Understanding the Importance of Elderly Care and Support for their Well-being: Review

Description

Page: 755-760

Bijayalaxmi Panda (State Lead-Partnerships, The Antara Foundation, NHM, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh)

Human life is typically divided into distinct stages such as infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age. In India, according to the Senior Citizens Bill of 2007, a senior citizen is defined as any individual who is at least 60 years old. As individuals age, they face a range of challenges that vary across three phases of old age: young old (60-74), old-old (75-85), and the oldest old (85 & above). The World Health Organization’s (WHO) World Report on Ageing and Health (2015) highlights that the global population of people aged 60 or older is projected to nearly double between 2015 and 2050, increasing from 12% to 22%. This demographic shift will have profound implications for socio-economic structures and healthcare systems. The elderly face a range of challenges not only related to physical health but also to mental, social, psychological, housing, and economic well-being. These challenges are particularly pronounced in family settings, communities, and old age homes. Society often perceives older individuals as frail or dependent, which can contribute to ageist attitudes and stereotypes. Such perceptions can lead to discrimination, influence policy development, and limit the opportunities available to older individuals to experience healthy aging. This paper aims to highlight the diverse challenges faced by the elderly across these three age categories, while also focusing on key government initiatives-both at the central and state levels-that aim to improve their welfare. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of solutions and opportunities at the individual, family, community, and societal levels, advocating for the engagement of various stakeholders in promoting the well-being of the elderly.