A Study on Ageing in India

Syllabus: Indian Society/ Government Policies and Interventions/ Vulnerable sections

Source: TH, TH

Context: The study titled ‘Ageing in India – Exploring Preparedness & Response to Care Challenges – A HelpAge India Report’ was released on the eve of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (15th June).

Key Findings of the Study (India):

• Working Status: Only 15% of elderly persons work, with 24% of males and just 7% of females, highlighting gender disparity.

• Lack of Social Security: Only 29% of elderly people have access to social security schemes.

• High Prevalence of Multiple Morbidities: 54% of elderly persons suffer from two or more non-communicable diseases.

• Digital Access: 59% have no access to a digital device.

• Social Participation: Minimal, with only 7% being members of any social organization.

India’s elderly population is rapidly growing due to improved healthcare and increased life expectancy. Currently at 153 million, it is projected to reach 347 million by 2050 (20.8% of the total population). As of Census 2011, older people (60+) make up 8.6% of the total population, with females outnumbering males among the elderly.

Policy recommendations from the “2023 India Ageing Report”:

Recommendations | Description

Address Gender-Specific Challenges | Policies should specifically address the challenges faced by older women, including widowed and dependent elderly women.

Promote In-Situ Aging | Encourage and facilitate ageing at home (in-situ ageing) where possible, ensuring that elderly individuals can stay within their communities.

Increase Awareness of Schemes | Raise awareness about government schemes and programs designed for older persons, ensuring they can access necessary support.

Regulate Old Age Homes | Implement regulatory measures to oversee Old Age Homes, ensuring the well-being and rights of residents.

Inclusion in Data Collection Exercises | Include relevant questions related to older persons in national data collection exercises to gather credible data on elderly issues.

Focus on Multigenerational Households | Encourage elderly individuals to live in multigenerational households, promoting better care and support within families.

Other aspects of Ageing:

Challenges faced by women in old age due to rising life expectancy and widowhood:

Challenges | Description

Financial Dependence | Limited access to employment opportunities, lower wages, and inadequate savings can lead to financial dependence in old age.

Deteriorating Health | Aging can bring deteriorating health, including chronic diseases, mobility issues, and mental health challenges.

Social Isolation | Older women, especially widows, may experience social isolation and loneliness due to the loss of a spouse and limited social networks.

Rural Situation | Older women in rural areas face unique challenges like limited access to healthcare, inadequate infrastructure, and caregiving or agricultural burdens.

Intersectionality | Women from marginalized communities may face compounded challenges in old age due to their socio-economic background, and tribal or minority status.

Ageism and Misogyny | Older women may encounter ageism and misogyny, leading to stereotypes, discrimination, and limited opportunities for engagement in various aspects of life.

Suggested measures:

Measures | Description

Social Security Systems | E.g., Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam is a women’s rights grant scheme just rolled out in Tamil Nadu aimed at providing financial support to eligible women recognized as heads of families

Karnataka Gruha Lakshmi Scheme supports women heads of families by providing eligible women will receive financial assistance of ₹2000 per month.

Intergenerational programs: Programs that promote intergenerational bonding, such as mentorship programs and community service projects

Access to Healthcare | Improve access to healthcare services, including geriatric care, preventive screenings, and mental health support, to address the specific health needs of older women.

Social Inclusion | Promote social inclusion and active participation of older women through community-based programs, intergenerational activities, and support networks.

Civil Society Engagement | Community-based initiatives and CSO engagement through Senior citizen clubs and programs, can provide social support and help prevent social isolation among the elderly

E.g. Asha Deep Foundation provides Day Care Centre for the elderly members of our community who are either neglected, have no children or are abandoned by their families.

Demographic Stability | Focus on policies and programs that address population ageing and the needs of older women, such as promoting family planning, women’s empowerment, and intergenerational solidarity.

Community-based care system for elders | ASHA program could be used for building a community-based workforce to support the diverse health and social care needs of elders

Age-friendly cities | Cities can be designed to be age-friendly, with infrastructure and public spaces that are accessible to all, including elderly citizens.

Government Scheme for Old Age:

Scheme | About

National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) | Offers non-contributory pensions for the elderly, widowed women, and disabled individuals. Administered by the Ministry of Rural Development.

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) | Exclusive pension scheme for senior citizens aged 60 and above. Extended up to 2023 for three more years beyond 2020.

Integrated Program for Older Persons (IPOP) | Aims to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens by providing basic amenities such as food, shelter, medical care, and entertainment opportunities.

Rashtriya Vayoshree Yojana | Central sector scheme funded by the Senior Citizens’ Welfare Fund. Provides aids and assistive living devices to elderly BPL individuals with age-related disabilities.

SAMPANN Project | Launched in 2018, an online pension processing system for Department of Telecommunications pensioners. Direct credit of pension into bank accounts of pensioners.

SACRED Portal for Elderly | Developed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Citizens above 60 can register to find jobs and work opportunities, and access information and guidance on various issues.

Elder Line: Toll-Free Number for Elderly | Provides information, guidance, emotional support, and immediate assistance for elderly citizens, particularly on pension, medical, and legal matters.

SAGE (Seniorcare Ageing Growth Engine) Initiative | A platform offering access to elderly care products and services by credible start-ups, supporting entrepreneurship in the field of elderly care.

Conclusion:

By recognizing the specific needs of older persons and providing targeted support, we can create a society that values and empowers them, ensuring their well-being and active participation in all spheres of life.

Insta Links:

• Issues related to Elderly People

• old age care

• World Population Prospects

Mains Links:

Despite Consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive. (UPSC 2021)