A policy review of Government of India initiatives for the rehabilitation and welfare of the geriatric population

Abstract

India is undergoing a rapid demographic transition, with a steadily growing geriatric population that is increasing the burden of chronic diseases, disability, and functional dependence. In response to these emerging challenges, the Government of India has introduced several schemes focused on health care, rehabilitation, social security, and financial protection for older adults. This policy review critically evaluates major national initiatives in geriatric rehabilitation, including the National Program for Health Care of the Elderly, Ayushman Bharat, Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana, the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme, and selected digital health interventions. A narrative policy analysis of official guidelines, policy documents, and relevant secondary literature was conducted to examine the objectives, scope, rehabilitation components, and implementation mechanisms of these schemes. This review highlights notable progress in institutional geriatric care, provision of assistive devices, and financial risk protection for the elderly population. Nevertheless, significant gaps persist in community-based rehabilitation services, workforce capacity, rural accessibility, and intersectoral coordination, with considerable disparities across states. Furthermore, the limited integration of rehabilitation services into primary health care continues to hinder the overall effectiveness. Strengthening policy convergence, expanding geriatric rehabilitation infrastructure and services, and harnessing digital health innovations are crucial to ensuring equitable access and improving healthcare outcomes for India’s aging population.