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Aug. 2013 Updated October 2019 Sense of Security & Human Rights of Older Persons An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study The study addresses key issues concerning the elderly specifically focusing on denial of human rights and elder abuse conducted by the Agewell Foundation Research and Advocacy Centre in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 2 CONTENTS ABSTRACT ................................................................................................................................................ 6 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................ 7 HUMAN RIGHTS OF OLDER PERSONS – INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE ..................................................... 8 PROVISIONS FOR THE ELDERLY WITHIN INDIA ............................................................................................ 9 SENSE OF SECURITY IN OLD AGE ................................................................................................................. 10 SCOPE OF STUDY ......................................................................................................................................... 10 OBJECTIVES AND RESEARCH METHODOLOGY .......................................................................................... 12 KEY OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................................................... 12 METHODOLOGY AND SAMPLE DESIGN ....................................................................................................... 12 SAMPLING ................................................................................................................................................... 13 SUMMARY FINDINGS ............................................................................................................................... 15 REPRESENTATIVE STATEMENTS FROM OLDER PERSONS ............................................................................ 35 OBSERVATIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 37 RESPONDENT PROFILING
 ............................................................................................................................ 37 FINANCIAL STATUS OF OLDER PERSONS ..................................................................................................... 37 SOCIAL STATUS OF OLDER PERSONS ........................................................................................................... 38 HEALTHCARE STATUS OF OLDER PERSONS ................................................................................................. 38 OLD AGE ENGAGEMENTS ............................................................................................................................ 39 SUPPORT IN OLD AGE .................................................................................................................................. 39 NEEDS OF OLDER PERSONS ......................................................................................................................... 39 HUMAN RIGHTS OF OLDER PERSONS AND LEGAL PROVISIONS .................................................................. 40 PARTICIPATION OF OLDER PERSONS ........................................................................................................... 41 CONCLUSION............................................................................................................................................ 43 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PROTECTIONF OF HUMAN RIGHTS OF ELDERLY…………………………………………….43 ANNEXURE 1 ............................................................................................................................................ 46 CORE HUMAN RIGHTS TREATIES ................................................................................................................. 46 ANNEXURE 2 ............................................................................................................................................ 47 UNITED NATIONS PRINCIPLES FOR OLDER PERSONS
 .................................................................................. 47 ANNEXURE 3 ............................................................................................................................................ 48 DETAILED LIST OF GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES FOR THE ELDERLY IN INDIA ................................................ 48 BIBLIOGRAPHY ......................................................................................................................................... 52 REVISED FACTS & FIGURES - MAY 2019 ................................................................................................... 53 ANNEXURE 4 Questionnaires ................................................................................................................. 55 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 3 TABLE OF FIGURES Figure 1: Percentage of Respondents Based on Age ..................................................................................... 16 Figure 2: Number of Respondents Based on Gender .................................................................................... 17 Figure 3: Location Distribution of Respondents ............................................................................................ 17 Figure 4: Distribution of Respondents Based on Monthly Income ................................................................ 18 Figure 5: Family Structure of Respondents ................................................................................................... 19 Figure 6: Age Wise Family Support Requirement in Old Age ........................................................................ 20 Figure 7: Health Condition of the Elderly ...................................................................................................... 21 Figure 8: Major Reasons for Poor Health Condition in Old Age .................................................................... 22 Figure 9: Status of Health Care Facilities
 ....................................................................................................... 23 Figure 10: Number of Respondents Productively Engaged in Old Age .......................................................... 24 Figure 11: Percentage of Respondents Wanting To Be Productively Engaged in Old Age ............................ 25 Figure 12: Number of Respondents Engaged in Activities Relevant to Experience ....................................... 25 Figure 13: Support from the Government ..................................................................................................... 26 Figure 14: Duration of Support from Government ........................................................................................ 27 Figure 15: Most Urgent Requirements in Old Age ......................................................................................... 28 Figure 16: Negligence of Elderly .................................................................................................................... 29 Figure 17: Types of Issues Faced by the Elderly ............................................................................................. 20 Figure 18: Factors Responsible for Violation of Human Rights for Elderly .................................................... 30 Figure 19: Awareness of Legal Provisions ...................................................................................................... 30 Figure 20: Incidence of Elder Abuse .............................................................................................................. 31 Figure 21: Incidents of Abuse by Location ..................................................................................................... 31 Figure 22: Perpetrators of Abuse .................................................................................................................. 32 Figure 23: Incidents Reported to Authorities
 ................................................................................................ 32 Figure 24: Elderly Participation in Socio-Economic Activities ........................................................................ 33 Figure 25: Elderly Participation at Various Levels .......................................................................................... 34 Figure 26: Elderly living in inhuman conditions ............................................................................................ 53 Figure 27: Basic needs & rights of older persons ...................................................................................... 54 Table 1: Geographic Areas covered during survey ...................................................................................... 13 Table 2: Most urgent requirements of in old age ......................................................................................... 15 Table 3: Most common reasons for poor health of older persons ................................................................. 22 Chapter 1 Introduction An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 5 ABSTRACT Jug Jug Jiyo!
Live for eons to come!

Blessings like these are common place in India.

What this clearly establishes is the high regard and respect we in India as a social accord to the elderly.

It shows how we rever old age and celebrate it.

Yet when we look closer into the narrow alleys meandering through the length and breadth of our beautiful country and peep into the four walls of our homes, what do we image – a see?

A complex and contrasting contradiction of sorts.


Because not only are the elderly in India highly marginalized, they are also forms of abuse.

And this subject to various contradiction poses a lot many serious questions for us to ponder over.

Are we as a nation two faced?

Why do we bless our children to live for as long as possible when we cannot practice what we preach?
If we extrapolate this thought process to understand the situation in a concentrated geography like Delhi NCR, the problems become even more protracted.

In a fast paced and competitive environment of our national capital region, are we really taking time out for our elders?

The aim of this study was to understand the human rights of the elderly, pinpoint the core issues revolving around their sense of (in)security, and provide suggestions albeit with caveats to ensure a better future for our elders.
Agewell Foundation has been working doggedly for the cause of the elderly for almost 15 years.

Apart from providing a slew of services to the elderly in terms of helplines, volunteer support, employment exchange and other tailor made solutions; Agewell’s mainstay has been in the field of research and advocacy.
Agewell Special Consultative Status at the United Nations and have been part of the Social Sector Working Group of the Planning Commission of India consecutively for the currently enjoys last three five year plans.

In our endeavor to reach out to th elderly, we have focused a large part of our energies on research.

Agewell Foundation’s Research and Advocacy Centre has been working relentlessly to understand the finer nuances of the complexities surrounding old age today.
With a number of reports and a multitude of seminars and symposiums to its Foundation credit, Agewell to the National Human Rights collaborate with Commission of India for undertaking this study.

is privileged trained The study covered a respondent base of 1500 persons spread across Delhi NCR.

The respondents were provided with a simple questionnaire and volunteers of Agewell attended by Foundation.
Findings of the survey showed that there is a clear disconnect between the younger generation and our elders and significantly, a majority of our elders do not feel the sense of security living in Delhi NCR.

Many reported incidents of abuse and direct violations of basic human rights.

Importantly, most of the respondents were unaware of existing legal provisions and government schemes in place for the elderly.

Agewell suggests a number of interventions to improve the current state of affairs.
Some of these include inculcating a sense of responsibility and sensitization within school children itself by way of in the school lessons on old age incorporating curriculum.

Greater publicity of existing schemes and interventions as well as a participatory approach will auger well for us in times to come.

It is the Foundation’s belief that likeminded stakeholders can come together to make a proactive effort to ensure a much better, more secure and happy future for our elders.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 6 INTRODUCTION (60+) of is no exception.

the elderly population Population aging is a worldwide phenomenon, and India Indian population has approximately tripled during the last 50 years, but the number of elderly Indians (60+) has increased more than four folds.

The 2011 census has shown India that accounted for 98.3 million, which was projected to cross the 100 million mark during the same year.
It took more than 100 years for the aged population to double in most of the countries in the world, but in India it has doubled in just 20 years.

The life expectancy has also gone up to over 70 years today.

Better medical facilities, care and liberal family planning policies made the elderly the fastest growing section of the society in India.

By 2025, the world will have more elderly than young people and cross two billion mark by 2050.
In India also, the population of elder persons’ population mark will cross 18% by 2025. rapid urbanization, fast changing socio-economic scenario, With industrialization, higher aspirations among the youth and the increasing participation of women in the workforce, roots of traditional joint family system has been eroding very fast.

In urban areas of the country traditional joint family system has become thing of past.
In such changing situations, majority of older people, who have passed most part of their life with their joint/extended families are on the verge of isolation or marginalization in old age.

At this age, when they need family support most, they have to live on their own.

Even basic needs & rights of them are not addressed.

Social many of isolation and even marginalization, negligence in old age lead violation of Human Rights of Older people.
loneliness, Ironically, in India older generations are not aware of their human rights due to high prevalence of illiteracy and lack of awareness.

