Ageing in India: Actionable Solutions
India’s elderly population currently stands at approximately 149 million (2022) and is expected to reach 347 million by 2050. This age group is very diverse. While many present several challenges, others have the capacity to contribute meaningfully to society. This offers a chance to harness the wisdom, skills, and experience of older generations for societal progress.
The Seminar on Ageing in India: Actionable Solutions, held on December 18, 2024, at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, aimed to gather recommendations and insights to shape policy on ageing in India. The event was organized by National Human Rights Commission in collaboration with the Sankala Foundation, in partnership with NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Dr. Preeti Chauhan (Head, National Policy Department) and Mr. Syed Askari (Regional Facilitator, National Facilitation) represented Pallium India at this seminar, contributing their expertise and insights to the discussion.
Key Takeaways
1. Uniform National Program: The need for a uniform national program for elderly care was emphasized, with an integrated approach to address the complex needs of the elderly.
2. Health and Nutrition: Targeted interventions for the poor, access to healthcare, and nutrition were highlighted as critical aspects of elderly care.
3. Economic Security: The importance of economic security, social inclusion, and quality of life for the elderly was stressed.
4. Technology and Digital Space: The role of technology and digital platforms in senior care was discussed, including digital awareness, online platforms, and mobile apps.
5. Capacity Building and Caregiving: The need for capacity building, caregiving as a profession, and unlocking carer support were emphasized.
Recommendations
1. Integrate Ayurveda and Palliative Care: Integrate Ayurveda and palliative care into the national healthcare system to provide holistic care for the elderly.
2. Develop Comprehensive Senior Care Models: Develop comprehensive senior care models that address the physical, emotional, and social needs of the elderly.
3. Promote Intergenerational Learning: Promote intergenerational learning and bonding through programs that bring together older adults and younger generations.
4. Develop National Silver Service Portal: Develop a national silver service portal to connect senior citizens with services and opportunities that cater to their needs.
Expert Insights
Dr. V.K. Paul, Member of NITI Aayog, emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges of ageing in India and urgent need to change current systems in place.
Dr. Rama Baru, Professor at the Centre for Social Medicine and Community Health, Jawaharlal Nehru University, highlighted the importance of targeted interventions for the poor, access to healthcare and nutrition, and the need for palliative care and end-of-life care integration into primary healthcare systems and practices for better accessibility. She gave most important highlights on the best practices from Singapore, China and Hongkong.
Dr. Tanuja Nesari, Director, National Institute of Social Defence, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, discussed the need for a national policy on older persons and the importance of integrating Ayurveda and palliative care into the national healthcare system.
Best Practices from Around the World
South Korea: The country has implemented a comprehensive long-term care system, which includes home care, institutional care, and community-based care.
Japan: Japan has implemented a number of initiatives to support older adults, including the development of age-friendly communities and the promotion of intergenerational learning.
Singapore: Singapore has implemented a number of initiatives to support older adults, including the development of age-friendly communities and the promotion of active ageing.
China and Hong Kong: The speakers also highlighted the best practices from China and Hong Kong, emphasizing the importance of community-based care, social support, and age-friendly infrastructure integration into primary healthcare setups.
The speakers urged policymakers to look towards East Asian and Asian methods for care of the elderly, rather than relying solely on Western practices, which have often failed to address the unique needs and challenges of India’s elderly population.
The seminar provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss actionable solutions for addressing the complex needs of India’s ageing population. The recommendations and insights gathered during the seminar will inform future policy frameworks and social programs, ensuring the dignity, health, and participation of older adults in society.
Way Forward
The seminar marked the beginning of a journey towards creating a more age-friendly society in India. The recommendations and insights gathered during the seminar will be compiled into a comprehensive report, which will be submitted to the government and other stakeholders. The need for including important stakeholders like central ministries including Ministry of Health and Family Welfare was also highlighted and noted.
(Prepared by Dr Preeti Chauhan, Department Head – National Policy, Pallium India.)
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