Legal Framework for Assisted Living in Elderly: Scope of Ambient Assisted Living in India

Abstract

Human rights are universal, regardless of age, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable due to their biological, psychological, and social aging. This vulnerability isolates them from the rest of the population, requiring special protection and rights. Despite legislation and policies designed to meet their needs, more needs to be done to curb the growth of the law’s reach. This study aims to bring about positive legislative changes in the development and regulation of aged care. Demographic changes due to increased life expectancy have led to an aging population and increased demand for care. Traditional family and social support have decreased due to declining birth rates, small nuclear families, urbanization, and children moving to other cities and countries. This has led to the growth of nursing homes for the elderly worldwide, including in India. There is no specific regulatory framework or registration authority for assisted living in India, and more security measures are needed to prevent elder abuse and deprivation of rights. Quality control mechanisms are also necessary to meet care needs in long-term care.