Critical issues and challenges faced by the elderly population in India
A study by HelpAge India of a cross-section of elders across the country found that only 15% of them had a source of income. Among them, 24% were men and 7% were women.
Around 29% were supported by their children financially. At least 79% of the elders surveyed used government hospitals, and only 31% had health insurance.
Very few among those surveyed (15%) knew of the existence of exclusive geriatric facilities
Among those surveyed, one in every three, irrespective of the city they lived in, reported no income in the past year, and 31% of the respondents in the 60-69 year age group, 36% in the 71-79 year age group, and 37% in the 80 year age group reported no income in the past year.
Although the elderly had many health issues, only 31% had active health insurance schemes.
As many as 54% of all elderly studied had two or more non-communicable diseases (NCD), while 20% had no NCD. Around 26% had at least one NCD.
Most respondents over 80 years old had two or more NCDs.
Around 48% of the respondents had high blood pressure, and 43% were diabetic.
Over a third of the respondents had arthritis, osteoporosis, or other bone and joint diseases.
As many as 19% of respondents had high cholesterol.
On average, an outpatient visit costs an elderly person ₹1,973.
Caregivers for the elderly also face challenges.
Around 29% said there were physical challenges while providing care.
They also faced financial challenges.
Only 7% of those who were surveyed were part of any social organisation.
Men more than women were part of such organisations, and it varied with their place of residence and socio-economic categories.
Initiatives Related to Welfare of Senior Citizens
National Policy on Older Persons (NPOP): The Policy envisages State support to ensure financial and food security, health care, shelter and other needs of older persons, equitable share in development, protection against abuse and exploitation, and availability of services to improve the quality of their lives
Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY): It is a Central Sector Scheme funded by the Senior Citizens’ Welfare Fund.
Elderline: The National Helpline for Senior Citizen (14567)-Elderline in 2021.
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