IMPLICATIONS OF INDIAN TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE (ITK) IN AYURVEDA: A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO IMPROVING THE HEALTH STATUS OF THE ELDERLY

Abstract

The global acceleration of population ageing is leading to increased chronic diseases, functional impairments, cognitive decline, and psychosocial vulnerabilities among older adults. Contemporary geriatric healthcare primarily focuses on disease-specific management, often neglecting preventive and holistic aspects of well-being. Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), particularly Ayurveda, offer a comprehensive framework for promoting healthy ageing through individualised, preventive, and integrative strategies. Ayurveda conceptualises ageing (Jara) as a natural but modifiable process associated with Vata predominance and tissue degeneration. It emphasizes Rasayana (rejuvenation therapy), balanced nutrition, daily and seasonal regimens (Dinacharya and Ritucharya), yoga, meditation, and ethical living (Sadvritta) to maintain vitality and functional independence. Recent scientific evidence supports the role of Ayurvedic herbs, yoga-based interventions, and lifestyle modification in reducing inflammation, enhancing cognitive performance, improving immune resilience, and managing chronic conditions common in older adults. This paper critically examines Ayurvedic principles relevant to geriatric health and explores their integration with contemporary medicine. It concludes that Ayurveda offers a sustainable, culturally grounded, and evidence-informed model for enhancing healthspan and quality of life in the elderly population. This study places primary importance on various types of qualitative data, including the health scenario in India and West Bengal, regional health issues, and traditional treatment systems. It also examines exposure to, availability of and dependence on the Ayurvedic treatment system among the general population across different periods and locations.