Flourishing in the Second Innings: The Comprehensive Meaning of Active Ageing in India

The United Nations recently declared 2021-2030 as the Decade of Healthy Ageing. And active ageing has become an increasingly important concept in India as the country experiences significant demographic shifts. With a rapidly growing population of older adults, it is essential to understand the comprehensive meaning of active ageing and how it can positively impact individuals, families, and society as a whole. In this blog, we will explore the multifaceted aspects of active ageing in India and highlight the significance of embracing the golden years with vitality and purpose.

Physical Well-being:

Maintaining good physical health is a fundamental aspect of active ageing in India. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and access to quality healthcare are key components. The various factors that should be considered by older adults for physically active retirement days are:

• Regular Exercise:

Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for the physical well-being of senior citizens. Activities such as walking, swimming, or low-impact exercises can help improve cardiovascular health, maintain muscle strength, and enhance flexibility.

• Balanced Nutrition:

Following a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is essential for seniors’ physical well-being. Adequate nutrition supports overall health, boosts immunity, and helps prevent chronic diseases.

• Fall Prevention:

Taking measures to prevent falls is vital for seniors’ physical well-being. This includes ensuring a safe living environment, removing hazards, using assistive devices if necessary, and practicing exercises to improve balance and stability.

• Regular Health Check-ups:

Senior citizens should prioritize regular health check-ups to monitor their overall health, manage chronic conditions, and detect any potential health issues early on. This may include screenings for common age-related diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, Parkinson’s, Dementia and heart ailments.

• Adequate Sleep:

Getting sufficient sleep is important for seniors’ physical well-being. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule and create a comfortable sleep environment to promote restful and rejuvenating sleep. Good sleep supports immune function, memory consolidation, and overall vitality.

Mental Stimulation:

Mental stimulation is a crucial element of active ageing, as it promotes cognitive vitality and overall mental well-being. Some of the activities that must be considered by all senior citizens for overall mental well-being and enhancing quality of life are:

• Lifelong Learning:

Engaging in continuous learning activities can provide mental stimulation for senior citizens. This may include spending considerable time in a library, attending workshops, or exploring new hobbies and interests.

• Social Interaction:

Maintaining social connections and participating in social activities is crucial for the mental well-being of senior citizens. Joining community groups, senior centers, or participating in group activities can foster social interaction and provide opportunities for engaging conversations and shared experiences.

• Cognitive Exercises:

Performing cognitive exercises and brain-training activities can help keep the mind sharp and active. This may involve puzzles, crosswords, Sudoku, memory games, or online brain-training apps that challenge cognitive skills and promote mental agility.

• Cultural Engagement:

India’s rich cultural heritage offers numerous avenues for mental stimulation. Senior citizens can explore cultural activities such as music, dance, art, literature, or theater, either as participants or as enthusiastic audience members.

• Technology and Digital Engagement:

Embracing technology can open up new opportunities for mental stimulation. Senior citizens can learn to use smartphones, computers, or tablets to access online courses, virtual communities, social media platforms, and video calling to stay connected with loved ones and engage with a wider range of information and activities.

Social Engagement:

Social engagement plays a significant role in active ageing, particularly in the Indian context, where family and community ties hold immense value. Inclusive environments can be created that value the contributions and well-being of senior citizens, fostering a sense of community and connection. Senior citizens may engage themselves in:

• Community Involvement:

Active social engagement involves participating in community activities and initiatives. Senior citizens can volunteer their time and skills for local organizations, contribute to community development projects, or engage in social service activities, fostering a sense of purpose and connection.

• Senior Citizen Associations:

Joining senior citizen associations or clubs provides opportunities for social interaction and engagement with peers. These associations often organize events, recreational activities, and outings, creating a supportive environment for senior citizens to connect, share experiences, and form friendships.

• Intergenerational Connections:

Encouraging intergenerational connections can enhance social engagement for senior citizens. Interaction with younger generations through family gatherings, mentoring programs, or community events can promote mutual understanding, knowledge sharing, and a sense of belonging.

• Celebrating Festivals and Cultural Events:

Participating in festivals, cultural events, and religious or spiritual gatherings offers opportunities for social interaction and community engagement. Senior citizens can actively participate in organizing or attending celebrations, connecting with their cultural roots and fostering a sense of belonging.

• Support Networks and Helplines:

Establishing support networks and helplines specifically for senior citizens can address social isolation and provide assistance when needed. These networks can offer companionship, emotional support, and guidance on various aspects of senior living, ensuring that senior citizens have access to resources and assistance whenever required.

Financial Well-being:

Ensuring financial security is a critical aspect of active ageing in India. To ensure security, independence, and quality of life older adults should have various accessible financial services tailored to their specific needs such as:

• Access to Pensions and Retirement Savings:

Ensuring that senior citizens have access to pensions, retirement savings, and social security benefits is crucial for their financial well-being. Government schemes like the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), National Pension Scheme (NPS), and various state-specific pension programs aim to provide financial support to retirees.

• Healthcare Expenses:

Addressing healthcare expenses is essential for the financial well-being of senior citizens. Affordable healthcare services, access to quality medical facilities, and health insurance options specifically designed for older adults can help mitigate the financial burden of healthcare costs.

• Government Initiatives:

Government initiatives like the Atal Pension Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana, and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana provide financial support and security to senior citizens. These initiatives offer pension plans, guaranteed return schemes, and investment opportunities tailored for older adults.

• Entrepreneurship and Re-skilling Programs:

Encouraging senior citizens to participate in entrepreneurship initiatives or re-skilling programs can enhance their financial independence and well-being. These programs equip older adults with skills and resources to start small businesses, explore new career opportunities, or utilize their expertise to generate income.

Independence and Empowerment:

The independence and empowerment of senior citizens in India are important aspects that contribute to their overall well-being and quality of life. Here are some key points that can help senior citizens to lead an independent and empowered life post-retirement:

• Age-Friendly Infrastructure:

Moving to an age-friendly infrastructure is essential to enhance the mobility and accessibility of senior citizens. Jagriti Dham, a premium senior living facility in Kolkata has been developed keeping in mind to create a barrier-free environment, such as constructing ramps, installing handrails, and ensuring anti-skid floors.

• Active Participation:

Encouraging senior citizens to actively participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives and communities. Involving them in policy discussions, community development projects, and initiatives that shape their environment.

Conclusion:

Active ageing in India encompasses a comprehensive approach to embracing the golden years with vitality, purpose, and dignity. By prioritizing physical well-being, mental stimulation, social engagement, and financial security, older adults can lead fulfilling lives and continue making valuable contributions to their families and communities. It is essential for policymakers, healthcare providers, and society as a whole to recognize the diverse needs and aspirations of older adults and create an enabling environment that promotes active ageing. Embracing the comprehensive meaning of active ageing in India not only benefits individuals but also ensures a more inclusive, vibrant, and resilient society for all generations to come. Let us celebrate the wisdom and experience of older adults and unlock their immense potential as active contributors to India’s progress and well-being.