RIGHT TO GERIATRIC CARE : MILES TO GO

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The aged had a unique position in our society. They were regarded as the symbols of divinity and given utmost respect in families as they are depositories of wisdom, carriers of tradition and transmitters of experience and knowledge. They have an advisory role and can help in guiding the youth with regard to social, economic, political and religious matters .Now the status of the aged diminished in society. The human rights of older persons have been largely neglected in the international human rights frame work until recent times. Older persons, however, face numerous human rights challenges in the form of discrimination, violence, poverty and marginalization.

In India, the health care needs of the aged should be taken with more importance because of the increasing number of the aged. The health care problems of the elderly can better be solved by giving adequate legal protection to the right to Geriatric care. Legislative initiative is essential for the enforceability of the right to Geriatric care. Efforts have been made at national level to help the aged people to lead a comfortable, descent and respectful life. In India, it can be found that there is no specific legislation exclusively dealing with or protecting right to Geriatric care, even though certain enactments are protecting the rights of elderly .It is to be noted that the enactment of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 has recognized the right to Geriatric care.

The seminal aim of this paper is to help the layman understand, analyse and introspect into the practical and legislative aspects in regard to geriatric care.