Senior citizens constitute a precious reservoir of human resource- they are gifted with knowledge of various sorts, varied experiences and deep insights. They might have formally retired, yet an overwhelming majority of them are physically fit and mentally alert. That’s why they are playing an important role in the socio-economic development of the nation. But, the elderly who are not physically and mentally alert and are unaware of their rights may face abuse by their family and society.
Abuse has increased during the lockdown, says 71% of elderly. A survey with a focus on the impact of Covid-19 pandemic found that 71% of elderly respondents are of the opinion that cases of abuse against them increased during the Lockdown period and after. A majority 56.1% of the respondents said they were suffering abuse in their families or by society. The forms of abuse include a wide range of disrespect and verbal abuse.
The survey was steered by volunteers of civil society organisation Agewell Foundation between June 1 to June 12 and is based on responses of 5,000 elderly people in different parts of the country, including metro cities – Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.
According to The National Center on Elder Abuse distinguishes between seven different types of elder abuse includes.
- Physical Abuse,
- Sexual Abuse,
- Emotional Abuse,
- Financial/Material exploitation,
- Neglect,
- Abandonment
- Self-Neglect.
Government of India to provide more effective provision for Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007
Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 is a legislation, initiated by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Government Schemes Launched for the Benefit of Senior Citizens
- Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Scheme. …
- Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme(IGNOAPS) …
- National Programme for the Health Care of Elderly (NPHCE) …
- Varishta Mediclaim Policy. …
- Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana. …
- Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana.
There are lots of schemes and policies for the elderly but most of the elderly are unaware of their rights because of which they face lots of problems.
About the Author
Rashmi Chauhan is the Project Officer of Mann ka Tilak, the Wishes and Blessings old age home. She loves cooking and talking to people, whether old or young.