​Govt policies for senior citizens to get a makeover: Key points​

Nov 23, 2024

TOI Lifestyle Desk

​The Ministry of Social Justice mulls revamp of two policies​

Two old policies related to senior citizens- over 25 years old- are set to get a refresh as the government aims to boost the silver economy.​

​What are the two policies?​

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is planning to amend the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007 and the National Policy for Older Persons 1999.​

​The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007​

This aims to ensure the effective care and welfare of parents and senior citizens. The legislation establishes a legal duty for children and heirs to provide financial support to senior citizens and parents through monthly allowances.​

​Safeguards the life and property of elderly​

It offers a straightforward, efficient, and affordable mechanism to safeguard the life and property of older persons. After being approved by the Indian Parliament, the Act received presidential assent on December 29, 2007.​

​The National Policy on Older Persons (NPOP), 1999​

It aims to ensure financial and food security, access to healthcare, adequate shelter, and protection against abuse and exploitation, while promoting an equitable share in development.​

​Addresses key issues​

The policy emphasizes improving the quality of life for older persons through various services. It also addresses key issues such as social security, fostering intergenerational bonding.​

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“This shows very clearly the intent and the way the government is preparing the country for the senior citizens,” Amit Yadav, Association of Senior Living India (ASLI), Secretary said at ASLI Ageing Fest.​

​Changes will address the demands of senior care​

Both the policies were amended in 2019. The changes aim to address the evolving dynamics of senior care, which now feature active involvement from private service providers, developers, and operators. ​

​Senior population is growing​

The proportion of citizens aged 60 and above is projected to rise significantly, from 157 million in 2024 (11% of the total population) to 260 million in 2040 (16%) and 346 million by 2050 (21%). ​

​By 2050, one in every five Indians will be a senior​

“That represents about 70 per cent of the world’s population of seniors. It’s a very large and staggering number. As you grow older, there are four Is–instability, immobility, impairment and incontinence,” Rajit Mehta, ASLI Chairman and CEO of Antara Senior Living said.​

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