India's rapidly ageing population faces a significant healthcare gap due to the neglect of geriatric conditions like frailty in public health policy. Examine the challenges in addressing age-related health vulnerabilities in India and suggest measures to build a comprehensive geriatric healthcare framework.

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Introduction

India’s demographic transition is leading to a rapid rise in the elderly population, yet public health systems remain oriented toward maternal, child, and infectious diseases, leaving geriatric conditions like frailty under-addressed.

Challenges in Addressing Geriatric Vulnerabilities

High burden of chronic diseases, multimorbidity, and frailty with inadequate early screening and diagnosis
Limited geriatric care infrastructure, including shortage of trained specialists and dedicated wards
Out-of-pocket expenditure remains high, with insufficient insurance coverage for long-term and palliative care
Weak primary healthcare integration, with geriatric needs not embedded in routine services
Social factors such as isolation, neglect, and feminisation of ageing increasing vulnerability
Urban-rural disparities in access to healthcare and assistive services

Measures for a Comprehensive Framework

Strengthen primary healthcare by integrating geriatric screening, frailty assessment, and continuity of care under Ayushman Bharat
Expand geriatric departments in district hospitals and promote specialised training for healthcare workers
Develop long-term care systems including home-based care, community support, and palliative services
Enhance financial protection through expanded insurance coverage for chronic and elderly care
Leverage digital health and telemedicine for remote monitoring and consultation
Promote preventive health through awareness on nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being
Encourage convergence with social welfare schemes to address non-medical determinants

Conclusion

Addressing geriatric health requires a shift from episodic care to a life-cycle approach. A robust, integrated framework can ensure healthy ageing and reduce the socio-economic burden of an ageing population.

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