On the other hand, due to comparatively high physical as well as psychological vulnerability their cries for help remain within four-walls, that’s why only a few cases of violation of human rights of elderly come out.

Ever-increasing numbers of distress calls from older people clearly indicate disturbing condition of Human Rights of Older people in India.
Human Rights of Older People  Right to life shall be protected by law.

 Right not to be subjected to inhuman treatment “No-one shall be subjected to torture or inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment”.

to  Right to liberty “Everyone has the right to liberty and personal security.
 Right to a fair hearing “In the determination of his civil rights and obligations... everyone is entitled to a fair and public hearing within a reasonable time by an independent and impartial tribunal established by law”.

An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 7 HUMAN RIGHTS OF OLDER PERSONS – INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE Human Rights are rights inherent to all human beings, whatever our nationality, place of residence, sex, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, language, or any other status.
We are all equally entitled to our human rights without discrimination.

These rights are all interrelated, interdependent and indivisible.

Universal human rights are often expressed and guaranteed by law.

International human rights law lays down obligations of Governments to act in certain ways or to refrain from certain acts, in order to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals or groups.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights mentions the particular vulnerability of older persons in article 25, which stipulates that “everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well- being of himself and of his family, including ... medical care and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances 1 beyond his control”.
There are a large number of international human rights that apply directly to the elderly.

Refer Annexure 1 for a list of human rights treaties monitored by the United Nations.

Similarly, the United Nations Principles for Older Persons postulates certain basic tenets of human rights with regard to the elderly.
These principles are based on the pillars of: 1 Magdalena Carmona Sepúlveda,“Report of the independent expert on the question of human rights and extreme poverty,” United Nations, Human Rights Council (2010): 4-6 1.

Independence 2.

Participation 3.

Care 4.

Self-fulfillment 5.

Dignity Refer Annexure 2 for the detailed list of principles.

Certain rights are considered absolute rights.

This essentially implies that they cannot be withheld or limited under any circumstances.
Non absolute rights on the other hand may be restricted or dependent on certain criteria or conditions.

Following are some of the significant human rights in the context of older persons that will help us in formulating a framework within which sense of security of older persons can be understood.

These rights may or may not be absolute in nature yet each of them is attached to an important factor governing life.

1.

Right to Life 2.

Right not to be treated in an inhuman or degrading way 3.
Right to liberty 4.

Right to respect for private and family life, home and correspondence 5.

Right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion 6.

Right not to be discriminated against 7.

Right to peaceful enjoyment of possessions 8.

Right to education 9.

Right to an adequate standard of living An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 8 10.

Right to highest attainable standard of health 11.


Right to work and other employment rights long development, Internationally, the issues regarding human rights of older persons were further articulated in 1999 with the Conceptual Framework based on Plans and Principles with focus on situation of older persons, relationship life individual between generations and interrelationship of population, ageing and development.
Concerted efforts finally culminated in 2002 Madrid Plan of Action to ensure rights of older persons, protect them from neglect, violence and abuse and to recognize their role in contribution to society.

An international view alone would not suffice and hence it is important to understand the various policies and legislation in place for the elderly within India.
financial assistance Similarly, the scheme of Integrated Programme for Older Persons (IPOP) came into existence in 1992 to non- which provides government organizations and maintaining old age homes, day care centers and medicare units.

Apart from the nodal Ministry, other Ministries have also provided special benefits to the elderly.
running for The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 was enacted in December 2007, to ensure need based maintenance for parents and senior citizens and their welfare.
Maintenance of Parents or senior citizens by is made obligatory and children or relatives justifiable through Tribunals • Revocation of transfer of property by senior citizens in case of negligence by relatives • Penal provision for abandonment of senior citizens PROVISIONS FOR THE ELDERLY WITHIN INDIA • Establishment of Old Age Homes for Indigent Senior Citizens • Adequate medical facilities and security for Senior Citizens Refer Annexure 3 for a detailed list of government initiatives for the elderly in India.
Within the international framework of human rights for the elderly as a backdrop and specific provisions and scenario within the country, the sense of security for the elderly becomes a potent question to be addressed, especially in a protracted, diverse and urbanized geography like Delhi NCR.
India, over the years has developed policies for the elderly which can be broken up into constitutional provisions, legal provisions, addressing the elderly under personal laws including the Hindu laws, Muslim laws, Christian and Parsi laws and some others.

The Code of Criminal Procedures (Cr.PC) also includes a section for maintenance of parents.
Some of the key government policies and schemes for the elderly include National Policy for Older Persons initiated in 1999 to promote the health, safety, social security as well as wellbeing of the elderly in the country.

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment constituted a National Council for Older Persons specific for programmes and schemes for the elderly, advice and provide feedback to the government on implementation of schemes.
creating a An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 9 intends to draw out certain key findings from this study and provide a roadmap for improving the sense of security of the elderly in the context of their human rights.

SENSE OF SECURITY IN OLD AGE find themselves In absence of family support and care, sense of security is missing among older persons, which is making their life painful and insecure day by day.
In highly industrialized as well as commercialized areas of the country like Delhi-NCR, most of the older persons isolated and marginalized as their old age related needs remain unattended at all levels.

Despite a growing share in population they are not getting due attention in the society.

Another alarming aspect of the same issue is the increasing record of abuse faced by the elderly.
This could be mental or physical abuse and at most times it emanates from the immediate surroundings, in effect, the family of the elderly.

Disputes over property, finances and emotional blackmail are common in old age.

However, all of this is dwarfed in the light of the most pressing issue faced by the elderly today, especially in highly urbanized areas like Delhi NCR.

This is the issue of alienation.


Since there is no one to share their days with, most of the elderly in Delhi NCR are left to fend for themselves.

Some may have the resources to do so, some may not.

Yet, the underlying factor remains the same.

Most of them are deprived of compassion and human company.

This may not be deliberate but it is one of the most pressing issues faced by the elderly today.
SCOPE OF STUDY The scope of this study is to understand the issues related to the sense of security of older persons and their human rights within Delhi NCR.
With a vast experience in research and advocacy in the field of old age and direct interactions with the elderly and their care givers, Agewell Foundation An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 10 Chapter 2 Objectives and Research Methodology OBJECTIVES AND RESEARCH METHODOLOGY The Research & Advocacy Centre at Agewell Foundation has carried out a survey to study the sense of security among older persons & their human rights.
Within the survey, it was attempted to assess the living conditions of older persons and to identify responsible factors for violation of their human rights.

Sense of security among older persons is a broad term which is determined by numerous factors associated with old age.

To assess the level of sense of security among older persons and their human rights many issues concerning old age were identified issues were in the survey.
These and broadly categorized as under: included • Financial Status of Older Persons • Healthcare Status of Older Persons • Social Status of Older Persons • Old Age Engagements • Support System in Old Age • Needs of Older Persons • Human Rights of Older Persons and Relevant Legal Provisions • Participation of Older Persons KEY OBJECTIVES • To assess the impact of emerging socio- economic scenario on the sense of emotional, physical, medical, legal and financial security among older persons and their related human rights.
• To assess the status of older persons’ awareness about human rights in the target area.

• To spread awareness about human rights amongst old people on the basis of this study.

METHODOLOGY AND SAMPLE DESIGN from inputs respondents To collect the information, impressions, views and other survey questionnaire was designed by the research team.
Questions were finalized in a manner so that all required information could be collected easily during interactions with the respondents to meet the research objectives.

a supervisors as per Agewell volunteers were selected as interviewers their qualifications, and commitments and availability.

Further they were provided with proper guidelines, directions and training before initiating the survey.

Interviewer training included the following; • How to make the interview interactive?
• How to persuade non-cooperative family members of older persons?

• How to encourage older persons for interview?

TOOLS USED FOR DATA COLLECTION The survey questionnaire was developed in an easy to understand language and translated into Hindi for the convenience of volunteers/interviewers.

It was developed in such a way that all relevant information respondents while from could be interacting with them.
(See Annexures) collected DURATION OF THE SURVEY The interviews were conducted during the month of October & November, 2012.

An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 12 SAMPLING For the survey a representative sample of 1500 older persons (768 older men and 732 older women) were interviewed.

The sample units were selected based on random sampling but taken care to incorporate the representative views of the region from 3 divisions which included Delhi, NCR –Uttar Pradesh and NCR – Haryana.
Sample respondents included older persons from all strata's of society, including rich, poor, working, non- working, rural, urban, men, women, disabled, irrespective to caste, creed and religion.

Interviewers were also instructed to prefer to reach out to older persons at their homes, instead easily accessible older persons, in market/public places.
Region & Districts Male Respondents Female Respondents Total respondents Region 1 – Delhi New Delhi South Delhi North Delhi East Delhi Central Delhi West Delhi South West Delhi North East Delhi 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Region 2 –NCR (Uttar Pradesh) 9.

10.

