Caring for India's Aging: The Unseen Burden of Palliative Care

India is getting older. By 2050, one out of every five people in the country will be over 60. This shift in population means that the need for geriatric and palliative care is growing. But how much do we really know about this need? Not much, especially when it comes to a national perspective. A recent study used data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study of India (LASI) to shed some light on this unknown territory. The study found that a significant portion of older adults in India require palliative care. This type of care focuses on providing relief from symptoms and stress of a serious illness, rather than curing the disease. It's about making life more comfortable for people who are suffering. But how many older adults need this kind of care? The study's estimation gives us a glimpse into this often-overlooked aspect of healthcare. What makes this study important? It's not just about the numbers. It's about understanding that our aging population has unique needs. These needs aren't always visible or talked about. Palliative care isn't just about the end of life; it's about making life better for those dealing with chronic or serious illnesses. So, what do these findings mean? They highlight the urgent need for better integration of geriatric and palliative care into our healthcare system. They also remind us that our elderly population isn't just a statistic; they're individuals with specific needs that deserve our attention.