1. Dr. Ashok Kumar, could you begin by sharing a bit about your medical journey and your experiences working with senior patients in Kerala?
Indeed. I’ve worked in internal medicine for over two decades now, and a large percentage of my patients are older citizens. I’ve observed the way their health needs have evolved over the years—especially with the rise in chronic diseases, polypharmacy, and the requirement for more individualized and long-term care. Being in a semi-urban setup like Kottarakkara has also given me an overview of the problems of the elderly in receiving quality, consistent care. My modus operandi has always been to listen deeply, respond responsibly, and work towards sustainable solutions—not just for the patient but also for the system.
2. How have you seen healthcare needs evolve among older adults, especially in the context of chronic disease management and technological adoption?
There is a clear rise in chronic lifestyle diseases in the elderly— hypertension, diabetes, COPD, and arthritis being the most common. What has changed drastically is the expectation of continuity and simplicity of care. Technology has emerged as an ally, especially post-COVID. The majority of seniors and their
families are more open to accepting remote consultations, health-tracking apps, and even wearables. There remains, however, a learning curve and a digital divide to bridge—especially in rural areas.
3. Sustainability is becoming central to modern healthcare. What does “sustainable healthcare” mean to you from a clinical perspective?
To me, sustainable healthcare is delivering quality care while preserving the environment and remaining affordable and accessible in the long run. It is effective utilization of resources, minimizing wastage, and maximizing the use of technology to drive outcomes without clogging the system. In the case of geriatric care, it is the incorporation of telehealth where needed, using reusable medical equipment wherever feasible, and advocating for a greener and more efficient practice policy.
4. How do you assess the role of telehealth today in delivering senior care, especially in rural or semi-urban settings like Kottarakkara?
Telehealth has been a game-changer. In our community, it prevents unnecessary hospital visits for our older adults, especially those with mobility issues or families living overseas. With a simple smartphone and some training, many of them now conduct follow-ups remotely. It’s not a complete replacement for on-the-ground care, but it’s certainly a force multiplier. It also reduces travel emissions and clinic congestion—patient- and planet-friendly.
5. What steps can be taken to ensure telehealth for seniors is not only accessible and user-friendly but also environmentally sustainable?
First, digital literacy programs are essential—for both seniors and caregivers. Second, platforms must be designed with simplicity in mind: larger fonts, voice prompts, and regional language options help a lot. Environmentally, cloud-based systems that minimize the need for paper, energy-efficient devices, and promote teleconsultation over long-distance travel all contribute to sustainability. Public-private partnerships can also help scale access responsibly.
6. Are there telehealth models or platforms you’ve come across that align with both senior-friendly design and green healthcare goals?
Yes, there are a few emerging platforms that stand out, especially those that integrate remote vitals monitoring with virtual consultations and offer multilingual support. Some also use AI-driven reminders for medication adherence, which is a big help in elderly care. While many are still in pilot phases, their potential is clear. A sustainable model, in my view, reduces the number of unnecessary hospital admissions while keeping seniors safe and empowered at home.
7. How reliant are senior patients on medical devices, and what sustainability concerns do you observe in their use or disposal?
Seniors will be dependent on devices such as glucometers, BP machines, walkers, and hearing aids. The issue is when these machines are outdated or not functioning properly. None of them have an idea of disposing of e-waste or batteries properly. Some households store old devices without using them, and others dispose of them in a wrong manner. There is a need for education in this regard and for proper collection and recycling centers through healthcare providers or community collections.
8. What can manufacturers and healthcare providers do to promote sustainable production and responsible reuse of medical devices for seniors?
Manufacturers will have to design products to be long-lasting and modular—so that equipment can be upgraded, reused, or fixed instead of thrown away. Greener packaging or trade-in programs can also do the trick. On the provider side, we can teach patients how to maintain, dispose of, and replace single-use products. Hospitals will also have to partner with e-waste recyclers and install collection points for used or damaged medical equipment.
9. How can hospitals and clinics incorporate sustainability principles in the procurement and usage of devices without compromising the quality of care?
Hospitals can also give preference to suppliers who use green manufacturing. Quality and long life should be first at procurement time, even if it’s more costly. We have started using reusable gowns and masks in certain wards, significantly cutting down biomedical waste. Correct equipment care prolongs its life and makes it more efficient—efficient for the economy and for the environment.
10. How aware do you think healthcare professionals and patients are about proper e-waste disposal practices?
Not nearly as much as there ought to be, unfortunately. Even big hospitals can have rules, but small clinics and patients may not have outlets to dispose of or know how to do so. Biomedical waste is serious enough, but electronic waste such as old monitors, BP machines, or nebulisers usually goes into landfills. Awareness programs and the incorporation of e-waste management into healthcare education and public awareness are urgent necessities.
11. What kind of awareness programs or policies would you suggest for responsibly managing e-waste generated through senior healthcare services?
Awareness must start at both ends—providers and users. Healthcare facilities should display clear information on where and how to dispose of devices safely. At the policy level, integrating e-waste responsibility into health regulations could make a big impact. We could also partner with local municipalities or NGOs to conduct “E-waste collection days” at hospitals or community centers, especially targeting seniors who may be using outdated devices at home.
12. What message would you like to share with fellow clinicians, policymakers, and the public about building a sustainable and senior-friendly healthcare system for the future?
We must realize that sustainability and senior care are not separate goals, they are deeply connected. A clean environment, efficient systems, and smart technology can enhance the quality of life for our elders. As clinicians, we must lead by example—by promoting rational use, reducing waste, and educating families. For policymakers, supporting green health initiatives and infrastructure is essential. And for the public—let’s remember that how we care for our elders today will shape how we are cared for tomorrow.