I am sure no one in the world would like to see their mothers being abandoned, destitute and helpless because of circumstances or otherwise, but unfortunately the other side of the coin has a different story to tell.

There are millions of elderly women who are still facing the brunt of societal discrimination and economic deprivation, it is those mother’s who need our maximum support.

The attached document “Innovative practices for Care of Elderly Women in India” which was prepared with support from United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Stree Shakti – The Parallel Force is a good read.

The aim behind the initiative was to promote the rights of ageing women and showcase effective models that are dedicated to restoring their dignity.

Though the report is slightly dated, however a lot of water has flown under the bridge since then, but that does not mean that the undercurrent is not flowing.

Women who are single, abandoned (‘half widows’) or widowed face multiple barriers due to illiteracy, malnutrition, abuse, isolation, ill health, lack of housing and exclusion from economic benefits are the ones who are always facing the blazing Sun. 

While the elderly face a number of challenges, the situation is worse for elderly women. 

Many women face bias and discrimination throughout their lives and most of the time they either succumb to it or do not raise their voices against it. 

The Global Report on Ageing in the 21st Century reinforces the observations made in India that older persons, particularly older women, experience multiple discriminations, including access to jobs and health care, abuse, denial of the right to own and inherit property, and lack of basic minimum income and social security.

While on one hand we are celebrating the growth story of India, in my opinion we should also ensure that the marginalized, underprivileged and those stuck with bad luck or circumstances should also be respected and included in the landscape of the country with due dignity and care. 

Since the Government cannot do everything on their own, hence concerned citizens, Civil Society and Corporate Houses under their CSR need to look at Elderly Care with the binoculars of Empathy, Respect, Responsibility and Concern.

The document can be accessed on UNFPA website or here.

Pankaj Mehrotra