The programme launched in 2010, the National Programme for Health Care for the Elderly came into being to look after the health of those whose medical care is often neglected. As a culture, we often tend to look after our elderly, and this scheme is a reflection of just that culture.

The National Programme for the Health Care for the Elderly basically is a preventive, promotional, curative, and rehabilitative center for medical care of elderly citizens.

Objectives of the National Programme for the Health Care for the Elderly

  1. Providing accessible and long term care services which never compromise on quality to the aging population of the nation
  2. Creating infrastructure for the aging population and to work towards a framework which enables an inclusive environment for all age groups.
  3. Promotion of the concept of active and healthy aging among the masses

Funding for the scheme

Like all nationwide schemes, the funding for the National Programme for the Health Care for the Elderly was also a large amount. A total of Rs 288 Cr was kept aside for the implementation of the action plan. This amount included a 20% share of the total funding by the State government.

In conclusion

The elderly constitute a major part of our population and sidelining them from the demographics would be a ruthless thing to do. The government initiative in this regard is really commendable.

Through this scheme, various districts across the nation are to be linked to Regional Geriatric Centres for providing tertiary level care to the elderly, all across the nation from various walks of life.