• UGI USER
  • Apr 29, 2024
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PREPARATION FOR AN AGING POPULATION

SYLLABUS:

  • GS 3: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
  • Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.

Focus:

  • The sex ratio of older people is projected to increase to 1060 by 2026.
Source: IE

India’s demographic landscape is shifting, with the elderly population projected to more than double by 2036, rising from 100 million to 230 million and constituting nearly 15% of the total population.

Preparation for an Aging Population

  • Demographic Shifts: India’s population of individuals over 60 years is expected to grow significantly, from 100 million in 2011 to 230 million in 2036, reaching nearly 15% of the total population.
  • Increasing Longevity: Due to declining fertility rates and longer life spans, the aging population is expanding, necessitating adjustments in social and healthcare systems.
  • Family Dynamics: The average household size has reduced, increasing the need for external caregiving services for the elderly, who often live with chronic illnesses.
  • Home Care Expansion: Home care services have evolved to include not only assistance with daily activities but also routine and specialized nursing care.
  • Market Growth: The home-based care industry is projected to grow substantially, highlighting the increasing demand and economic potential of this sector.

Challenges   

  • Increased spending on healthcare facilities: India faces a challenge of increased spending on healthcare facilities due to a significant portion of the senior population lacking health insurance, leading to higher out-of-pocket medical expenses.
  • Decreased income security: India’s limited social security system, allocating just 1% of GDP to pensions, poses challenges for elderly individuals to maintain financial stability.
  • Feminization of ageing: Population ageing exacerbates the “Feminization of Aging,” where more women outlive men, highlighting gender-specific challenges in elder care and support.
  • Lack of geriatric facilities: There’s a noticeable urban-rural gap in the availability of tertiary hospital facilities for the elderly, leading to unmet healthcare needs, with a significant portion experiencing depressive symptoms.
  • Reduced quality workforce: The declining working-age population can result in a shortage of skilled workers, impacting productivity and economic growth.
  • Increase in dependency ratio: As the proportion of older individuals rises, there’s a strain on the smaller labor force to support increased healthcare expenses, pension benefits, and other publicly supported services, necessitating higher taxes.

Policy Recommendations

  • Legal Recognition and Regulation: Policies should recognize home settings as legitimate environments for healthcare provision and define clear terms for caregiver employment.
  • Training and Professional Development: Streamline vocational training for caregivers to ensure a steady supply of qualified professionals.
  • Comprehensive Policy Framework: Establish a comprehensive policy that includes a registry of providers, transparency, accountability, and insurance coverage.
  • Special Considerations for Women: Tailor policies to address the needs of older women, who often outlive their spouses and may face unique challenges.
  • Inter-ministerial Collaboration: Encourage cooperation among various ministries to implement and enforce these reforms effectively.

Revision of the National Policy on Senior Citizens 2011

The National Policy for Senior Citizens 2011 was developed based on several key considerations:

  • Demographic Changes: Recognizing the increasing number of elderly populations as a significant demographic shift.
  • Socio-Economic Shifts: Addressing changes in the economy and social settings that affect senior citizens.
  • Advancements in Science and Technology: Incorporating the progress in medical sciences and technology to better cater to the health needs of the elderly.
  • Vulnerability Factors: Highlighting the plight of the elderly, especially the destitute and those in rural areas, to ensure their inclusion and support.

The policy aimed to integrate the concerns of senior citizens, particularly older women, into national development discussions. It emphasized the concept of “Ageing in Place,” promoting the ability for seniors to age comfortably in their own homes. Key areas of focus included stable housing, income security, accessible healthcare insurance, and homecare services to uphold dignity in old age.

Interventions Under the Policy:

  • Microfinance: Provision of low-interest loans to senior citizens to start small businesses, supported by regulations from the Reserve Bank of India. This approach seeks to empower the elderly financially and support their independence.
  • Taxation Relief: Implementation of tax policies sensitive to the economic challenges faced by the elderly, particularly those relating to high medical and caregiving expenses, and necessary support services like transportation.
  • Safety Measures: Establishment of strict penalties for elder abuse. Enhancing community awareness and policing efforts to protect against crimes directed at vulnerable seniors, including widows, those living alone, and those with disabilities.

Addressing the needs of an aging population is essential for maintaining societal balance and ensuring that all citizens can live with dignity and support in their later years.

Government Schemes

Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana for the Elderly:

  • Central Sector scheme utilizing funds from the Senior Citizens’ Welfare Fund.
  • Provides support and assisted living devices to BPL elderly with age-related disabilities.
  • Implemented by Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation (ALIMCO), a PSU under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) for the Elderly:

  • Pension Scheme for individuals aged 60 and above.
  • Offers assured pension with a guaranteed return rate of 8% per year.
  • Subscribers pay a lump sum amount ranging from Rs 1,50,000 to Rs 7,50,000 for monthly pensions between Rs 1000 to Rs 5000.

SACRED Portal for Elderly:

  • Online employment exchange platform by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
  • Enables job search and employment opportunities for individuals aged 60 and above.
  • Aims to promote productive ageing by connecting senior citizens with job opportunities.

SAGE Project:

  • Initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
  • Provides access to aged care goods and services through a centralized portal.
  • Facilitates start-ups offering aged care services and connects them with stakeholders.

Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme:

  • Offers Rs. 200 per month for individuals aged 60-79 and Rs. 500 per month for those aged 80 and above.
  • Aimed at providing financial support to elderly individuals.
  • Elder Line: Elderly Toll-Free Number:
  • Provides urgent assistance, information, advice, and emotional support for the elderly.
  • Addresses pension, medical, and legal matters.
  • A nationwide toll-free platform for elderly individuals to seek help and support.

Source:Indian Express

Mains Practice Question:

“Discuss the implications of India’s growing elderly population on its socio-economic structures. Evaluate the challenges faced in providing effective home-based care to seniors and suggest comprehensive policy measures to address these challenges. Highlight the need for specialized attention towards older single women in your discussion.”

Associated Articles:

https://universalinstitutions.com/elderly-population-in-india/

https://universalinstitutions.com/demography-census/