected]

2. Dr. G.Prasad Rao (President, Indian Association of Geriatric Mental Health) [email protected]

3. Dr. Sudarshan Narsingh (President, Psychiatrists’ Association of Nepal & President, SAARC Psychiatric Federation) [email protected]

4. Dr. Wazizul Alam Chowdhury (President, Bangladesh Associa tion of Psychiatrists) [email protected]

5. Dr. Afzal Javed (President, World Psychiatric Association and Chairman, Pakistan Psychiatric Centre, Fountain House, Lahore) [email protected]

Moderator:

Dr. Debanjan Banerjee (Old Age Psychiatrist, NIMHANS, Bangalore; Member, IPA Public Awareness and Advocacy Committee) [email protected]