It’s ‘healthy’ to live in family

# The basics
In 1993, the UN General Assembly decided that 15 May should be observed as The International Day of Families
In 2023, it will be dedicated to raising awareness on the impact of demographic trends on families
# Some facts
Life expectancy reached 72.8 years in 2019, an improvement of around 9 years since 1990
By 2030, nearly 12% of the world’s population will be 65 years of age or older
By 2050, average longevity would reach around 77.2 years
Over 23% individuals live in slums in urban India
2% of the population is homeless and an additional 20% live in inadequate housing
(Source: World Social Report 2023, UN)
# Family matters
Research shows that people who live in families tend to live longer
Family people live healthier lives than those who live alone
Most of them get a supportive environment to cope with stress and illness
Family can also encourage healthy habits, such as regular exercise and eating a balanced diet
# Children in family
Children who grow up in families tend to have better mental health
Families provide a stable and nurturing environment
It helps children develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence
Families provide opportunities for socialization and learning
# Changing families
The family system in India is unique and diverse
Traditionally, Indian families have been patriarchal
This is changing now; and many adopting more egalitarian structures
Families also becoming more nuclear, with fewer extended families living together
# Survey findings
The National Family Health Survey shows that families play a crucial role in healthcare
Family members often the first point of contact for healthcare
They play a vital role in preventing and managing illnesses
Families play a critical role in promoting maternal and child health too
EXPERT SPEAK
Their genetic makeup and the environment around them shape children’s personalities. If the family atmosphere is positive, children too learn to think positively. Living in a good family is very important.
Dr Manjusha Giri | former chairperson of Adolescence Health Academy of IAP, India
(Text: Chaitanya Deshpande)