Gautam Budh Nagar Ghaziabad District Region 3 – NCR (Haryana) 11.

Gurgaon 12.

13.

14.

15.


Faridabad Jhajjar Rohtak Sonepat Total Respondents Table 1Geographic Areas covered during survey The table above shows an even distribution across a large geographical spread covering a majority of Delhi and most of the relevant NCR areas including Sonepat, Rohtak and Ghaziabad on the periphery of Delhi.
This allows for an inclusive and representative sample and takes into account the differing localized cultures, reactions and attitudes towards questions related to old age.

The habits and practices of the respondents identified across varied locations were also varied.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 13 Chapter 3 Data Analysis and Interpretation An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 14 SUMMARY FINDINGS The data has been divided into sections as follows:           Age and Gender Distribution of Respondents  Location Distribution of Respondents  Financial Status of Older Persons  Social Status of Older Persons  Health Status of Older Persons  Old Age Engagements  Support Systems in Old Age  Most Urgent Requirements in Old Age  Human Rights of Older Persons and Legal Provisions  Participation of Older Persons KEY FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY • Almost every 5th older person (21% respondents) were earning or getting monthly income of less than Rs.
1000.

• 36.4% respondents i.e.

536 older persons are in the monthly income group of Rs.

1001 – Rs.

5000.

• 40.40% older persons were living with their joint families.

36.4% respondents said that they are living with their spouse only.

• 4/5th older persons (80.2%) admitted that they need some form of support in their old age.

• Almost (35.53%) respondent was not enjoying good health; they admitted that their health condition is poor.

elderly every third • Only 1/5th older persons i.e.
305 out of 1500 older persons were found to be involved in some income generational occupations in old age.

• 76.4% older men involved in some income generation activity.

• 22.8% older persons were getting some kind of support from government.

• 53.67% elderly respondents said that they are not getting proper respect from younger generations at family level, while 36.53% reportedly being older persons were respected by their younger family members.
• More than 2/3rd elderly respondents (68.07%) admitted that they are facing negligence in old age.

• Almost half (53.4%) respondents claimed that they face elder abuse in old age while 46.6% said that they are not facing harassment or mistreatment in old age.

• As per survey data, older persons were forced to live with incidences of elder abuse due to 36.96% their incidences respondents were facing such almost daily.
family members, while Most urgent requirements in old age Requirements \ Priority Treatment for illness & Medicines Respect from others Peaceful life Food Some work permanent shelter Clothes Total First 335 Second Third 293 216 331 245 205 175 114 95 1500 280 260 251 189 126 101 1500 236 201 301 212 161 173 1500 Table 2 Most urgent requirements of in old age An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 15 1.
AGE AND GENDER DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONDENTS o Under the survey older people were divided in three simple age-groups so that more realistic the findings could be achieved out of responses.

These included 60 to 70 years, 71 to 75 years and 76 plus.  o Majority of respondents (55.92%) were from the age group of 60-70 years.
22.73% of the respondents were from the age group 71-75 years and remaining 24.33% respondents were senior most citizens of the region.  o Easy availability and high visibility of young older persons (60-70 years) in the sample size is the main reason for their high representation.  o Representation of older women & older men was almost same (51.2% &48.8% older men & older women respectively). Percentage of Respondents Based on Age 24% 23% 53% 60-70 71-75 75+ Figure 1: Percentage of Respondents Based on Age An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 16 Number of Respondents Based on Gender 405 389 176 165 187 178 Older Men Older Women 500 400 300 200 100 0 60-70 71-75 75+ Figure 2: Number of Respondents Based on Gender 2.
LOCATION DISTRIBUTION OF RESPONDENTS o Since Delhi-NCR is one of the most industrialized zones of the country, people from different parts of country come here for better prospects and livelihood.
Majority of them have different lifestyles but they settle down here and don’t want to move back to their native place in old age.  o With an objective to assess the status of older in various situations and persons living conditions, the populace of 60+ years was randomly selected as per the following groups: • Rural Elderly Men • Rural Elderly Women • Urban Elderly Men • Urban Elderly Women categories A cross section of respondents were included from across professionals, pensioners, non-pensioners, literate, illiterate and those from financially diverse backgrounds.
retired like Location Distribution of Respondents Rural Elderly Urban Elderly 75+ 71-75 89 71 60-70 124 276 270 670 Figure 3: Location Distribution of Respondents An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 17 3.

FINANCIAL STATUS OF OLDER PERSONS • Almost every 5th older person (21% respondents) i.e.

315 older persons out of total 1500 elderly respondents were earning or getting monthly income of less than Rs.

1000.

• 23.87% older persons i.e.

358 older persons said that their monthly income is in Rs.
5001- 10000 group, while 12.67 % respondents were in group of Rs.

10001-15000.

• 36.4% respondents i.e.

536 older persons are in the monthly income group of Rs.

1001 – Rs.

5000.

• Only 101 i.e.

6.73% older persons were found in comfortable monthly income group i.e.

>Rs.

15000/- .

Distribution of Respondents Based on Monthly Income 7% 12% 24% 21% 36% < Rs.1000 Rs.

1001-5000 Rs.

5001-10000 Rs.

10001-15000 >Rs.

15000 Figure 4: Distribution of Respondents Based on Monthly Income 4.
SOCIAL STATUS OF OLDER PERSONS To assess the social status of older persons in Delhi & NCR, some basic information regarding their family structure was taken from respondents.

• 40.40% older persons (606 out of 1500 respondents) were living in joint families.

• 36.4% respondents said that they are living with their spouse only.

• Almost 1/4th of the respondents have no family members living with them.

23.2% older persons agreed that they are living on their own.

• It was found that approx.


60% elderly (894 out of 1500 older persons) were not living in joint families.

An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 18 • 34% of respondents i.e.

304 elderly people out of 894 older persons, not living in joint families said that they are living alone or with their spouse but their children/grand-children are living in the same area.
Family Structure of Respondents 40% 23% 37% Single Elderly couple Joint family Figure 5: Family Structure of Respondents • When asked about need of any family member or relative’s support in old age, 4/5th older persons (80.2%) admitted that they need such support in their old age.

• Older persons in the age group of 75+ years were found more dependent on their family members/relatives where 95.64% older persons felt such need in their prime old age.
• Only 19.8% respondents reportedly said that they don’t need support from their family members or relatives.

They told interviewers that they can manage things or have learnt living without anybody’s support in old age.

found • Young older persons in the age group of 60-70 years were comparatively much comfortable with their age as only 73.39% said that they required support from their family members/relatives for any kind of problems they faced.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 19 Age Wise Family Support Requirement in Old Age All Age Groups 297 417 75+ years 71-75 years 60-70 years 19 71 215 207 571 0 500 1203 No Yes Figure 6: Age Wise Family Support Requirement in Old Age 1000 1500 • When it was attempted to ascertain the level of need intensity, it was analyzed that most of the elderly in need of family support (38.99% i.e.

489 out of 1203 older persons) need their family members/relatives as and when the situation demands.
They don’t need regular family support.

• Almost a third or 32.25% elderly respondents were of the view that they need family member/relative/s help/support almost daily.

5.

HEALTH STATUS OF OLDER PERSONS • During the survey as a primary old age issue, it was attempted to assess the healthcare status of the respondents.

• Almost every third elderly (35.53%) i.e.

533 out of 1500 respondents were not enjoying good health; their health condition is poor.
they admitted that • 28.4% older persons said that their health is good and they are not facing any serious health problem in old age.

• 36.07% older persons reportedly claimed that their present health condition is average.

However, they were facing many old age related problems.

• When data collected was analyzed, it was found that health condition of elderly men was poor in comparison to health status of elderly women.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 20 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Health Condition of the Elderly 426 541 533 Good Average Poor Figure 7: Health Condition of the Elderly • As per survey data, chronic illness/disability was the major reason for poor health condition of older persons.

386 out of 533 older persons said that they are facing chronic illness and/or disability, that is why they cannot not enjoy good health.
• Unhygienic living conditions were the second major reason for poor health condition of elderly.

360 out of 533 older persons with poor health claimed that due to poor and unhygienic living conditions they are prone to various diseases from time to time.

• Out of 533 older persons facing health related problems, 311 older persons admitted that they could not afford or get nutritious food to keep them physically as well mentally fit.
• Non availability of timely medicines and medical help, no health care facilities, etc.

were other major reasons for poor health condition in old age.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 21 Major Reasons for Poor Health Condition in Old Age 18% 20% 23% 25% Lack of Nutritious Food 14% Non-availability of medicines/medical Help Chronic illness/ Disability Unhygienic Living Conditions Figure 8: Major Reasons for Poor Health Condition in Old Age • According to 44% respondents, status of health care facilities in their area is poor.

660 out of 1500 older persons were not satisfied with present health care facilities.
• 32.33% older persons put health care services in the category of average while only 23.67% admitted that status of present day health care facilities can be termed as good.

• 76.4% older persons said that there is no special provision or exclusive health care facility for older persons.

