The global population aged 60 and above is
projected to reach nearly 2.1 billion by 2050 (WHO, 2021). In India, older adults
currently constitute over 10% of the population, approximately 104 million
individuals, with estimates predicting this figure will rise to 158 million by
2025 and 319 million by 2050. By 2100, this demographic is expected to surpass
550 million, representing over 36% of the national population (India Ageing
Report, 2023; World Population Prospects, 2022). This demographic shift brings
significant socio-economic and healthcare challenges, including increased
vulnerabilities to chronic diseases, financial dependence, social exclusion,
and abuse, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper attempts to explore
the socio-economic conditions of elderly population and challenges experienced
by them.
The
demographic condition of the country exhibits that southern states are ahead of
others in terms of demographic transition than the northern counterparts. Hence,
the share of ageing population is also higher in the southern states. As per
the educational status, illiteracy remains high, with 71.5% of elderly women
and 40.9% of men lacking formal education. Economic vulnerabilities are also
stark, as only one-fifth of retired elderly receive pensions, and the majority
are engaged in informal sectors without post-retirement benefits. Factors like
modernization, urbanization, migration of youth population and erosion of
traditional values has affected the living arrangements of the older adults and
they often become vulnerable to loneliness, isolation and abuse. Approximately
6% of older adults live alone, with elderly women more likely to experience
isolation and neglect. Abuse, both emotional and physical, is often perpetrated
by close family members, with daughters-in-law and sons being primary abusers.
India’s ageing population demands urgent policy interventions focusing on
healthcare, social security, and economic inclusion. Programs such as Rashtriya
Vayoshree Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana, and Seniorcare Ageing
Growth Engine (SAGE) initiative aim to address these concerns. However, effective
implementation, increased awareness, and enhanced support systems are essential
to ensure the well-being and dignity of India’s elderly population in the
decades to come.
