Senior Voices: How Decision-Making and Social Engagement Shape Elderly Lives in India

Sheetal Kundu, Panjab university chandigarh

Using information from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) 2020 and additional sources, this research investigates the autonomy in decision-making and social participation among older adults in India. More than 139 million Indians will be 60 years of age or older by 2024. Based on LASI data, it is found that 42% of elderly women and 55% of elderly men feel they have significant control over health decisions. Gender and socioeconomic status also have a similar impact on financial decision-making. Greater autonomy is felt by older people from urban areas and higher income quintiles. Mobility and health have an impact on social participation; 53% of senior citizens participate in community activities; this percentage is higher in urban areas (60%) than in rural ones (45%). Social activity is higher in those without mobility problems and with strong family networks. The results draw attention to differences in social participation and decision-making processes according to region, gender, and socioeconomic status. The policy recommendations aim to provide better healthcare, transport, and community programs that encourage inclusive participation and autonomy for women, the elderly living in rural areas, and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Keywords: Older Adults and Intergenerational Relations, Families, Unions and Households, Population Ageing, Gender Dynamics

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