23.6% elderly older persons admitted that they have heard about some special provision for elderly.

• When asked about whether they got benefit, 306 out of 354 admitted that they were benefitted from such provisions.
Most common reason for Poor Health Lack of nutritious food non-availability of medicines / medical help Chronic illness / disability Unhygienic living conditions Any other Total Respondents 311 215 386 360 228 1500 Table 3 Most common reasons for poor health of older persons An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 22 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Status of Health Care Facilities 355 485 Good Average 660 Poor Figure 9: Status of Health Care Facilities • Only 5.6% older persons said that in their area they are involved in one or more health care schemes.
bedridden older patients.

Out of which 74 admitted that this scheme was launched during the last year only.

• Only 13.4% i.e.

201 older persons were aware for disabled/ of a government scheme • 95.07% respondents said that they were not aware of any such scheme.

6.

OLD AGE ENGAGEMENTS • Only 1/5th older persons i.e.

305 out of 1500 older persons found to be involved in some income generational occupations in old age.

• Surprisingly out of 305 older persons involved in i.e.
income generational activities, 233 76.4% were older men and only 72 older women were indulged in any such activities.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 23 Number of Respondents Productively Engaged in Old Age No 535 660 Yes 233 72 Elderly men Elderly Women 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 Figure 10: Number of Respondents Productively Engaged in Old Age • 38.58% of older persons who are not involved in any income generational occupations said that they want to work in old age, so that they earn some money and keep themselves busy as well.
• When respondents were asked about their failure to get some work in old age, 66.81% older persons admitted that there are hardly any or no such opportunities that keep them engaged.

• Majority of older persons (almost 3/4th respondents) were not engaged in any such gainful work or social activities that could provide satisfaction to them in old age.

They admitted that their experience and knowledge is not being utilized anywhere.
• Only 23.6% older persons admitted that they were engaged in income generational/social activities in which their past experience is being utilized.

• Approx.

1/3rd older persons i.e.

33.19% respondents there were opportunities but those were not suitable to them.
that said An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 24 Percentage of Respondents Wanting To Be Productively Engaged in Old Age 39% Yes No 61% Figure 11: Percentage of Respondents Wanting To Be Productively Engaged in Old Age Number of Respondents Engaged in Activities Relevant to Experience 1146 354 Yes No Figure 12: Number of Respondents Engaged in Activities Relevant to Experience 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 25 7.
SUPPORT SYSTEM IN OLD AGE • 22.8% older persons interacted during the survey said that they were getting some kind of support from government.

They were getting support in terms of financial, medical, legal and other help in old age.

• But 77.2% respondents were of the view that they are not getting any old age support individually from government.

They admitted that they are not dependent on government welfare schemes directly.
• When getting governmental support in any kind, were asked respondents those about the duration of the support, almost 1/3rd (126 out of 342 beneficiaries of government schemes) were found getting support for more than 10 years.

• 25.76% elderly respondents (88 out of 342) were getting such support for 7-10 years.
• Majority of respondents, who admitted that they are government schemes beneficiaries, were in the category of Old Age Pension schemes followed by medical/health care schemes, under which 164 older persons were found being benefitted.
1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 Support from the Government 1158 342 Yes No Figure 13: Support from the Government An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 26 Duration of Support from Government >10 yrs 7-10 years 3-6 yrs <1-3 years 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 Figure 14: Duration of Support from Government 8.
MOST URGENT REQUIREMENTS IN OLD AGE • Most of the older persons (335 out of 1500) interviewed during the survey admitted that treatment for illness and medicines was their first priority, while respect in old age was seen by 331 older persons as their priority.

• 245 older persons were in favor of peaceful life in old age when they were asked about their most urgent requirement.

Requirement of food was ranked 4th in the category of first priority for most urgent requirement.
• In Delhi & NCR requirements like shelter and clothes were ranked rather low.

• When respondents were asked about their second most urgent requirement, almost the similar trend was seen, which was expressed for first priority by older persons.

• Treatment for various diseases and medicines was again ranked first by the older persons (293) as their second most urgent requirement in old age following by 280 older persons, who ranked respectful old age as second most urgent requirement.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 27 Most Urgent Requirements in Old Age 335 293 216 331 301 280 260 236 245 251 201 205 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 212 189 175 161 173 126 114 95101 First Priority Second Priority Third Priority Treatment Respect for illness & Medicines from others Peaceful life Food Some work Permanent Clothes shelter Figure 15: Most Urgent Requirements in Old Age 9.
HUMAN RIGHTS OF OLDER PERSONS & LEGAL PROVISIONS • 53.67% elderly respondents said that they are not getting proper respect from younger generations at family level, while 36.53% i.e.

548 older persons out of 1500 older persons were reportedly being respected by their younger family members.

• When data collected by interviewers was analyzed, it was found that in general society this situation is comparatively better, where 43.67% respondents admitted that they are getting younger respect generations.
Here, almost every second old person was not getting due respect.

proper from • 709 out of 1500 respondents said that they have no idea about status of respect of elderly at national level, whereas only 23.6% older persons accepted that senior citizens are being respected at national level in the country.

52.73% older persons said that they are not getting proper respect at national level.

• More than 2/3rd elderly respondents (68.07%) admitted that they are facing negligence in old age.
Out of 1500 older persons interacted during the survey 1021 people felt that they are being neglected.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 28 Negligence of Elderly 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% 354 655 548 791 755 805 709 90 147 Yes No Don’t Know Figure 16: Negligence of Elderly Types of Issues Faced by the Elderly Physical Violence 257 Abuse Negligence 544 479 956 1021 At national level In society At family level 1243 No Yes 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 Figure 17: Types of Issues Faced by the Elderly • When respondents were asked about their opinion on the factors responsible for such incidences, approx.
34% blamed diminishing traditional / cultural values while 30% said that breaking up of joint family system is the most responsible factor.

As per 23.47% older persons changing socio-economic scenario is most responsible factor for rising cases of violation of human rights of older persons in the society.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 29 Factors Responsible for Violation of Human Rights for Elderly 12% 24% 34% 30% Changing socio-economic conditions Breaking up of joint families Diminishing traditional/ cultural values Other Factors Figure 18: Factors Responsible for Violation of Human Rights for Elderly • Respondents were also asked a few questions to check their awareness level about the government’s initiatives / schemes affecting welfare and empowerment of older persons.
• Older persons have limited knowledge of The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007, where only 12.27% respondents i.e.

124 old people out of 1500 admitted that they have heard about this act.

Awareness of Legal Provisions • So far as RTI Act (Right to Information Act) 2005 was concerned, again only 284 older persons i.e.

18.93% respondents said that they know about this act.
• 77.4% respondents said that they do not have any idea about Domestic Violence Act or IPC 498A (Anti Dowry).

Domestic Voilence Act / IPC 498A 339 1161 RTI Act (Right to Information Act) 2005 284 1216 The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007 184 1316 No Yes 0 500 1000 1500 Figure 19: Awareness of Legal Provisions An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 30 • 38.27% elderly respondents were being abused within their respective families and/or in society.
• 17.13% older persons contacted during the survey reportedly claimed that they are victims of physical violence in old age.

Incidence of Elder Abuse • Almost half (53.4%) respondents claimed that they face elder abuse in old age while 46.6% said that they are not facing harassment or mistreatment in old age.
850 800 750 700 650 600 801 Yes 699 No Figure 20: Incidence of Elder Abuse • When data obtained from the respondents was analyzed it was found that amongst 801 older persons reportedly facing elder abuse, almost every second old person (405) was facing elder abuse in their families.

31.09% said that they are being mistreated or misbehaved within their society while 18.35% older persons were victims of elder abuse at both, family and society.
• When older persons suffering from abuse in families were asked to figure out those people who are harassing them, most older persons (42.57%) said that they were mistreated by their daughters-in-law, while 1/3rd (33.33%) claimed that they were being harassed by their own children/ grandchildren.

Some people (6.34%) were also found harassed by their spouses.
Incidents of Abuse by Location 18% 31% 51% At family level only In society only At both level Figure 21: Incidents of Abuse by Location An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 31 Perpetrators of Abuse 6% 18% Spouse 33% Children/grand children Daughters-in-law Others 43% Figure 22: Perpetrators of Abuse • As per survey data, older persons are forced to live with incidences of elder abuse due to their family members.

36.96% respondents were facing such incidences almost daily.
• 34.09% respondents said that they face such situations 2-3 times a week.

While 40.4% elderly in this category were reportedly facing harassment as per circumstances.

• Among older persons facing elder abuse at society level, 41.67% respondents claimed that their neighborhood is a major reason for this situation.

Misbehavior was the major reason as per 31.57% respondents in this category.

• At society level, 40.4% elderly respondents admitted that frequency of such incidences depend upon circumstances.
800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Incidents Reported to Authorities 725 76 Reported Not Reported Figure 23: Incidents Reported to Authorities An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 32 • When older persons facing various forms of elder abuse were asked about reporting elder abuse cases with some concerned authorities like local police, NGOs, various courts, etc., it was found that only 9.49% i.e.

