Conclusion
The survey on the "Rights of Senior Citizens in Goa (2024-25)" has
provided valuable insights into the real-life challenges faced by
elderly individuals in the state. The survey was conducted across
various locations in Goa and included diverse respondents from
different economic and social backgrounds. The findings indicate
that while there are several legal provisions and welfare schemes
aimed at protecting senior citizens, significant gaps remain in
awareness, accessibility, and implementation.
One of the key observations from the survey was the lack of
awareness among senior citizens regarding their legal rights
under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens
Act, 2007. A considerable number of respondents were unaware
of the financial and legal provisions available to them, which in
turn limited their ability to seek assistance when needed. Despite
efforts by the government to disseminate information about
senior citizen rights, many elderly individuals reported difficulties
in accessing this information.
The survey also highlighted major concerns regarding financial
security. A significant percentage of elderly respondents were
dependent on their families for financial support, while others
struggled due to inadequate pensions or lack of stable income
sources. Some senior citizens expressed grievances regarding
delays in pension disbursements and challenges in availing
government financial aid programs.
Healthcare accessibility was another major issue that emerged
from the survey findings. Many senior citizens faced difficulties in
obtaining medical care due to financial constraints, lack of
transportation, and insufficient geriatric healthcare facilities in
their vicinity. The elderly living in semi-urban and rural areas
struggled the most in terms of reaching healthcare centers, with
some even foregoing medical treatment due to high costs. While
government health schemes exist for the elderly, a significant
number of respondents were either unaware of these benefits or
found the application process too complex.
Social isolation was another prevalent issue among the surveyed
senior citizens. The decline of the traditional joint family system
has led to increased loneliness among the elderly, with many
respondents reporting emotional neglect. A considerable number
of elderly individuals lived alone or with minimal family
interaction, leading to feelings of abandonment. The absence of
community-based programs and recreational activities further
contributed to their isolation.
Based on these findings, it is evident that while there are existing
frameworks and policies for the welfare of senior citizens, their
implementation needs to be significantly improved. There is an
urgent need for better awareness campaigns, financial and
healthcare accessibility improvements, strengthened legal
enforcement against elder abuse, and the development of
community-based initiatives to support senior citizens. Addressing
these challenges requires a collaborative effort from the
government, civil society organizations, and the community at
large to create a more inclusive and dignified environment for the
elderly population in Goa.
Suggestions
Senior citizens play a vital role in society, yet they often face
challenges related to financial security, healthcare access, social
inclusion, and legal protection. Goa, with its unique demographic
composition, requires tailored measures to ensure the well-being
and dignity of its elderly population. The following suggestions
aim to enhance the quality of life for senior citizens by addressing
key areas of concern and fostering a more inclusive and
supportive environment.
Enhancing Awareness and Legal Education
1. Organize legal literacy camps in rural and urban areas of Goa,
with special emphasis on informing senior citizens about their
rights under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior
Citizens Act, 2007.
2. Collaborate with local legal aid cells, NGOs, and law colleges to
conduct free legal consultation camps at community centers and
senior citizen clubs.
3. Develop multilingual awareness campaigns in Konkani, Marathi,
and English through radio, newspapers, and television to reach a
wider audience.
4. Implement educational programs in schools and colleges to
sensitize younger generations about the importance of respecting
and caring for the elderly.
Improving Accessibility to Government Schemes
1. Set up dedicated senior citizen help desks in all municipal and
panchayat offices across Goa to provide assistance with pension
applications, healthcare benefits, and legal aid.
2. Conduct periodic outreach programs in rural areas to educate
elderly individuals on the application process for government
schemes and provide on-the-spot assistance.
3. Simplify documentation requirements for senior citizen
benefits, ensuring that forms are available in multiple languages
and are easy to understand.
4. Establish mobile service units that visit remote villages,
assisting senior citizens with accessing healthcare, pensions, and
other social welfare benefits.
5. Develop a centralized helpline and digital grievance redressal
system where senior citizens can report issues related to
government schemes and receive prompt solutions.
Strengthening Financial Security
1. Introduce state-funded pension enhancement programs for
economically weaker elderly individuals in Goa.
2. Promote awareness of financial planning and security
measures, including reverse mortgage schemes, investment
options, and protection against fraud.
3. Encourage corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to
fund senior citizen welfare programs, particularly in areas such as
healthcare, housing, and livelihood support.
4. Set up financial literacy workshops in collaboration with banks
and financial institutions to educate senior citizens about safe
banking practices and fraud prevention.
5. Introduce employment opportunities for elderly individuals
through part-time or flexible work arrangements in government
and private sectors.
Expanding Healthcare Facilities
1. Establish more geriatric healthcare centers in both urban and
rural areas of Goa, ensuring affordable and accessible medical
services for senior citizens.
2. Provide subsidized or free medical care for chronic illnesses
such as diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and cardiovascular
diseases.
3. Strengthen home-based healthcare services by training
caregivers and medical professionals to assist elderly individuals
who have mobility issues.
4. Introduce telemedicine services in collaboration with hospitals
and primary healthcare centers to facilitate remote consultations
for senior citizens.
5. Increase the number of physiotherapy and rehabilitation
centers tailored to the needs of aging individuals, ensuring
accessibility in both North and South Goa.
Preventing Elder Abuse and Ensuring Legal Protection
1. Strengthen monitoring mechanisms for elder care facilities,
ensuring strict compliance with safety and care regulations.
2. Launch a state-run dedicated helpline specifically for reporting
elder abuse, ensuring immediate response and intervention.
3. Implement community-based reporting systems where local
leaders, NGOs, and law enforcement agencies work together to
identify and address cases of elder exploitation or neglect.
4. Organize awareness campaigns about elder abuse, informing
communities on how to identify and report mistreatment.
5. Ensure that police stations and legal aid centers have trained
personnel who specialize in handling cases of elder abuse and
legal disputes involving senior citizens.
Promoting Community Involvement and Social Inclusion
1. Develop senior citizen clubs and community centers in every
taluka of Goa, providing spaces for recreational, educational, and
wellness activities.
2. Encourage local municipalities to organize intergenerational
programs where students and young professionals engage with
elderly individuals through mentorship and social initiatives.
3. Introduce senior-friendly recreational activities, such as yoga
camps, storytelling sessions, and cultural events, to promote an
active and engaged lifestyle.
4. Collaborate with local tourism and hospitality industries to offer
subsidized travel and leisure opportunities for senior citizens,
allowing them to explore and socialize.
5. Support initiatives that involve senior citizens in community
service projects, utilizing their knowledge and experience to
contribute meaningfully to society.
I've expanded your suggestions with more specific measures
tailored for Goa. Let me know if you'd like any refinements or
additional areas covered.
