Why in news?
The United Nations Population Fund’s India Ageing Report 2023 highlighted that older women in India live longer than men but spend more time in poor health. This finding has prompted calls for gender‑sensitive health policies.
Background
India’s population is ageing rapidly. By 2050, at least one in five Indians will be 60 years or older. Women have a higher life expectancy than men but face social and economic disadvantages that affect their health.
Key points
- On average, older women live about seven years longer than men but spend roughly a quarter of their lives in ill‑health. Many suffer from osteoporosis, arthritis, cardiovascular diseases and cancers.
- More than half of elderly women have no personal income, and fewer than 20 per cent can afford medical care on their own. Financial dependence often forces them to delay or forego treatment.
- A large share are widows or live alone. Social isolation and lack of a support network worsen mental and physical health outcomes.
- Policies like the National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly, Ayushman Bharat, Atal Pension Yojana, Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana and state initiatives such as Kerala’s Vayomithram aim to provide healthcare, assistive devices and pensions. However, gaps remain in outreach, awareness and digital literacy.
Implications
- Gender‑sensitive health screening and geriatric facilities are needed to address specific diseases affecting older women.
- Financial and social security programmes must target women without income or family support, ensuring they can access healthcare services.
- Digital and health literacy campaigns should include older women to bridge the technology divide.