76 out of 801 old people reported their complaint while 90.51% did not report their cases.
• Among reported those older persons who have some complaint with their competent bodies, 28 older persons admitted that action taken upon their complaints was satisfactory and 33 said that they are not satisfied with the action taken.

• As per 65.87% respondents there is no exclusive legal authority which can provide justice to older persons.

34.13% older persons accepted that older persons can get legal justice when they are in need.

10.
10.

PARTICIPATION OF OLDER PERSONS • When it was attempted to assess the status of in socio- participation of older persons economic activities, it was analyzed that only 26.87% (403 out of 1500 older persons) respondents were of the view that older persons also have opportunities to participate in socio-economic activities.
• Older persons don’t prioritize purely income generating activities, instead they prefer to get involved in such gainful occupational activities found those can satisfy their social obligations as well.

in Older persons were organizations working in social, community, public welfare sector, such as RWAs, NGOs, local community bodies, etc.

as SHGs, volunteers/ honorary workers.


involved • 48% respondents said that there are no opportunities for older persons while 25.13% older persons said that they have no idea about availability of such opportunities.

Elderly Participation in Socio-Economic Activities DK/can't say No Yes 0 200 400 600 800 Figure 24: Elderly Participation in Socio-Economic Activities An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 33 • According to 47.47% older persons they have say in decision making process at community level.
At family level 42.73% older persons admitted that their family members take their opinion or ask for their views on family matters.

• said that • 34.07% older persons they participate or their participation is sought in various forms in decision making process at national level certain activities were considered as decision making level.

At national process seeking like general elections, suggestions/information from older persons like by various government authorities pension, banking, investment, etc.
gathered about also Information was participation in various social activities such as religious behavior, political participation and time pursuing activities and friends/relatives.

Older persons were reportedly busier with these kinds of things.
cultural activities, leisure Elderly Participation at Various Levels 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 149 710 107 681 641 712 244 745 511 At family level At community level At national level Figure 25: Elderly Participation at Various Levels DK/Can't say No Yes An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 34 REPRESENTATIVE STATEMENTS FROM OLDER PERSONS “We have been living alone here for last 8 years with no family support.
Our children have settled in Mumbai and visit us on special occasions but we cannot expect regular family support from them.

Though we have learnt to live with loneliness but at this prime old age, we are suffering a lot” Manohar Lal, 78 years, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi *** “I am totally dependent on my children for my basic needs like food and medicines, as I have no source of income.

They treat me like a caretaker of the house.


When they are out for their work and grandchildren for their schools, I have to take care of their house.

They neither respect me nor seek my opinion in family matters.

It hurts me a lot.” Shiv Mohan Sharma, 75, Sector-25, Noida *** “I was admitted to hospital for treatment of cancer couple of months ago, but no family members come here to see me except my daughter.

I am like a dead body for them.


They have left me to die here.” Shabnam Qureshi, 82 years, Faridabad “My daughter-in-law and elder son want me to vacate my own house, built by my husband with his hard earned money.

They abuse me frequently and sometimes hit me also.

My other sons don’t want to indulge in the matter because of threats of dire consequences given by elder son.

When I approached to the police, they said that it’s your family matter we cannot help.
Where should I go?” Radhika Gupta, 66-year-old widow, Rangpuri, New Delhi *** *** An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 35 Chapter 4 Findings of the Study OBSERVATIONS In order to observe the nuances of the above mentioned data analysis, the survey data would be divided into broad headings.

The data shows that there is a looming sense of insecurity amongst the traditional respondents which extends beyond boundaries and envelopes like government approach, support systems and challenging existing value systems.
participatory support, issues larger RESPONDENT PROFILING Before delving into the observations related to core objective areas it is imperative to understand the basic parameters of our response base.

It was observed that a majority of respondents were in the young elderly category or in other words, between the age group of 60 to 70 years.
With an almost equal gender distribution, the majority participants of this survey represent the most active old age segment – those people who have just stepped into a retirement scenario with another 10 to 15 years to interactions with most of the live.

From the respondents, in the higher age brackets, diversity unique to a highly urbanized geography was observed.

The respondents were not necessarily native to Delhi NCR.
Some had come to the city voluntarily or due to compulsions while including those others were second or third generation residents.

This allowed for a varied perspective on questions regarding human security and participation in socio-economic activities.

rights, abuse, FINANCIAL STATUS OF OLDER PERSONS to retirement issues.

The As per the study, a majority of respondents were earning a small or negligible monthly income.
This is primarily due from their age, productive work or other factors including lack of opportunities and health financial condition of the elderly is one of the key areas of concern as lack of financial literacy, reactive rather than proactive savings and ineffective investment decisions leave most people beyond the age of 60 with reduced finances at their disposal.
This problem becomes even more protracted when coupled with deeply entrenched traditional value systems that portray family and children as the support system for the elderly.

Living in a competitive and expensive location like Delhi NCR is a difficult proposition when the traditional value systems are challenged and questioned.

Today’s generation is unable to provide time and resources to the previous generation due to the highly competitive and fast paced life they are leading.
A Case Study Rajeshwari, a widow at age 69, is living in a tiny shack in an urban slum in Delhi.

When her husband passed away she was deserted by her family and now finds it difficult to make ends meet.

Lack of financial security is the core reason for her current condition.

At an age where she finds it difficult to do manual work, she is forced to work as domestic help or construction labor in order to survive.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 37 SOCIAL STATUS OF OLDER PERSONS Majority of respondents were living alone or in a nuclear setup.

This is a major trend that is observed is across geography as the joint family system eroding.

Need assessment showed that most old people required family support only when the situation demanded not on a daily basis.

Alienation is perhaps one of the key issues to be addressed at this juncture.
The uprooting of support systems in the final third of our lives may lead to a sense of vacuum which is hard to understand and deal with.

The problem becomes accentuated when because older people are being labeled as a problem primarily because there are more of them and the condition of older people is being constructed as a social problem and some sections of society are seeking to label it as 2 a crisis.
The ever widening generation gap, our fast paced lives, advent of technology and just the missing human touch is leading to fissures in our social fabric that will have lasting imprints.

For the elderly this would mean their own set of aspirations and expectations from their friends and family.

When these expectations are not met, a sense of insecurity sets in.

This insecurity may wear various masks but it exists nonetheless.
to their homes HEALTHCARE STATUS OF OLDER PERSONS A majority of respondents complained of ill health.

Most of them believed that unhygienic living conditions or a chronic illness or disability is the main reason for this.

Lack of proper healthcare facilities for the elderly is one of the key challenges to their basic human rights of life and right not to be treated in an inhuman or degrading way.
Unlike in the developed countries where healthcare systems are better evolved, a majority of the elderly in India are self-care or relegated unprofessional care from family.

Lack of hygienic surroundings and absence of special healthcare lack of facilities for the elderly coupled with awareness of government schemes is a key factor in this regard.

A recent study found anaemia, followed chronic by obstructive airway disease (COAD), cataract, and osteoarthritis as some of the most common ailments India.
Socio- the elderly demographic variables locality, caste, education, occupation, and income were important determinants of ailments and disease in the elderly.3 in northern like age, hypertension, problems, dental faced for A Case Study Hiramani, an 80 year old suffering arthritis was unable to use the bathroom for his daily needs.

Due to high cost of maintenance and affordability, he was unable to procure medical support rails to be fit in the bathroom.
This condition forced him to use adult diapers and bed pans when he does not even consider himself to be an invalid.

This highlights the need for mobility care, personal assistance or general help for the elderly and addresses human rights violations for older people 2 John A Vincent, Inequality And Old Age (Taylor & Francis, 2004), 1-3K.
Joshi, R. Kumar, and A. Avasthi, “Morbidity profile and its relationship with disability and psychological distress among elderly people in Northern India,” International Journal of Epidemiology 32 (2003): 978-980 who are not provided basic amenities and proper care assessment.

An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 38 issue is the A related lack of knowledge or information regarding government schemes and policies related to the healthcare of elderly.
For OLD AGE ENGAGEMENTS Majority of respondents stated that they were not productively engaged after retirement.

Interestingly, not all those engaged were happy with what they were doing as they felt their knowledge and expertise were not being used to the fullest.

Millions of older people cope constructively with the physical limitations, cognitive changes, and various losses, such as bereavement, that frequently are associated with late life.
Thus, successful ageing is contingent upon three elements: avoiding disease and disability, SUPPORT IN OLD AGE Government support for the elderly is a pressing issue especially in a developing nation like India.

Majority of respondents were not receiving any support from the government in any form.

Those receiving it were mostly part of the old age pension scheme.

Most elderly women are dependent on the spouse or family for support and hence to do not receive any support from the government.
Old age income security is one of the key concerns for the elderly.

While most of us do not start saving for our retirement actively for a long time, those beyond 60.

