Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India is undergoing a demographic transition, characterized by declining fertility rates and increasing life expectancy. This is leading to a rapidly growing proportion of elderly citizens. ‘Ageing’ is no longer merely a biological process but is increasingly recognized as a significant social issue, particularly in developing countries like India. According to the Census of India 2011, the population aged 60 years and above constituted 8.6% of the total population, and projections indicate this will rise to nearly 20% by 2050. This demographic shift presents both opportunities and challenges, demanding a comprehensive understanding of the problems faced by the elderly and proactive policy interventions.
The Emerging Issue of Ageing in India
The increasing proportion of elderly in India signifies an emerging social issue due to several factors. Firstly, the traditional joint family system, which historically provided social security for the elderly, is weakening due to urbanization, migration, and changing socio-economic conditions. Secondly, the lack of comprehensive social security schemes and inadequate healthcare infrastructure specifically tailored to the needs of the elderly exacerbate their vulnerabilities. Finally, societal attitudes towards the elderly, often characterized by neglect and disrespect, contribute to their marginalization.
Major Problems Faced by the Old Age People in India
1. Economic Problems
- Poverty and Financial Insecurity: A significant proportion of the elderly, particularly in the unorganized sector, lack adequate pension or savings, leading to economic hardship.
- Lack of Employment Opportunities: Limited opportunities for continued employment or engagement in productive activities contribute to financial dependence.
- Rising Healthcare Costs: Chronic illnesses and age-related health problems necessitate frequent medical attention, placing a substantial financial burden on the elderly and their families.
2. Social Problems
- Social Isolation and Loneliness: The breakdown of joint family systems and migration of younger generations lead to social isolation and loneliness among the elderly.
- Elder Abuse: Physical, emotional, and financial abuse of the elderly is a growing concern, often perpetrated by family members.
- Lack of Social Support: Inadequate access to social support networks and community-based services exacerbates their vulnerability.
- Changing Values: The erosion of traditional values of respect for elders contributes to their marginalization.
3. Healthcare Problems
- Limited Access to Healthcare: Geographical barriers, financial constraints, and lack of specialized geriatric care facilities hinder access to quality healthcare.
- Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: The elderly are more susceptible to chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular ailments, requiring ongoing medical management.
- Mental Health Issues: Depression, anxiety, and dementia are common among the elderly, often undiagnosed and untreated.
4. Psychological Problems
- Loss of Independence: Age-related physical and cognitive decline can lead to a loss of independence and self-esteem.
- Fear of Abandonment: The fear of being abandoned by family members or becoming a burden contributes to psychological distress.
- Grief and Loss: The loss of spouses, friends, and family members can lead to grief and emotional trauma.
Government Initiatives and Policies
The Indian government has launched several initiatives to address the needs of the elderly, including:
| Scheme/Policy | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| National Policy on Older Persons | 1999 | Provides a framework for addressing the needs of the elderly in areas such as healthcare, social security, and financial assistance. |
| Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) | 2007 | Provides a monthly pension to elderly individuals below the poverty line. |
| Rashtriya Vridhajan Suraksha Yojana (RVSSY) | 2006 | Provides a fixed deposit scheme with a higher interest rate for elderly citizens. |
However, the coverage and effectiveness of these schemes remain limited, and there is a need for greater investment in geriatric care and social security infrastructure.
Conclusion
Ageing is undeniably an emerging issue in Indian society, driven by demographic shifts and socio-economic changes. The elderly face a multitude of interconnected problems – economic insecurity, social isolation, healthcare challenges, and psychological distress. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach involving strengthening social security systems, improving healthcare access, promoting intergenerational solidarity, and fostering a more inclusive and respectful society. Investing in the well-being of the elderly is not only a moral imperative but also crucial for harnessing the experience and wisdom of this growing segment of the population.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.