In a groundbreaking move, the Indian state of Kerala has launched a dedicated department for elderly welfare, aiming to ensure no senior citizen grows old alone.
Kerala’s 70-year-old residents, like TO Dominic, often rely on neighbors for help, as their children have moved away for better job opportunities, leaving them to manage on their own. Dominic starts his day with a comforting phone call to one of his sons, but when he needs help at home, it’s not his sons who can provide it.
Elderly Welfare in Kerala
The new department’s strategy is centered on “ageing in place,” helping older people remain in their homes and communities rather than moving into institutions. The plans include expanding community and home-based care, introducing “social prescribing,” and connecting older people with meaningful social activities.
Kerala has the highest share of elderly residents among India’s major states, with nearly one in four people projected to be over 60 by 2036. The state’s ageing population reflects both social progress and migration, with better healthcare, longer life expectancy, and falling birth rates contributing to the issue.
Addressing the Challenges
The Kerala government is working to address the challenges of an ageing population, including loneliness and social isolation. The department is exploring volunteer networks and community programs to tackle isolation among the elderly, recognizing that infrastructure and services alone will not solve all the challenges of ageing.
The state’s efforts to support its elderly population have significant implications for the rest of the country, as India’s population is rapidly ageing. As the world’s population ages, Kerala’s innovative approach to elderly welfare could serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges.
