Thiruvananthapuram, February 11 The Kerala Cabinet on Wednesday approved a new policy for the elderly—likely the first of its kind in any Indian state—setting out an inclusive and equality-driven framework to protect the dignity and well-being of older citizens. The policy is particularly significant given that the elderly population in the state is steadily increasing and currently accounts for 16.5% of the total population—the highest proportion in the country and the fastest-growing. This figure is expected to reach 23% of the population by 2036. State Minister for Social Welfare and Higher Education, R Bindu, said the policy would promote active and healthy aging and ensure the social and mental well-being of the elderly in the state. "The policy will strengthen integrated care facilities with the support of local self-governments, health workers, and non-governmental organizations," Bindu said at a press conference here. The policy envisions ensuring solidarity between generations, as well as equality, inclusiveness, and justice, to enable a better quality of life for the elderly. Key takeaways from the policy include a lifelong learning program and a lifelong health monitoring and management system. It seeks to view aging not as a stage of weakness, but as a phase of continued growth, contribution, and self-realization, and to ensure the sustained contribution of the elderly to society. The policy also ensures insurance coverage for elderly workers in the unorganized sector, the establishment of social care centers, and the provision of training for caregivers of the elderly, especially those caring for aged persons with special conditions. The new policy also mandates elderly-friendly facilities in all buildings, including homes and public spaces. It further aims to strengthen existing laws for the protection of the elderly in order to prevent atrocities against them. The policy also stresses the need to improve digital literacy among the elderly and to train them in new technological advancements to make their lives easier. It additionally proposes technology training sessions and internship programs for the elderly. The expertise of the elderly in their respective fields will be utilised to ensure their social and financial security, Bindu said. "The policy also promises to bring elderly care into the mainstream of administration and policy-making. It further aims to locally incorporate global role model programmes. We will also initiate studies in geriatrics and provide training in caregiving for age-related special conditions," the Minister added. All essential services for the elderly will be provided at their doorsteps, and a social network to provide care and assistance to elderly persons living alone will be expanded across the state. Kerala already has a widespread, well-trained and extensive pain and palliative care network, and the services of this network will also be integrated to enhance elderly care. "The policy will further ensure long-term, affordable treatment plans or care programmes for the elderly in the state. Additional projects to promote their inclusion in society and to ensure their health and financial security will also be introduced," Bindu added.
