An Integrated Programme for Older Persons

1. INTRODUCTION

There has been a steady rise in the population of older persons in India. The number of elder persons has increased from 19.8 million in 1951 to 76 million in 2001 and the projections indicate that the number of 60+ in India will increase to 100 million in 2013 and to 198 million in 2030. The life expectancy, which was around 29 years in 1947, has increased manifold and now stands close to 63 years.

The traditional norms and values of the Indian society laid stress on showing respect and providing care for the aged. However, in recent times, society is witnessing a gradual but definite withering of the joint family system, as a result of which a large number of parents are being neglected by their families exposing to lack of emotional, physical and financial support. These older persons are facing a lot of problems in the absence of adequate social security. This clearly reveals that ageing has become a major social challenge and there is a need to provide for the economic and health needs of the elderly and to create a social milieu, which is conducive and sensitive to emotional needs of the elderly.

2. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The main objective of the Scheme is to improve the quality of life of the Older Persons by providing basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care and entertainment opportunities and by encouraging productive and active ageing through providing support for capacity building of Government / Non-Governmental Organizations / Panchayati Raj Institutions / local bodies and the Community at large.

3. APPROACH

Assistance under the scheme will be given to the Panchayati Raj Institutions / local bodies and eligible Non-Governmental Voluntary Organizations for the following purposes:-

(i) Programmes catering to the basic needs of Older Persons particularly food, shelter and health care to the destitute elderly;

(ii) Programmes to build and strengthen intergenerational relationships particularly between children / youth and Older Persons;

(iii) Programmes for encouraging Active and Productive Ageing;

(iv) Programmes for proving Institutional as well as Non Institutional Care / Services to Older Persons;

(v) Research, Advocacy and Awareness building programmes in the field of Ageing; and

(vi) Any other programmes in the best interests of Older Persons.