We all have been hearing about the demographic dividend that India has. But what rarely comes out is that the population of senior citizens is also growing at a brisk pace - more than 36 per cent according to census data between 2001 and 2011. The ageing population tragically is being accompanied with its unfortunate elements of loneliness, abuse, neglect and a rise in number of cases of geriatrics. But this was not the case. The rise of nuclear families has cut the support system which used to sustain and form a support group for the elderly is slowly being eroded and the rising cost of healthcare and frailties are forcing them to take succor at old-age homes. Less than 30 per cent of senior citizens have a pension cover and the increase lifespan is making it even more difficult for them to be financially independent. Is going back to the ways of joint families the way out? Or should the government ensure a slew of social security measures for seniors?
