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2mo ago

New LASI Report Finds 70% of India’s Seniors Financially Dependent, Spotlights Health, Isolation Concerns

Experts urge ministerial coordination, stronger welfare law enforcement, expansion of age-friendly infrastructure in response to a LASI-based report highlighting financial dependency, health risks, social isolation among India’s elderly.

Since time immemorial, the care of parents has been revered as one of the highest duties. Across religious texts, the duty to care for one’s parents is emphasised as a virtue, equating it with divine service. This concept is now under threat. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
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Overview

  • The Sankala Foundation–NITI Aayog study using LASI data shows that nearly 70% of Indians aged 60 and above rely on family or work post-retirement for survival.
  • Food insecurity affects a significant share of seniors, with 6.4% reducing meal sizes, 5.6% going hungry without eating and 4.2% skipping meals for a full day at least once in the past year.
  • Chronic conditions are widespread among the elderly, including cardiovascular disease in 35.6%, hypertension in 32%, diabetes in 13.2% and bone and joint issues in 19%.
  • Mental health strains are rising, as 30% of seniors report depressive symptoms and 8% show probable major depression, with a 10% gap indicating underdiagnosis.
  • Recommendations call for inter-ministerial coordination, investment in home-based care, public campaigns against ageism and the expansion of age-friendly infrastructure to bolster senior welfare.