Career paths in elderly care

RANJAN K BARUAH

EDUCARE

We have seen people growing from childhood to adulthood and then there is a time when we grow old and become elderly.  We should know that by 2050, it is estimated that 1 in every 6 people will be aged 65 or over, increasing the vulnerability experienced by older persons to violence. Around 1 in 6 people 60 years and older experienced some form of abuse in community settings during the past year. When the numbers will increase then there would certainly be elder abuse which may lead to serious physical injuries and long-term psychological consequences. Elder abuse is predicted to increase as many countries are experiencing rapidly ageing populations.

Between 2019 and 2030, the number of persons aged 60 years or over is projected to grow by 38%, from 1 billion to 1.4 billion, globally outnumbering youth, and this increase will be the greatest and the most rapid in the developing world, and recognizing that greater attention needs to be paid to the specific challenges affecting older persons, including in the field of human rights.

Elder abuse is a problem that exists in both developing and developed countries yet is typically less reported globally. Prevalence rates or estimates exist only in selected developed countries — ranging from 1% to 10%. It is a concern around the world. A World Health Organization (WHO)-supported study revealed that nearly 64% of institutional staff admitted to abusive behavior in the previous year, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change.

This year’s World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) which is observed on 15th June will focus on the abuse of older adults in long term care facilities through data and action.. Whereas older people live in the community, institutional care is a reality for many. As the need for institutional care grows with global aging, so do concerns about safeguarding the rights, safety, and dignity of residents is of utmost importance.

Working with elderly persons shall be rewarding, thrilling and most importantly satisfactory. It gives us opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the lives of older adults. These roles include direct care giving, nursing, social work, and specialized fields like geriatric nutrition. We could see more elderly homes around us which means it needs trained and skilled people to get engaged. There are many other opportunities in the field of elderly care.

Exam Update:

CDS Exam: A Combined Defence Services Examination will be conducted by the Union Public Service Commission on September 14th , 2025 for admission to the courses in Indian Military Academy , Dehradun ; Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala; Air Force Academy, Hyderabad; Officers Training Academy, Chennai; Officers Training Academy, Chennai 22nd   SSC Women (Non Technical)  . Aspirants may apply before 17th June.

NDA & NA Exam: An Examination will be conducted by the Union Public Service Commission on 14th September, 2025 for admission to the Army, Navy and Air Force wings of the NDA for the 145th Course, and for the 106th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC) commencing from 2025. Aspirants may apply on or before 17th June.

(Ranjan K Baruah is a career mentor and skill trainer and currently Adviser of Skill Employment and Entrepreneurship Department of Bodoland Territorial Council, Kokrajhar and can be reached at 8473943734 or bkranjan@gmail.com)