NEEDS OF OLDER PERSONS Healthcare remains the most important need for the elderly.

Peaceful life and respect from others are other needs that are at par.
Given the condition of the elderly, it is obvious that healthcare would be top of the mind recall for them and hence more efforts need to be made to improve healthcare facilities for them.

example, hardly any of the respondents were aware of the initiatives by the Government like the IPOP.

sustaining high cognitive and physical function, and engaging with life.4 longevity.
With higher Old age engagement is a direct offshoot of advances life in medicine and expectancy and weaker economic and financial conditions many people beyond the age of 60 are to continue working or be engaged inclined productively for the foreseeable future.

with minimal savings find it difficult to sustain.


Government schemes like the New Pension System and other such initiatives are perhaps steps in the right direction to support the elderly through voluntary contributions towards securing income in their old age.

The existing National Old Age Pension and Scheme implementation.
Calculations of another study5 highlight a significant gap between the number of people eligible for IGNOAPS and the people covered in FY 2010-11. inadequate reach its in is Social stigma, religion, caste and socio-economic status are just some of the factors that pose as challenges to effective healthcare for the elderly in India.

Reduced mobility, limited reach and declining social engagements all come together to accentuate this problem further.
4 Madhu Jain, Anamika Sharma and Ruchi Joshi, “Effectiveness of Productive Engagement in Work in Using the Coping Strategies of Religious Senior Citizen,” Indian Journal of Gerontology 27 (2013): 256-60 5 Avani Kapur, “Budget Briefs-National Social Assistance Program,” Accountability Initiative, Issue 6 4 (2013): 3-4 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 39 HUMAN RIGHTS OF OLDER PERSONS AND LEGAL PROVISIONS is ever considered for taking The biggest question mark in today’s society is the generation gap that exists between the youth and previous generations.
A large number of respondents faced negligence and abuse in their old age.

These are indicators of larger issues within our society.

This is directly linked to the premise that old age is some form of a disease that has to be dealt with.

The wavelength of generations does not match.

No older person important decisions in the house.

Neglect is felt in terms of isolation, abandonment and social exclusion.
Violation of human, legal and medical rights and deprivation of choices, decisions, status, finances and respect are key pointers on rights violations of the elderly.7 Social stigma attached to rights violation or abuse in old age is deep and hence not many people are forthcoming in their disclosure and while they might describe severe acts of violence either mental or physical, they would find it difficult to label it as abuse.
Chronic verbal abuse was the most common followed by financial abuse, physical abuse, and neglect as per another study.

A significantly higher number of women faced abuse as compared with men; adult children, daughters-in-law, spouses, and sons-in-law were the prominent perpetrators.8 The peculiarity of the situation comes through when we notice the figures on abuse being reported.

It is seen that a very small percentage of cases are actually reported.

This implies two important points.


First, the inclination to report such incidents is low.

This can be attributed to the fact that not many older people are keen to get embroiled in a legal tussle with their own family members.

The social stigma attached to such measures is also considered high.

The other point is perhaps a silver lining – most cases are not reported and resolved within the family itself.

This shows that one of the best ways to reduce elder abuse is through the family itself.
Sensitization of peer groups, family members, caregivers and the elderly persons themselves can go a long way in resolving most issues faced by them.

In view of high rate of incidences of criminal activities against older persons living alone in Delhi & NCR, older persons are forced to live with a sense of insecurity in more ways than one.

Despite continued local authorities viz assurances from concerned Police, etc.
about their safety & security, they find themselves more vulnerable and treat themselves as soft targets of anti-social elements.

Older persons living with their family members are also suffering from this fear factor.

Due to various problems including a behavior of resentment with family members and marginalization they often suspect their own family members of foul play.

Majority of human rights violation cases are associated with family members or relatives of the older persons.
People getting benefits from social security schemes are better off in comparison to those totally dependent on their family members.

However, in old age, people rate their emotional security higher than their social security.
7 Shubha Soneja, “Elder Abuse in India,” Missing Voices, Word Health Organization (2002) 8 Srinivasan Chokkanathan MPhil ; Alex E. Y. Lee Ph.D., “Elder Mistreatment in Urban India: A Community Based Study,” Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect, Issue 6 17 (2005): 48-55 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 40 Awareness of legal provisions was seen to be low across all sections of respondents.

This is something that should be addressed by stakeholders across the board.
While powerful legislation exists for the benefit of the elderly, not too many of them are well versed or aware of the same.

A miniscule percentage of respondents knew of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007.

The same was the case for RTI Act, 2005 and Domestic Violence and IPC 498A.
With a little over 4000 cases reported by the National Crime Records Bureau against senior citizens (aged 50 and above) from 2008 to 2012 9 it is obvious that a majority of elder abuse cases go unreported and hence no action is ever taken.
PARTICIPATION OF OLDER PERSONS While research shows that cognitive abilities and not age play a role in decision making, the findings of this survey suggest that not too many households are allow the elderly to be a part of the decision making process.10 While the advancement in technology and fast paced lives have marginalized the elderly, it is unfair to believe that age is responsible for reduced capabilities to think clearly.
The plethora of knowledge and experience an elder person has cannot and should not be ignored.

Relegation to the sidelines at home ensures that older people become active voters.

Voting in a democratic country allows an elderly person to express his opinion and feel important as a stakeholder in the democratic process – a feeling that most old persons are deprived of at home.

An interesting duality exists in Indian society and merits a mention in the present scenario.
While we are busy living our own lives and marginalizing our own parents and other older relatives at home, we go out of our way to greet, respect and engage with elderly people in our immediate neighborhood be it at home or in our professional space.

This is primarily due to existing social norms which accrue the highest respect to age and the elderly.

The above mentioned observations point towards a distinct fissure in our social fabric.
While we as a nation accord the highest respect to the elderly it is unfortunate to note that older persons are clubbed under the head of disadvantaged section of society along with drug addicts, beggars, etc.

as a point of in the Ministry of Social Justice & reference Empowerment, which is expected to insure welfare of old people.

Till the time we do not change our perspectives and premises regarding the elderly in our nation, it would be difficult to sustain any long term solutions for their welfare.
In an area like Delhi NCR where the pace of life is miles ahead of those moving into their twilight years, the analysis from this survey only shows that a lot needs to be done to improve the life of our elders.

This includes safeguarding their basic rights and individuals, securing them from elder abuse and allowing them in society, a dignified and respected position starting from within the four walls of our homes.
9 “Crimes against Senior Citizen during 2008-2012”, http://ncrb.co.in 10 Study finds old age does not affect decision-making quality, http://www.dukechronicle.com/articles/2010/06/29/study-finds-old-age-does-not-affect- decision-making-quality An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 41 Chapter 5 Conclusion and Recommendations CONCLUSION A holistic approach to population ageing taking social, economic and into consideration is needed to effectively solve the emerging problems of the elderly.
changes cultural Based on the existing diversities in the ageing process, it may be stated that there is a need to pay greater attention to the increasing awareness on the ageing issues and its socio-economic effects and to and promote programmes for dealing with an ever increasing elderly population of Delhi-NCR.
the development of policies Today, we urgently need an inclusive social security program for older persons at grass root level while utilizing tools like value based education, awareness generation, research & advocacy in order to protect the human rights of older persons.

Though legal provisions and practices have very little to do with old age, they certainly determine the path of building and developing an environment of social harmony towards the elderly.
Therefore there is an urgent need to relook at the existing legal provisions and come up with more equitable, effective and strong legal provisions to encourage older persons- friendly legal practices in the country.

This should be followed by spreading awareness of the same with equal zeal.

Setting up Special fast track courts for senior citizens is the need of the hour.

It will encourage older persons to fight against any form of abuse they may face.
At the same time, concerned legal authorities should have proper mechanisms for providing legal counseling to older persons who want to seek legal help.

This would not only decrease the workload on our judiciary but also reassure older persons about quick and satisfactory resolution of their problems.

Social participation is deemed to have a strong bearing on the health and life quality of older people.

There increase social participation of older people.
is an urgent need to RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PROTECTIONF OF HUMAN RIGHTS OF ELDERLY At the grass root level following short-term but practical steps should be undertaken to bring the sense of security among older persons and protect their human rights:  Setting up a 24-Hr- Dedicated Helpline for Older Persons living in distress conditions  Mass Awareness Drive through various media viz.
Schools, RWAs, media and other institutional stakeholders  Lessons/chapters about old age issues to be included in curriculum of primary and secondary education to sensitize children towards old people and their needs.     Policies and schemes pertaining to old age and older persons should be reviewed and all aspects of their life to be given equal consideration.  Special focus to be given to social security programs for people working in non-formal and unorganized sectors like farmers, contract laborers and others.  Legal cases of people above 60 years to be   sorted out on priority basis by making special arrangements like setting up Special fast track courts, appointing retired advocates & judges as volunteers, etc. An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 43  Interaction/recreation centers for older persons to be set up on a large scale with provisions of basic /general facilities like general medical unit, utility bill collection service, family counseling unit, etc.  To engage older persons in social activities like tuition classes for children and counseling centers for needy people to be conducted at interaction centers.  Age care centers to be set up at block level to look after abandoned old people.  Dedicated Helpline for Older Persons living in distress conditions to be conducted at district level.  As a short term measure, mass awareness drive to be launched through various media viz.
Schools, Residents Associations, media, issues etc.
for creating awareness about concerning old age and needs & rights of older persons.  Extended research grants to understand issues pertaining to the elderly in deeper detail so that positive recommendations with a clear action plan may be formulated and executed.  Corporate participation in providing solutions for the elderly may be sought through the CSR channels for specific, solution centric initiatives.       For many, old age has a direct link with insecurity, as it brings a lot of problems with it.
Older persons living in Delhi-NCR are not an exception to this view.

