India Pushes for Active Aging Amid Rising Challenges

At a recent debate conference, India voiced its commitment to promoting active ageing, recognising the urgent and growing need to build age-friendly societies, both within its borders and across ASEAN. With a rapidly ageing population and widespread gaps in elderly care, particularly in rural regions—India stands by the fact that creating age-friendly societies is no longer optional but essential for the betterment of the country. Recognising this urgent need, the country supports the promotion of active ageing both domestically and across the ASEAN region. 

With many challenges India faces, the most pressing issue is the lack of awareness and support, particularly in rural regions. Many older individuals remain unaware of available initiatives due to poor access to modern digital technologies and information or are not familiar, leading to low participation rates. This knowledge gap has created a significant disconnect between policies and real-world impact, mainly for communities outside urban parts. 

Healthcare affordability is another significant concern. With a large percentage of the population living in poverty and healthcare costs on the rise, many elderly citizens, especially those who are retired — struggle to access appropriate services. India noted the importance of tailoring healthcare to meet the specific and evolving needs of older adults, who face higher risks of disability and chronic illness. A large amount of individuals also suffer from mobility limitations, leading them to further isolate themselves from healthcare infrastructures that are located far away. 

To address these issues of active ageing, the Minister of India’s approach emphasises improving the social climate for the elderly. India has devised several practical solutions directed at enhancing the social and healthcare environment for the elderly. The government supports the use of traditional forms of media such as radio broadcasts or newspapers. The government insists on doing this so as to raise awareness about healthy lifestyle practices that are crucial for a better quality of life for all citizens. It will also serve to educate senior citizens on maintaining active lifestyles and encouraging greater participation in activities applicable for them. This is India’s prime solution in promoting an active lifestyle for all.

As for healthcare in rural areas especially, the expansion of elderly care and accessible health and wellness facilities will accommodate to the elderly who are unable to travel long distances. Regarding infrastructure, India intends to develop exercise corners in various communities. These will be primarily self-funded, though the government is seeking additional support from agencies and international partners. Since India has strong bilateral relationships with countries such as Japan and the United States, it is anticipated that Japan will extend financial support, while the U.S. may also emerge as a key contributor. However, that is yet to be confirmed. 

Furthermore, the social well-being of the elderly remains fragile. In rural communities, there are limited opportunities for social interaction and a lack of community support contribute to widespread loneliness. This results in some elderly citizens to face neglect, loneliness and abuse — issues India acknowledges must be urgently addressed. With a poor mental state of mind, older individuals will further drift from what India wishes to achieve. Mental and physical health are closely intertwined, and a negative mental state can manifest in various physical symptoms, increasing the risk of developing chronic physical conditions. Hence, India plans to tend to the elderly individuals who struggle with mental health. 

India concluded its presentation by calling for regional and international cooperation to improve its ageing support system. ASEAN partners, the EU, Japan, the US and Australia were all recognised as potential allies in the developing solutions that will be adapted across borders. With the proper support, India believes it can assist every older adult in the country, not just the ones who can afford it, but along with the underprivileged ones. All of these are in hopes for elderly to live with health, dignity and purpose. 

Written by Xandra Kuek Xhin Rong, Cuencaho Kristel Aleana Noble, and Saha Pryonty Rani.