As Delhi gears up for the assembly elections, the elderly of the capital are urging the political parties to address their needs. A survey conducted by the Agewell Foundation has highlighted the issues faced by senior citizens and how they want political representatives to address issues of their health, financial security, and legal needs.
With promises like the Sanjeevani Yojana and the Centre’s Ayushman Bharat Yojana (PMJAY), senior citizens want tangible benefits for the city’s most active vote base.
Older people in Delhi with a significant voter base are demanding reforms to ease their lives in the bustling Capital. "Politicians and political parties must take care of the needs and rights of older people because they constitute a larger number of actual voters during every election,” says Himanshu Rath, Founder Chairman of Agewell Foundation.
Healthcare remains a primary concern for senior citizens with demands for exclusive medical facilities in hospitals like separate OPDs in all hospitals, free medicines and pathological tests for senior citizens, and dedicated healthcare teams for regular checkups at home.
Financial insecurity remains a primary concern for the elderly, and the high cost of living in Delhi and costly medical facilities make them dependent on their kids, much to their discomfort. Therefore, exclusive banking services, TDS-free interest, insurance, saving schemes for seniors as well as dedicated legal counselling and advisory services for needy elderly people become crucial to ensure their independence post-retirement. Demand for concessions in metro and bus fares and separate couches for seniors in metros are also some of the needs highlighted in the findings of the survey.
Social isolation is another significant challenge faced by the senior citizens of Delhi. According to the survey, regular home visits to the elderly, especially those living alone, by police or NGO volunteers can help resolve the issue.
Voting patterns of the elderly in the capital indicate that they are comparatively more sensitive and aware of politics and participate in elections more actively.
“The elderly in Delhi are not only aware of their rights but also expect better implementation of welfare programmes, and more comprehensive, accessible services. To improve their quality of life, the government and society must play a more active role in ensuring their well-being,” said Rath.
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As per the survey, over 80% of Delhi’s elderly population participates in the electoral process. They are aware of the facilities and schemes that are launched for the benefit of senior citizens. However, inefficiencies, political rivalry, bureaucratic hurdles, and insensitivity make proper implementation a challenge. Drawing attention to the need to improve healthcare, social security, and financial support, senior citizens are driving home the point to politicians that it is not just a moral responsibility but also a strategic imperative for any party hoping to secure their vote.
