Make our healthcare closer for elders

Indians are getting affluent. But accessing reliable healthcare continues to be a challenge, more so for above-60s. India's silver generation, 10.5% of the population, must travel an average of 15 km for outpatient services, and nearly 44 km for in-patient care. Longer travel times to a healthcare facility make accessing essential medical care difficult.

Going by the new Lancet study, improving physical access for older adults is critical. This group is expected to account for 13.2% in 2031, rising to 15% by 2036. By 2047, India's senior citizens will outstrip the 0-14 cohort accounting for nearly 21% of the population. Making improved access to geriatric care is a key marker of a country's developed status. So far, GoI has focused on financial access through health insurance, such as Ayushman Bharat for above-70s. Without easier physical access to medical services, there won't be a marked improvement in health outcomes and well-being of older Indians. Given longer life spans, missing access to healthcare has productivity and economic impacts. There are wide variations among states, and travel distances are higher in rural areas than urban, with low-income seniors and women placed at a bigger disadvantage.

Ensuring primary and secondary healthcare within a 10-km radius is important, with a focus on addressing transportation barriers, particularly for home-bound seniors. Community-based transport service, home-based primary care and a mix of mobile medical van, digital healthcare and inclusive social support must be built into design on healthcare centres. A strong emphasis on wellness, addressing issues such as pollution, heat stress, community engagement and mental health will improve outcomes for not just seniors but everyone.