In Delhi-NCR older persons are comparatively more secured financially, but their level of emotional is very high.

In fast changing socio- insecurity economic set up of Delhi-NCR, old people face increased incidences of age discrimination, elder abuse and mistreatment, which are aberrations in any civilized society.
Creating a sense of security in old age, spreading awareness about Human Rights of Older Persons in the society, particularly among older persons and protection of their human rights has become an uphill task for all of us.

In addition to social security program for older persons, today, there is an urgent need to involve older persons in different socio-economic activities at various levels.
At the same time, concerned stakeholders must focus on creating an older persons friendly society, in which older persons can live with a sense of security and their rights are respected by all.

Existing research remains patchy when it comes to core issues concerning the elderly.

While data is available at an aggregate level on key parameters concerning the elderly a lot more is required in order to further understand the nuances of the problems faced by them.
It is therefore imperative on us to conduct more primary research in this sector and situation with objectivity and approach the to draw out more in order professionalism observations and analysis both qualitative and quantitative so that future interventions are based formulated on empirical evidence and well programmes.

Last but not the least, it is important to remember that the elderly are a reflection of our society and us.
While we may talk at length on issues concerning them, let us not objectify them in the process.

A participatory approach is the only approach that will work and sustain in the long run.

The fault lines are deep and well entangled and require a concerted effort not just at a macro level but a consolidated push from the elderly themselves.
It is hence very important for all relevant stakeholders to come together and make this world a better place for our parents and others living in twilight of their life.

An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 44 Chapter 6 Annexure ANNEXURE 1 CORE HUMAN RIGHTS TREATIES There are nine core human rights treaties that are monitored by the United Nations.
These are: • The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) • The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) • The Convention against Torture (CAT) • The Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) • The International Convention on the forms of Racial all Elimination of Discrimination (CERD) RATIFICATION STATUS OF INDIA • on Convention International the Elimination of All Forms of Racial India (ICERD), Discrimination ratified the Convention on 3 December 1968 with certain reservations 1965 • International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), 1966 • International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), 1966 India acceded to the Convention on 10 April 1979 • Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the Convention on 30 July 1980 and ratified it on 9 July 1993 with certain reservations signed 1979 India • The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) • The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of all Migrant Workers and Members of their Families for International Convention the Protection of all Persons from Enforced Disappearances • The • The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) The full text of these treaties can be found at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
• Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), 1989 • Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), 2006 India ratified the Convention on 1 October 2007 • Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict, 2000 India ratified the Optional Protocol on 30 November 2005 • Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child Pornography, 2000 India ratified the Optional Protocol on 16 August 2005 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 46 ANNEXURE 2 UNITED NATIONS PRINCIPLES FOR OLDER PERSONS Independence 1.
Older persons should have access to adequate food, water, shelter, clothing and health care through the provision of income, family and community support and self-help.

2.

Older persons should have the opportunity to work or to have access to other income- generating opportunities.

3.

Older persons should be able to participate in determining when and at what pace withdrawal from the labour force takes place.

4.

Older persons appropriate programmes.

should have access educational and to training 5.


Older persons should be able to in environments that are safe and adaptable to personal preferences and changing capacities.

live Participation 7.

Older persons should remain integrated in society, participate actively in the formulation and implementation of policies that directly their their well-being and share affect knowledge younger generations.

skills with and 8.
skills with and 8.

Older persons should be able to seek and develop opportunities for service to the community and to serve as volunteers in positions appropriate to their interests and capabilities.

9.

Older persons should be able to form movements or associations of older persons.

10.

Older persons should benefit from family and community care and protection in accordance with each society's system of cultural values.

11.
11.

Older persons should have access to health care to help them to maintain or regain the level of physical, mental and optimum emotional well- being and to prevent or delay the onset of illness.

12.

Older persons should have access to social and legal services to enhance their autonomy, protection and care.

13.

Older persons should be able to utilize appropriate care providing protection, rehabilitation and social and mental stimulation in a humane and secure environment.

institutional levels of 14.


Older persons should be able to enjoy human freedoms when rights and fundamental residing in any shelter, care or treatment facility, including full respect for their dignity, beliefs, needs and privacy and for the right to make decisions about their care and the quality of their lives.

Self-fulfillment 15.

Older persons should be able to pursue opportunities for the full development of their potential.

16.
16.

Older persons should have access to the educational, cultural, spiritual and recreational resources of society.

Dignity 17.

Older persons should be able to live in dignity and security and be free of exploitation and physical or mental abuse.

18.

Older persons should be fairly regardless of age, gender, racial or ethnic background, disability or other status, and be their economic valued contribution.
independently of treated An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 47 ANNEXURE 3 DETAILED LIST OF GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES FOR THE ELDERLY IN INDIA CONSTITUTION OF INDIA: ARTICLE 41.
RIGHT TO WORK  Protect right to work of every citizen, including older persons, but government’s retirement policies do not support this Article and prefer younger generation’s right to work.   Entry 24 in list III of schedule VII deals with the "Welfare of Labour, including conditions of work, provident funds, liability for workmen’s compensation, invalidity and old age pension and maternity benefits.    Further, Article 41 of Directive Principles of State Policy has particular relevance to Old Age Social Security. Item No.
9 of the State List and item 20, 23 and 24 of Concurrent List relates to old age pension, social security and social insurance, and economic and social planning.  MAINTENANCE AND WELFARE OF PARENTS AND SENIOR CITIZENS ACT, 2007  Provision for food, clothing, residence, medical attendance and treatment   Provision for recreation centers and other amenities necessary for the senior citizens.   Due to lack of awareness in the society, no significant progress so far.   The Government of Delhi has notified and set up Maintenance Tribunal and Appellate Tribunals in all Nine Districts of Delhi to exercise the powers and discharge the functions conferred under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007.   Delhi Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (Amendment) Rules, 2010 vide notification dated were notified 05/01/2011.
vide these addendum in Rules duties of Deputy Commissioners were enshrined and vital component of Action plan for the Protection of Life and Property of Senior Citizens were notified. HINDU ADOPTIONS AND MAINTENANCE ACT, 1956 (NO.
78 OF 1956): SECTION 20, MAINTENANCE OF CHILDREN AND AGED PARENTS  Act is applicable legal provisions related to maintenance of aged parents hardly utilized by people. to Hindus, An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 48 MUSLIM LAW  Children have a duty to maintain their aged parents even under the law. CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE ACT, 1973 (NO.
2 OF 1974): SECTION 125, ORDER FOR MAINTENANCE OF WIVES, CHILDREN AND PARENTS  Act primarily protects interests of women and children, aged parents hardly get benefits of the act. PROTECTION OF WOMEN FROM DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ACT, 2005 (NO.
43 OF 2005)  Generally considered for protection of interests of older younger women, women ignored in practice  PRIORITY LISTING OF CASES, RELATED TO SENIOR CITIZENS BY SUPREME COURT OF INDIA & HIGH COURTS  Matters related to senior citizens above the   age of 65 years only. In Delhi priority is being given to cases where Senior Citizens are parties and the cases which are pending for more than 7 years. Though there are legal provisions to look after welfare of older persons in old age, but still there are no laws, that talk specially, about protection of Human Rights of Older Persons.
NATIONAL POLICY ON OLDER PERSONS (NPOP), 1999 in January 1999 The National Policy on Older Persons (NPOP) was announced to reaffirm the commitment to ensure the well-being of the older persons.

The Policy envisages State support to ensure financial and food security, health care, shelter and other needs of older persons, equitable share in development, protection against abuse and exploitation, and availability of services to improve the quality of their lives.
The primary objectives are: • • • • • • to encourage individuals to make provision for their own as well as their spouse’s old age; to encourage families to take care of their older family members; to enable and support voluntary and non- governmental organizations to supplement the care provided by the family; to provide care and protection to the vulnerable elderly people; to provide adequate healthcare facility to the elderly; An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 49 • • to promote research and training facilities to train geriatric care givers and organizers of services for the elderly; to create awareness regarding elderly persons to help them lead productive and independent live.
Implementation The for operationalization of National Policy envisages the following: adopted Strategy • Preparation Action operationalization of the National policy.

