CHALLENGES FACED BY THE ELDERLY IN INDIA

Abstract

Aging is a natural process of life cycle. In India the elderly population is growing rapidly. It is estimated that by 2050 India will be home to 240 million aged citizens. Having elders can be a blessing to the younger ones as they have wisdom, knowledge and experience which they can share it with the younger generation. But it also poses serious challenges which needs urgent attention. Financial insecurity, social isolation, abuse, health issues, digital exclusion and demographic change are some of the challenges faced by the elderly. Through this paper the authors would like to put some light on the plight of the elders so that the policymakers, healthcare providers and society at large can come up with certain policies or welfare programs. Further it will help in creating an environment that promotes the well-being and dignity of its elderly citizens.