Addressing barriers to improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) access for the promotion of healthy ageing among older persons in Ghana

This paper focuses on improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) access among older persons. Despite the importance of WASH access, information on this topic among ageing populations in Global South contexts like Ghana remains scant. Through a review of literature, this conceptual paper discusses the intersection between improved WASH access and healthy ageing with emphasis on essential components of the former and its implications for promoting older persons’ health and wellbeing in Ghana. Also, it discusses the physical, structural, social, and financial barriers that could hinder WASH access among older persons. Employing the ecological systems framework, the paper proposes some solutions that could address the barriers and suggests the need for empirical evidence to inform policy. The authors conclude that improved WASH access could enhance the health, dignity, and autonomy of older persons, and ultimately contribute to their overall quality of life. Furthermore, the article highlights the role of social work practitioners as well as the importance of inclusive and sustainable WASH policies that address the unique needs of older persons.