Plan of of for • Setting up of separate Bureau for Older Justice & in Ministry of Social Persons Empowerment.

• Setting up of Directorates of Older Persons in the States.

• Three Yearly Public Review of implementation of policy.
• Setting up of a National Council for Older Persons headed by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment from Central Ministry, states, Non-Official members representing NGOs, Academic bodies, Media and experts as members • Establishment of Autonomous National Association of Older Persons • Encouraging the participation of local self- government MAINTENANCE AND WELFARE OF PARENTS AND SENIOR CITIZENS ACT, 2007 The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 was enacted in December 2007 to ensure need based maintenance for parents and senior citizens and their welfare.
The Act provides for:- • Maintenance of Parents/ senior citizens by relatives made obligatory and children/ justifiable through Tribunals • Revocation of transfer of property by senior citizens in case of negligence by relatives • Penal provision for abandonment of senior citizens • Establishment of Old Age Homes for Indigent Senior Citizens • Adequate medical facilities and security for Senior Citizens The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizen Act, 2007 ensures need based maintenance for parents and senior citizens and their welfare.
The Government of Delhi has notified and set up Maintenance Tribunal and Appellate Tribunals in all Nine Districts of Delhi to exercise the powers and discharge the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. functions conferred under the Delhi Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (Amendment) Rules, 2010 was notified vide notification dated 05/01/2011.
Through this addendum in Rules duties of Deputy Commissioners were enshrined and vital component of Action plan for the Protection of Life and Property of Senior Citizens were notified.

Maintenance Tribunals & Appellate Tribunals have been set up at district level.

An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 50 INTEGRATED PROGRAMME FOR OLDER PERSONS (IPOP) The Scheme has been revised w.e.f.

1.4.2008.
1.4.2008.

Besides increase in amount of financial assistance for existing projects, several innovative projects have been added as being eligible for assistance under the Scheme.
Some of these are: • Help-lines and Counseling Centres for older • persons; Sensitizing particularly in Schools and Colleges; programmes for children • Regional Resource and Training Centres of Caregivers to the older persons; • Maintenance of Respite Care Homes and • Awareness Generation Programmes for Older Continuous Care Homes; • Running of Day Care Centres for Alzheimer’s • Disease/Dementia Patients, • Physiotherapy Clinics for older persons; Persons and Care Givers; Formation of Senior Citizens Associations etc.
OLD AGE HOMES & RECREATION CENTRES IN DELHI-NCR There are approximately 60 old age homes in Delhi – NCR.

Majority of the old age homes are run by private organizations or NGOs.

Government of NCT of Delhi has also constructed two old age homes for destitute old age persons in Bindapur, Pocket –IV, Dwarka and Lampur, Narela.

Government of Delhi has also established 83 Recreation Centres to provide facilities for relaxation and avenues for social interaction in Delhi during the year 2011-12.
An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 51 BIBLIOGRAPHY Age UK.

Older People and Human Rights.

n.d. http://www.ageuk.org.uk/Documents/EN-GB/For-professionals/Equality- and-human-rights/Older_People_Human_Rights__Expert_series_pro.pdf?dtrk=true.

Agewell Foundation.

Agewell Foundation Study Reports.

2013. http://www.agewellfoundation.org/Reserarch-studies.htm.

Bureau, National Crime Records.

Crimes against Senior Citizen during 2008-2012. n.d. http://ncrb.co.in.
Chokkanathan, Srinivasan, and Alex E. Y. Lee.

"Elder Mistreatment in Urban India: A Community Based Study."

Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect, 2005.

Dey, Subhojit , Devaki Nambiar, J. K. Lakshmi, Kabir Sheikh, and K. Srinath Reddy.

"Health of the Elderly in India: Challenges of Access and Affordability."

In Aging in Asia: Findings From New and Emerging Data Initiatives, by James P. Smith and Malay Majmundar.

Washington DC: National Academies Press (US), 2012.

Helpage India.

Elder Abuse in India.


2012. http://www.helpageindia.org/pdf/Report_Elder-Abuse_India2012.pdf.

Jain, Madhu, Anamika Sharma, and Ruchi Joshi.

"Effectiveness of Productive Engagement in Work in Using the Coping Strategies of Religious Senior Citizen."

Indian Journal of Gerontology, 2013.

Joshi, K., R. Kumar, and A. Avasthi.

"Morbidity profile and its relationship with disability and psychological distress among elderly people in Northern India."
International Journal of Epidemiology, 2003.

Kapur, Avani. "

Budget Briefs-National Social Assistance Program."

Accountability Initiative, 2013.

National Human Rights Commission, India.

Know Your Rights: Elderly People.

n.d. http://www.nhrc.nic.in/Documents/Publications/KYR%20Elderly%20English%20Final.pdf.

PRS Legislative Research.


Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. n.d. http://www.prsindia.org/billtrack/the-maintenance-and-welfare-of-parents-and-senior-citizens-bill-2007-441/.

Sepúlveda, Magdalena Carmona.

Report of the independent expert on the question of human rights and extreme poverty.

United Nations, Human Rights Council, 2010.

Soneja, Shubha.

"Elder Abuse in India."

Missing Voices, World Health Organization, 2002.


Study finds old age does not affect decision-making quality.

n.d. http://www.dukechronicle.com/articles/2010/06/29/study-finds-old-age-does-not-affect-decision- making-quality.

United Nations.

UN Principles for Older Persons.

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Vincent, John A. Inequality And Old Age.

Taylor & Francis, 2004.


An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 52 REVISED FACTS AND FIGURES ………….. October 2019 Introduction  Population of older persons in India is over 125 million.

Anyone beyond the age of 60 is now expected to live for another 25 to 30 years.

Elderly Population in India is expected to rise to 324 million by 2050.
Schemes / laws launched/amended since 2013      (VPBY), insurance scheme Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana launched in 2003, re-launched in 2014 Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) launched in 2017 The Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PNVVY) was launched in May 2017 In 2015, the Government of India introduced a life Jyoti Yojana), an accident insurance scheme (PM Suraksha Bima Yojana) and a contributory pension sector scheme workers (Atal Pension Yojana) and Social The Ministry Empowerment has drafted the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizen Draft Bill, 2018, that will amend the 2007 version of the legislation to expand its scope and provide for more stringent penalties.
for unorganized Jeevan Justice (PM of  The Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced in Lok Sabha on August Summary Findings Latest findings about status of Human Rights of Older Persons in India (based on survey conducted by Agewell Foundation in 2018 among 5000 sample elderly respondents) are as follows;  85.9% older persons had never heard about Human Rights of Older Persons.

Only 14.1% older persons said that they know or about heard about it.
23% Elderly Living in Inhuman Conditions 77% Yes No Figure 26: Elderly living in inhuman conditions 9, 2018.

The Bill amends the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.

The Act provides for a National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), State Human Rights Commissions (SHRC), as well as Human Rights Courts.

 Over 23.3% older persons were found living in inhuman conditions or (in other words) facing violation of their human rights in old age.

 Every 8th elderly i.e.


12.9% older persons revealed that they are not getting proper food in old age.

An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 53  Approx.

every third older person in the country is not getting proper medicine/health care in old age.

Only 68.8% older persons have access to necessary medicines, health care and medical facilities  Every second older person is not getting due respect or good treatment from his/her family member/society.
48.6% eldelry are not being respected by their family members/ relatives and soceity.

 47.4% older persons were discriminated because of their Age, they accepted that due to their age they were humiliated occasionally or treated disrespectfully.

 Popularity of nuclear/small families was found to be main reason of violation of human rights of older persons as 75.5% of older persons reportedly living in so good conditions were living alone or are from small/nuclear families.
 Voilation of Human Rights of older persons is higher in urban setings in comparision to villages.

65% older persons in living comparison to 57% rural elderly reported that they had to go through critical phase in their life or have to live in abject situations due to violation of their basic human rights in old age.

in urban areas Status of Basic Needs & Rights of Older Persons 3011 Not commented 2205 2541 Yes No 2852 1710 1690 4192 Getting better hygiene?

Getting good treatment?


Getting proper medicine/healthcare?

279 254 458 Getting proper Food?
163 645 Figure 27: Basic needs & rights of older persons Links to latest references relevant to the study-  https://www.agewellfoundation.org/pdf/Human%20Rights%20of%20Older%20People%20in%20India %20-%20A%20Reality%20Check%20-%20July%202014.pdf  https://social.un.org/ageing-working- group/documents/eighth/Inputs%20NGOs/ChangingNeeds_Rights.pdf  https://social.un.org/ageing-working-group/documents/tenth/Social-Security-in-India-2019.pdf An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 54 ANNEXURE 4 SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE – ENGLISH An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 55 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 56 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 57 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 58 SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE – HINDI An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 59 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 60 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 61 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 62 An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 63 An Agewell Initiative Supported by National Human Rights Commission, India An NHRC – Agewell Foundation Study 64