As India’s elderly population is set to soar to nearly 20% by 2050, the pressing need for long-term care and support is becoming increasingly evident. National policies advocate for home-based elder care, yet the reality is starkly different. Many older adults still find themselves reliant on hospitals and family members for essential services.

This situation highlights a significant gap between the aspirations of policymakers and the actual care available on the ground. Despite frameworks designed to promote in-home palliative and elder care, access remains disappointingly limited. The National Programme for Palliative Care aims to alleviate suffering for those with chronic conditions by delivering support right where they live, but this vision is far from being realized.

Interestingly, state governments are tasked with planning and funding these necessary services through the National Health Mission. However, many families are finding themselves stepping into the breach, absorbing costs and responsibilities that should ideally be supported by the system. The burden of care often falls on household members, leaving them stretched thin as they juggle their own commitments.

As our investigation reveals, the reality of elder care in India is shaped not just by policy but by the experiences of everyday families. Many are left to piece together support systems on their own, often without adequate resources. The issue underscores a crucial question: when care fails to reach the homes of the elderly, who is ultimately responsible?

This article wraps up our two-part series exploring the complexities of elder care in India. The hidden costs of inadequate policy implementation and the emotional toll on families are significant issues that demand attention. With the elderly population on the rise, it’s more important than ever to bridge the gap between care policies and actual services.