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24-January-2025-Editorial

January 24 @ 7:00 am - 11:30 pm

SENIOR CITIZENS IN INDIA

The Supreme Court of India recently refused to accept a petition that sought the creation of a dedicated ministry for senior citizens. The petition argued that elderly individuals constitute a vulnerable group and deserve special attention under Article 21 of the Constitution, which ensures the right to a dignified life. According to the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, a senior citizen is anyone aged 60 years or above.

Status of Senior Citizens in India

Current Trends:

  • India’s elderly population (60+) is expected to grow from 10.5% in 2022 to 20.8% by 2050.
  • By 2046, the number of senior citizens will surpass children (0-14 years), and the working-age population (15-59 years) will decline by 2050.

Rate of Ageing:

  • Between 2010 and 2020, India’s elderly population grew rapidly, doubling within 15 years.
  • The decadal growth rate of senior citizens increased from 31% (1981-1991) to 41% (2021-2031), showing accelerated aging.

Ageing Index:

  • The ageing index measures the number of elderly (60+ years) per 100 children (below 15 years), which was 39 in India in 2021.
  • Southern states have a higher ageing index due to lower fertility rates.

Old-Age Dependency Ratio:

  • In 2021, there were 16 elderly individuals per 100 working-age people in India.
  • The ratio was higher in southern India (20) compared to northeastern regions (13).

Life Expectancy:

  • The average life expectancy at age 60 is 18.3 years, with women living longer (19 years) than men (17.5 years).

Challenges Faced by Senior Citizens

  • Feminization of Aging: More elderly women than men, especially widows, often live alone and depend on family support.
  • Rural Aging: Nearly 71% of the elderly population lives in rural areas, facing limited healthcare access and financial insecurity.
  • Increase in Older Seniors (75+): The proportion of seniors aged 75+ is increasing, leading to greater demand for healthcare and caregiving services.
  • Financial Dependency: Only 11% of elderly men and 1.7% of women receive work pensions, while 27.4% of elderly women depend solely on social pensions. A significant number of elderly individuals have no income, making them financially vulnerable.
  • Healthcare Challenges: Many seniors suffer from chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes, requiring specialized geriatric care.
  • Employment Issues: Older individuals face challenges like age discrimination, outdated skills, and lower job opportunities.
  • Social Abuse: Seniors often experience neglect and abuse from family members, with cases going unreported due to fear or dependency.

Demographic Transition

Demographic transition refers to changes in birth and death rates over time, influencing population growth and aging.

Stages of Transition:

  • Stage 1: High birth and death rates result in a stable population.
  • Stage 2: Death rates decline while birth rates remain high, causing rapid population growth.
  • Stage 3: Birth rates begin to fall, slowing population growth.
  • Stage 4: Low birth and death rates lead to an aging population.

Government Initiatives for Senior Citizens

  • Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana: Aims to improve the quality of life of senior citizens through various welfare measures.
  • Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY): Provides physical aids and assistive devices to elderly individuals from economically weaker sections.
  • National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP): Offers financial support to the elderly living below the poverty line.
  • National Programme for the Healthcare of Elderly (NPHCE): Focuses on providing affordable healthcare services for seniors.
  • Atal Pension Yojana (APY): Ensures a steady pension for informal sector workers after retirement.

Way Forward

  • Elderly Self-Help Groups: Establish community-based groups to promote social engagement and financial support.
  • Promoting Multigenerational Living: Encourage family-based living arrangements to provide emotional support and shared responsibilities.
  • Technology and Digital Inclusion: Offer digital literacy programs to help seniors access online services and stay connected with society.
  • Healthcare Strengthening: Expand geriatric care services and telemedicine facilities for seniors in rural areas.
  • Expanding Pension Coverage: Broaden the reach of pension schemes to cover all elderly individuals and ensure financial security.
  • Policy Reforms: Introduce a separate workforce category for seniors to utilize their skills and experience in suitable job sectors.

By implementing these measures, India can create an inclusive and supportive environment for its aging population, ensuring dignity and quality of life for senior citizens.

Details

Date:
January 24
Time:
7:00 am - 11:30 pm
Event Category:
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