30 Apr Challenges faced by elderly population
THIS ARTICLE COVERS ‘DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS’ AND THE TOPIC DETAILS OF “Challenges faced by elderly population ”. THIS TOPIC IS RELEVANT IN THE “Society” SECTION OF THE UPSC CSE EXAM.
Why in the news?
Amidst the fervent discourse surrounding India’s demographic dividend, a less noticed trend is the steady growth of the older population within the country. Overlooked in the midst of discussions about the youthful workforce, the number of individuals aged 60 and above is quietly increasing. From 100 million in 2011, this demographic segment is poised to more than double, reaching 230 million by 2036, constituting almost 15 percent of the nation’s total populace. Projections indicate a further surge to 319 million by 2050, accounting for nearly one-fifth of the entire population.
Context
The shift towards an aging population in India is propelled by declining fertility rates and lengthening life expectancy. Notably, the average household size has markedly reduced from 5.94 individuals in 2011 to 3.54 in 2021.
This trend signifies a significant departure from traditional family structures and poses challenges for the health and social care systems. With fewer family members available to provide care and an increasing number of older individuals susceptible to chronic illnesses, there is a pressing need to reevaluate how we approach eldercare.
The blurred distinction between social and health care complicates matters further, particularly regarding home-based care for seniors. As families adapt to these changing dynamics, there is a growing reliance on external support systems to assist in caring for older relatives at home.
Challenges faced by elderly population
Healthcare Access and Affordability: Aging is often accompanied by increased healthcare needs due to chronic conditions, disabilities, and age-related ailments. However, access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare services can be limited for elderly individuals, particularly in rural areas or for those without adequate insurance coverage.
Social Isolation and Loneliness: As individuals age, they may experience diminishing social networks due to factors such as retirement, loss of friends and family, or physical limitations. Social isolation and loneliness can have serious repercussions on mental and emotional well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.
Financial Insecurity: Many elderly individuals face financial challenges, including inadequate retirement savings, rising healthcare costs, and limited earning opportunities post-retirement. Economic insecurity can exacerbate stress and impact access to essential goods and services.
Elder Abuse and Neglect: Vulnerable older adults are at risk of various forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, financial, and neglect. Abuse may occur within families, care facilities, or communities, often due to factors such as dependency, power imbalances, or lack of awareness and resources for prevention and intervention.
Ageism and Discrimination: Negative stereotypes and discrimination based on age, known as ageism, can marginalize older adults and limit their opportunities for employment, social participation, and access to resources. Ageism can also influence healthcare decisions and treatment options, leading to disparities in care.
Digital Divide: As technology becomes increasingly integral to daily life, older adults who are not proficient in using digital devices or accessing online services may face challenges in staying connected, accessing information, and participating in activities such as telehealth appointments or online banking.
Housing and Transportation: Adequate housing options that are affordable, accessible, and age-friendly can be scarce for older adults, particularly those with mobility issues or disabilities. Additionally, limited access to transportation services can restrict mobility and independence, making it challenging for elderly individuals to access essential services and social activities.
Steps taken by government
The Indian government has implemented various measures to support elderly people in the country. Some of the key steps taken include:
- National Policy for Older Persons (NPOP): The Government of India formulated the NPOP in 1999 to address the welfare needs of senior citizens. The policy aims to ensure financial security, healthcare, and social support for the elderly.
- Integrated Programme for Older Persons (IPOP): Under the socia justice ministry, the IPOP provides financial assistance to NGOs for running old age homes, day care centers, and mobile medicare units for the elderly.
- National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP): The NSAP includes the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS), which provides monthly pensions to eligible senior citizens living below the poverty line.
- Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana: Launched in 2017, this scheme provides assistive living devices like walking sticks, hearing aids, and spectacles free of cost to senior citizens living below the poverty line.
- Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007: This legislation mandates adult children to provide maintenance to their elderly parents if they are unable to support themselves financially. It also provides for setting up old age homes and mechanisms for speedy resolution of disputes.
- Healthcare Initiatives: The government operates various healthcare programs aimed at elderly citizens, including the National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE), which focuses on providing accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services to senior citizens.
- Pension Schemes: Apart from the IGNOAPS, various pension schemes, including the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) and the Atal Pension Yojana (APY), provide financial security to elderly citizens, including those from the organized and unorganized sectors.
- Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS): This savings scheme, launched by the government, offers a high rate of interest and tax benefits to senior citizens, providing them with a secure investment option.
- Awareness and Empowerment Programs: The government conducts awareness campaigns and empowerment programs aimed at educating elderly citizens about their rights, entitlements, and available support services.
- Old Age Homes and Day Care Centers: The government supports the establishment and maintenance of old age homes and day care centers, providing residential and day care facilities to elderly citizens who are destitute or in need of care and protection.
Way forward
An essential step is to acknowledge the dual role of “home” as both a caregiving space and a workplace for caregivers. This recognition holds significance for safeguarding the rights and ensuring the safety of both care recipients and providers. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) acknowledges the concept of home-based hospitalization under specific conditions, indicating a shift towards legitimizing home care as a viable healthcare option.
It is crucial to recognize that providing care at home differs significantly from care in institutional settings like hospitals or nursing homes. Treatment plans and engagement strategies must be adapted to suit the unique dynamics and environment of home-based care.
In response to the escalating demand for skilled caregivers, it’s imperative to standardize their vocational training, job titles, responsibilities, and opportunities for career advancement. This standardization will enhance the quality of care provided and ensure consistency across caregiving services.
Promoting Healthy Aging: Investing in preventive healthcare programs and initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles can help reduce the burden of chronic diseases and disabilities among older adults, thereby enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.
Ensuring Social Inclusion: Creating age-friendly communities and fostering intergenerational connections can help combat social isolation and loneliness among older adults. Encouraging participation in social activities, volunteer programs, and community events can promote a sense of belonging and purpose.
Enhancing Financial Security: Implementing policies that ensure adequate income support, pension schemes, and social security benefits for older adults can alleviate financial strain and improve their economic stability. Additionally, promoting financial literacy and access to affordable banking and insurance services can empower older adults to manage their finances effectively.
Preventing Elder Abuse: Strengthening legal frameworks, raising awareness, and providing support services for victims of elder abuse can help prevent and address instances of mistreatment, neglect, and exploitation.
Improving Access to Healthcare Services: Expanding healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural and underserved areas, and enhancing access to affordable and quality healthcare services tailored to the needs of older adults can improve health outcomes and promote active aging.
Facilitating Lifelong Learning and Skill Development: Offering opportunities for lifelong learning, skill development, and vocational training tailored to the interests and capabilities of older adults can enable them to stay engaged, productive, and socially connected.
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