Challenges

Elderly people need to work simply to survive until the day they die. 75% of the elderly population in India are from a marginalized class of society. Most end up in absolute destitution in the last years of their lives when they have neither the capacity nor ability to work. They lack any kind of safety net by way of family or community support system.  The status of “destitute elder” not only undermines their dignity and self-respect, but also exposes them to increased risk of exploitation, abuse and further impoverishment. In simple terms, the greatest challenge ahead is formulating appropriate and customized responses to “caring for the needs of the elderly.”