Effects of Globalization on the Aged Population in India
Introduction
Globalization has transformed economic and social structures, significantly impacting the aged population (60+ years) in India, which is expected to rise to 20% by 2050 (UN Population Report). While it has led to better healthcare and economic opportunities, it has also contributed to social alienation and economic insecurities.
Positive Effects of Globalization on the Aged
- Improved Healthcare Access
- Expansion of private healthcare and medical tourism has enhanced treatment options.
- Example: Ayushman Bharat Scheme provides financial aid to the elderly for healthcare.
- Economic Opportunities & Financial Inclusion
- Rise in pension schemes, reverse mortgage policies, and digital banking benefits senior citizens.
- Example: Atal Pension Yojana, Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS).
- Technological Inclusion & Connectivity
- Increased digital literacy allows better social connectivity and access to telemedicine.
- Example: Elderline Helpline (14567) supports elderly care.
- Rise of Senior Living & Care Industry
- Global exposure has led to better retirement homes and old-age facilities.
- Example: Assisted living projects in cities like Bengaluru and Pune cater to aged populations.
Negative Effects of Globalization on the Aged
- Family Disintegration & Social Isolation
- Nuclear families and youth migration for jobs have led to loneliness among the elderly.
- Example: Rise of old-age homes, especially in Kerala and Tamil Nadu due to Gulf migration.
- Economic Insecurity
- Informal sector workers, without pensions, face financial distress post-retirement.
- Example: 90% of elderly in India work in the informal sector, lacking social security benefits.
- Elderly Abuse & Neglect
- Cases of financial, emotional, and physical abuse of the elderly are rising.
- Example: HelpAge India (2022) report states 52% of elders face neglect or abuse.
- Health Burden & Changing Lifestyle Diseases
- Globalized diets and sedentary lifestyles have increased non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
- Example: Heart diseases, diabetes, and mental illnesses among elderly are rising.
Way Forward
- Strengthening social security: Expand pension schemes like PM Vaya Vandana Yojana.
- Elder-friendly policies: Better implementation of Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act (2007).
- Community-based support: Promote intergenerational bonding through senior citizen clubs.
- Better healthcare access: More geriatric healthcare centers under Ayushman Bharat.
Conclusion
Globalization has enhanced the lives of the aged through healthcare, financial inclusion, and connectivity but has also intensified social isolation and economic distress. A balanced approach, integrating traditional family-based support with modern welfare policies, is necessary to ensure the well-being of India’s elderly population.
