Social security for old people: Experts seek updating of existing national policy for the elderly
Highlights
- Elderly population in Bangladesh has risen to 9.47% in 2023 and is projected to reach 12% by 2031
- Experts urge elderly-focused policymaking with emphasis on health, economic, and social support systems
- Current old-age allowance of Tk650 per month is insufficient and needs significant increase
- Health ministry to introduce senior units in hospitals starting with Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital in Dhaka
The number of elderly people in Bangladesh is rising rapidly, bringing looming challenges. Experts believe that if good health and social security for the elderly can be ensured, they will be able to contribute to the economy and help ease these challenges.
They recommended placing older people at the centre of policymaking and emphasising geriatric care in hospitals to make healthcare more accessible for them.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
According to the latest Sample Vital Statistics 2023 by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, 9.47% of the total population is currently aged 60 or above, up from 8.21% in 2019. By 2031, this figure will rise to 12%.
Mohammad Mainul Islam, professor of population sciences at Dhaka University, told The Business Standard that Bangladesh's preparations are lagging far behind the pace of ageing. "Nothing in our country is elderly-friendly. From roads and transport to recreational facilities, there are no special arrangements. If older people remain healthy and engaged in work, they can contribute to the labour market and keep the economy moving. Initiatives must be taken in three areas – health, economic, and social."
He added that with the elderly population growing rapidly, greater state attention and policy focus are urgently needed. "We are moving fast towards becoming an ageing society. Older people must be placed at the centre of all planning. A needs assessment is essential.
"The existing national policy for the elderly must be updated and implemented. Social security support must be increased. Currently, the old-age allowance is only Tk650 per month, which is nowhere near enough for survival."
Mainul Islam stressed the need for social security, elderly-friendly industries, and technological adaptation for seniors. "If we treat them as human capital, they will become an asset. Many continue working in the informal sector due to age. Without proper food, healthcare, and training, a major crisis may arise. Elderly-friendly environments must also be created in transport, roads, and recreational facilities."
Dr Kazi Maruful Islam, professor of development studies at Dhaka University, told The Business Standard that with life expectancy rising, opportunities for longer working lives after retirement should be created. "Part-time jobs could harness the experience of the elderly. Separate health insurance schemes or subsidy vouchers linked to national IDs can also be introduced."
He also noted that there is virtually no government investment in old-age homes, an area where both the state and private sector need to step up.
Health ministry to launch "senior unit" in hospitals
According to ministry sources, specialised units for elderly care will be established in government hospitals nationwide. The first such "senior unit" will be launched at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital in Dhaka.
These units will have dedicated doctors, nurses, health workers, separate ticket counters, and specially designed toilets. After Dhaka, the service will gradually expand across the country.
Professor Dr Sayedur Rahman, special assistant at the Ministry of Health, told TBS, "Our new healthcare plan includes specific focus on the elderly, women, and persons with disabilities. They will be given priority in queues, and major public hospitals will provide separate services for the elderly and women."
Today marks the International Day of Older Persons, with this year's theme: "Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being, and Our Rights."
