All Things Policy Seniorcare: Planning for India's Elderly
Nov 7, 2025
Sowmya Prabhakar, the Chief Operations Officer at the Takshashila Institution, shares her insights as a primary caregiver. She and Malathi Renati explore India's demographic shift and increasing senior population. They discuss the emerging 'silver economy' and the vital role of assistive technologies. The conversation also touches on healthcare access challenges, financial preparedness, and societal changes affecting senior care. Together, they emphasize the necessity of active aging policies and community solutions to support the elderly.
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Demographic Shift Is Rapid And Unavoidable
- India's senior population (60+) will rise sharply by 2050 as fertility falls below replacement rate.
- This demographic shift will reduce the youth share and raise median age, changing care needs and social support structures.
Health Risks Amplify Aging Challenges
- Indians face higher burdens from age-related chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension and dementia.
- These predispositions increase healthcare demand and long-term care needs for seniors.
Constitutional And Legal Safety Nets Exist
- Article 41 of the Constitution directs the state to ensure public assistance in old age and laws like the 2007 Senior Citizens Act create legal safety nets.
- These legal frameworks respond to rising neglect and abuse, especially among widowed and uneducated women.