Geriatric care is no longer optional; it's a national imperative for India's ageing population: Experts

As India braces for a demographic shift, experts emphasize that geriatric care is becoming a national imperative. With projections indicating that the senior citizen population will swell to approximately 230 million by 2036, comprising about 15 percent of the total populace, the need for robust elder care systems is pressing. This surge underscores the urgency for comprehensive strategies to address the unique health and social needs of the aging population. Healthcare professionals and policymakers are advocating for a multifaceted approach to geriatric care, which includes improving healthcare infrastructure, training specialized medical personnel, and fostering community support systems. The current healthcare framework is insufficiently equipped to handle the anticipated demand, necessitating immediate investments in elder-friendly facilities and services. Experts argue that integrating geriatric care into the primary healthcare system is crucial to ensure accessibility and affordability for all senior citizens. Beyond healthcare, there is a call for societal shifts to bolster the quality of life for seniors. This includes enhancing public transportation, creating age-friendly urban spaces, and implementing policies that support financial security and independence for the elderly. As India prepares to accommodate its growing senior demographic, a collective effort from government, healthcare providers, and society at large is essential to transform geriatric care from an option to a priority.

— Authored by Next24 Live