Gender Differentials in Economic Security & Functional Health Status Among Elderly in India

Abstract

Improving life expectancy, both at birth and in later ages, and dwindling fertility rates have contributed to rapid aging of the Indian population. People aged 60 and above will comprise 20% of the Indian population by 2060 (World Health Organization, 2015). The ageing of population is coupled with its feminisation- rise in the proportion of women among the elderly. Due to higher life expectancy of women, women marrying older men or remarriage among widowed men, absolute number of elderly women is higher than older men (Rajan, 2001; United Nations, 2013; UNDESA, 2011; Balagopal, 2009). Tied to these demographic changes is a process of rapid urbanization and changing living arrangements wherein the institution of joint families is withering away. The role of women of the household, hitherto seen as the primary caregivers is also changing. In the scenario of weakening traditional family support systems, provision of economic and social security for healthy ageing is critical.