Health and wellbeing of older people in LMICs: a call for research-informed decision making

By 2030, an estimated 80% of the world's older population (aged ≥60 years) will reside in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Ageing well in these regions requires addressing complex financial, health, and social care needs through evidence-based policy and practice. However, data collection in LMICs remains limited and often unrepresentative, as seen in Brazil, where nearly 70% of geriatrics and gerontology publications (2014–2019) originated from the south or southeast regions. Recognizing the diverse needs of ageing populations, it is crucial to prioritize locally informed research and targeted interventions. Urgent action is needed to expand research efforts, inform policy development, and strengthen systems that address the medical and psychosocial challenges faced by older individuals in LMICs.