Published on: June 27, 2023

On 14th June 2023, the eve of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, HelpAge India organised the Launch of National Report on “Women & Ageing: Invisible or Empowered?” at India International Centre, Lodhi Estate, Delhi. The event included members of the Helpage India Board, IPSOS representative, government representatives from National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE) and, most importantly, more than 150 elderly community members.  Dr. Preeti Chauhan (Head-National Policy, Pallium India) represented Pallium India at the event.

Pallium India’s work, particularly the geriatric and home based palliative care, was highlighted in the panel discussion and shared with all. 

Women & Ageing: Invisible or Empowered? is a first of its kind report focusing only on older women, who are often the lost and the last in line, where their needs and rights are concerned.

The report revealed an alarming trend regarding abuse against older women, which seemed to be on the rise at a disturbing 16%. 53% of the older women do not feel financially secure. Of the 47% who ‘do’ feel secure, 79% are dependent on their children for finances. 66% older women in India don’t own any assets, 75% older women do not have any savings.

A significant 48% of older women have at least one chronic condition, yet 64% older women have reported not having any health insurance. 67% older women still undertake caregiving roles in their families, while 36% older women are not able to manage the burden of caregiving.

The report can be found at: https://www.helpageindia.org/weaad2023/