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29th September 2023 (9 Topics)

Caring for the old

Context:

According to the United Nations Population Fund's India Ageing Report 2023, India's elderly population is set to double by 2050, reaching 20.8% of the total population. The report highlights the implications of this demographic change for various aspects of society, including healthcare, the economy, and social welfare.

Rising Elderly Population

  • Demographic Shift: India's elderly population is increasing significantly. It's projected to double by 2050, reaching 20.8% of the population, posing challenges for health, economy, and society.
  • Gender Disparities: Women make up a larger proportion of elderly citizens in India, and their economic and social security is crucial.
  • Inter-State Variations: There are regional disparities, with southern states having a higher share of the elderly population. Some states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh will also see an increase, but at a lower rate.

Economic Disparities and Support

  • Income Inequality: Over 40% of the elderly belong to the poorest wealth quintile, with significant income disparities across states.
  • Rural Elderly: A substantial rural elderly population faces economic deprivation. Comprehensive support is needed, including health care, income security, and social care.
  • Awareness and Accessibility: Many elderly individuals are unaware of or find it difficult to access existing government schemes. Public and private policies must create a more supportive environment.

Suggestive measures

  • Promote Programmes and Policies: It emphasizes the need for public and private policies to create a more supportive environment for the elderly population to ensure they can live in dignity and security.
  • Elderly healthcare planning: It also calls for a comprehensive and inclusive approach, including tailored healthcare for the elderly, addressing income disparities, and improving awareness and accessibility of government schemes for senior citizens.
  • Challenges persist: This demographic shift and challenges posed by India's rapidly growing elderly population.
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