The rising number of senior citizens and increased life expectancy make healthcare a critical issue for this demographic. The government’s plan to help elders over 70 is a step forward, but is it enough ?
The government’s decision to extend healthcare insurance benefits of Rs 5 lakh to elders above 70 is a step in the right direction. The initiative, driven by the Ayushman Bharat – PM Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), aims to provide significant financial relief to the elderly, especially for expensive secondary and tertiary hospitalizations. However, as India’s elderly population overgrows, there is a strong case for extending this benefit to all elderly people above 60, particularly those from the private sector or with limited economic resources. Universal healthcare coverage for all senior citizens will ensure that India’s elderly can age with dignity, health, and financial security.
India is witnessing a demographic shift, with its elderly population growing unprecedentedly. According to the National Statistical Office, the number of people aged 60 and above in 2023 is estimated to be around 150 million, and by 2031, this figure is expected to rise to 194 million. The proportion of senior citizens in India’s population is expected to grow from 10.1% in 2021 to 14.9% by 2036, indicating a substantial rise in the number of people needing healthcare support. Moreover, the dependency ratio – the number of elderly persons per 100 working-age individuals is on the rise, moving from 15.7 in 2021 to a projected 20.1 by 2031. This growing dependency highlights the increasing strain on families and the social security system to support the elderly.
Under the PMJAY, the government offers Rs 5 lakh per family per year in health insurance coverage for secondary and tertiary hospitalization. While not explicitly designed for those above 70, this scheme includes elderly individuals who meet the Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011 criteria, primarily targeting the economically weaker sections. The scheme covers treatment for various ailments, including critical conditions like cardiovascular diseases and cancer, and provides cashless and paperless treatment in empaneled public and private hospitals.
About 71% of the elderly population depends on others, either family or the government, for financial support. Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases affect 20-30% of the elderly, demanding regular and often expensive medical care. As people age, they are more prone to chronic illnesses and need frequent medical interventions. Covering all citizens above 60 under the Rs 5 lakh insurance plan would ensure better access to healthcare and reduce out-of-pocket expenses for medical treatments. In the absence of comprehensive healthcare coverage, many elderly individuals bear significant healthcare costs, which can push families into poverty. A large proportion of the elderly population, around 70%, still resides in rural areas where healthcare facilities are limited. Providing universal healthcare insurance to all senior citizens, especially those in remote areas, would ensure that they have access to quality medical care.
While the PMJAY and state-specific schemes are a good starting point, they have limitations in terms of eligibility and coverage. These schemes primarily cater to BPL families and retired government employees, leaving out a significant section of the elderly population that doesn’t qualify but still faces financial constraints. A more inclusive and expansive approach is needed to ensure universal healthcare coverage for all senior citizens, especially those above 60. A comprehensive healthcare insurance scheme for all seniors could provide access to outpatient care, diagnostic services, free medicines, and long-term care for chronic conditions. Extending healthcare benefits to all above 60 is not just a matter of equity but a necessity.
The writer is a senior journalist based in Delhi. Views are Personal.
Twitter @NarvijayYadav
