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Picture a typical Indian family, where both spouses are working professionals. They have elderly parents who now face health challenges that come with ageing. Working professionals in India often feel a deep sense of guilt for not being able to spend more time with their elderly parents. They recognise their parents' immense sacrifices and desire to reciprocate, but the demands of their careers and the pressures of modern life make it challenging to balance work and family responsibilities. The traditional Indian culture, which places a high value on filial piety and the care of elders, can worsen this guilt, as working professionals may feel judged if they cannot provide the level of care deemed necessary. Despite these challenges, they strive to be a source of love, support, and companionship for their parents, even if they cannot fulfil every need.
This scenario is becoming increasingly common in India, highlighting the urgent need for an evolved and specialised geriatric care system that can meet the diverse needs of the elderly.
Shifting Demographics
India is experiencing a significant demographic shift, with the elderly population expected to nearly triple by 2050, reaching approximately 320 million. This change is not just a statistic but a reflection of the growing challenges in healthcare, financial security, and social inclusion for the elderly. The traditional joint family structure, which historically provided care for the elderly, is eroding, leaving many seniors vulnerable and in need of external support. The National Policy on Older Persons (NPOP), established in 1999, continues to guide the government’s approach to senior welfare, but the evolving needs of seniors require more than just policy guidance; they demand action and innovation.
The Role of Government Initiatives
Recognising the growing needs of the elderly, the Indian government has introduced several initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges. The Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), for instance, provides health coverage to all senior citizens in India who are 70 years of age or older are covered regardless of their income. The scheme provides a free health insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh per family ensuring access to essential medical treatments. The Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS) under the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) offers health insurance to seniors in lower-income groups, acting as a crucial safety net in the country
Additionally, the SACRED (Senior Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity) Portal connects elderly citizens with employment opportunities in the private sector, helping them remain financially independent and engaged in the workforce. The Senior Ageing Growth Engine (SAGE) Initiative also supports the development of products and services tailored for senior citizens, fostering innovation in the "silver economy".
One significant area that often goes overlooked is the impact of GST on senior citizens. While the government has implemented various exemptions and concessions to reduce the burden of GST on essential goods and services, there is a need for further analysis to ensure that these measures are effectively benefiting the elderly population. By conducting a comprehensive review of the GST structure and its implications for senior citizens, the government can identify areas where additional reforms are necessary to alleviate their financial burden.
While these initiatives are significant, the challenges of geriatric care cannot be fully addressed by government policies alone. A strong collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for India to make rapid strides in improving senior care. For example, offering government incentives to startups focusing on senior care solutions can spur innovation in this field. Additionally, partnerships between NGOs specialising in senior care and public hospitals are vital for effectively allocating resources to community-based programs.
The Tech Advantage
Technology is increasingly playing a pivotal role in the care of the elderly. Startups are creating cutting-edge solutions such as remote diagnostic tools and AI-driven platforms that enhance home care coordination. These innovations not only improve the quality of care but also make it more accessible and affordable for a larger segment of the population.
For instance, an elderly person living in a remote village with limited access to healthcare facilities can now receive timely medical consultations and continuous health monitoring through telemedicine services and remote monitoring devices. This is especially important in a country like India, where the elderly population is spread across both urban and rural areas.
Financial Security and The Need for Reform
Financial security remains a major concern for the elderly in India, especially for those who have worked in the unorganised sector and do not have sufficient savings. The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) provides financial assistance to seniors living below the poverty line, helping them meet their basic needs. However, more needs to be done to ensure that all elderly citizens have a secure financial future.
The NITI Aayog's Senior Care Reforms Report has emphasised the need for comprehensive reforms, including tax incentives for families supporting elderly members and the expansion of pension schemes to cover a broader section of the population. These recommendations highlight the importance of viewing senior care not just as a policy matter but as a moral and social responsibility.
The Road Ahead
India’s response to the challenges of senior care must go beyond government policy to embrace the nation’s innovative spirit and entrepreneurial energy. The future of geriatric care in India lies in a collaborative approach that leverages the strengths of both the public and private sectors. By fostering partnerships, encouraging innovation, and ensuring that seniors have access to quality care and financial security, we can build a society where our elderly citizens are valued, respected, and well-cared for.
Caring for our seniors is not just about providing medical care or financial support. It’s about ensuring they live with dignity, independence, and a sense of purpose. In doing so, we honour their contributions and build a more compassionate society for all.
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