Forgotten Treasures: The Shocking Truth About Elder Care in India Nobody Talks About!

 

 

 https://www.yodda.care/

Every family carries its own treasures. Some are pieces of gold or land. But often, the real treasures are our elders — grandmothers and grandfathers, who fill our homes with stories, love, and wisdom. Sadly, in India today, many of these treasures are left behind, neglected, or forgotten. Let’s talk about why elder care matters, what’s going wrong, and what can be done to help millions of senior citizens who deserve respect, safety, and happiness.

 

The Growing Challenge.

 

India is home to more than 153 million elderly people (aged 60 and above) as of 2023, and that number is expected to double to 347 million by 2050. That means one out of every five Indians will be an elder in the next three decades — a massive group needing care, love, and support. But are we ready?

 

The Reality Behind Closed Doors.

 

Many elderly people in India live quietly. But behind those closed doors are stories of pain, loneliness, and struggle:

• Economic Insecurity: About 78% of elderly people have no pension cover, and many live with very limited money. Some are even forced to depend on their children or community for daily expenses.

• Health Issues: Chronic diseases like diabetes, arthritis, and heart problems are very common among seniors. Yet, access to proper care is rare, especially in villages or small towns.

• Loneliness: As nuclear families become the norm, elders often feel isolated, their children busy with jobs or living far away.

• Safety Concerns: Cases of abuse, neglect, or financial fraud against seniors are increasing, sometimes even inside their own homes.

   

Facts and Figures: The Big Picture.

 

Let’s break down some key statistics:

Statistic	Value
India’s senior citizens (2023)	153 million
Expected population by 2050	347 million
Share of elderly depending on family	70%
Elderly without pension cover	78%
Seniors living below poverty line	About 99%

 

Why Does Elder Care Matter?

 

Imagine a classroom without a teacher, a cricket team without a coach, or a family without a grandparent. Elders are the keepers of tradition and knowledge. Ignoring their well-being creates a future without guidance or love.

 

The Hidden Stories.

 

Take Ramu’s story. He was a school principal in a small town. After retirement, his children moved to big cities. Most days, he sits alone. His pension is barely enough for medicines. No visitors, no outings, and sometimes, not enough food.

Ramu’s story isn’t rare. Millions of elders in India have similar experiences.

 

What Is Missing in Our Elder Care System?

 

India’s elder care faces these chronic challenges:

• Shortage of Trained Caregivers: Many care facilities lack staff properly trained to understand seniors’ needs.

• Profit Over Care: Some care homes put making money above giving good care, often leading to neglect or unhappiness.

• Neglect and Emotional Suffering: Elders may not get the time or attention they need, and many suffer in silence.

• Outdated Infrastructure: Quality care is mostly available in big cities, while most rural areas have very few facilities.

• Limited Government Limitations: Government schemes exist, but they often do not reach those who need them most due to lack of awareness or poor implementation.

   

How Indian Families Are Changing.

 

In olden days, the “joint family system” meant grandparents, parents, and kids lived together. It was easier to take care of the elders. Now, many families have become “nuclear,” meaning just parents and kids, often with the grandparents living alone.

Urbanization, migration for jobs, and changing lifestyles have changed the way we care for elders, sometimes leaving them without daily support or companionship.

 

The Role of Government.

 

The Indian government has several policies for seniors, like the National Policy on Older Persons (NPOP) and schemes for senior citizens’ homes, food security, and healthcare. But the truth is, only 28% of seniors know about any concessions for them and just 18% are covered by health insurance. So, even though the policies sound good, many elders are still left out.

 

Modern vs Traditional Elder Care.

 

Traditionally, elder care meant family support, respect, and daily company. Now, modern elder care includes:

• Old Age Homes: Residential facilities for elders.

• Assisted Living: Where help is available for daily tasks.

• In-Home Care: Trained professionals visiting homes for help.

• Day Centres: Spots for elders to meet, socialize, or get medical help.

Modern elder care is growing, but it can be expensive — costs are often not covered by health insurance policies, putting pressure on families.

 

What Can Be Done? Simple Steps Forward.

 

Solving elder care is not easy, but some steps can help:

• Spread Awareness: Let families and elders know what schemes, services, and help are available.

• Improve Home and Community Care: More support for elders to stay healthy and happy at home, including regular checkups and emotional support.

• Empower Caregivers: Focus on caregiver training and pay, so they deliver better care.

• Fight Isolation: Take elders out for walks, festivals, family gatherings, or online calls — anything to make them feel included.

• Boost Financial Planning: Families must plan for old age, with insurance, savings, and pension programs.

• Support From Society: Local clubs, religious groups, and communities can help organize social events, home visits, or even reading sessions.

   

Inspiring Stories: Not All Hope Is Lost.

 

Some communities are stepping up. In Mumbai, local groups offer special classes, yoga sessions, and health camps for elders. In Bangalore, some tech companies run mentorship programs where elders teach young people soft skills or traditional crafts.

These examples show the power of collective action.

 

Let’s Protect Our Treasures.

 

If every reader spends ten extra minutes this week with a senior — chatting, walking, sharing a meal — it may brighten someone’s life. Bringing elders back to the center of families and society can make India stronger, wiser, and more caring.

 

FAQs on Elder Care in India.

 

Q1: How many elderly people are there in India?
A1: As of 2023, there are about 153 million people aged 60 and above in India, with projections of 347 million by 2050.

Q2: What are the main problems facing senior citizens?
A2: Economic insecurity, loneliness, chronic diseases, poor access to proper healthcare, and sometimes neglect or abuse.

Q3: Are there government schemes for elders?
A3: Yes, the government runs several schemes like National Policy on Older Persons, senior citizen homes, and the National Programme for the Health Care of the Elderly, but many elders don’t know about them.

Q4: What types of care facilities exist?
A4: Old age homes, assisted living centers, in-home professional care, and day care centers for seniors.

Q5: How can families support elders?
A5: By spending time, understanding their needs, planning finances, encouraging social activity, and making use of available schemes and assistance.