Pattern and Extent of Utilization of Social Welfare Schemes by the Elderly in Northern India: An Observational Study

Background: With the increase in the elderly population in India, state and central government have initiated many schemes for the welfare of the elderly. The current study ascertained the pattern and extent of utilization of social welfare services by the elderly in the rural area of Punjab, a north Indian state. Results: Out of 400 participants, most (72%) of the respondents were females. About 99.5% had an awareness about and 91% were utilizing at least one social welfare scheme. A statistically significant difference was found between the utilization of schemes for availing healthcare services and medicines (p=0.001) and fulfilling basic needs (p=0.01) among rural and urban participants. A significant difference was seen in the number of schemes utilized with economic dependence, source of income, and social class (p<0.05). Lack of knowledge for a scheme was the most common reason for the non-utilization of schemes. Conclusion: The study concluded that the utilization of social welfare schemes can be increased by making them elderly-friendly.