A Global Analysis of Elderly Well-Being: Comparative Policies on Social Inclusion, Healthcare Access, and Economic Security

Abstract

Population aging is a defining global trend of the 21st century, raising critical questions about the well-being of older adults. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of elderly well-being across three key dimensions – social inclusion, healthcare access, and economic security – with a comparative focus on India and Japan. Drawing on international research and policy reports, we first synthesize literature on how social inclusion (community participation, respect, and rights), healthcare access (universal health coverage, long-term care systems), and economic security (pensions and income support) contribute to the quality of life in older age. We then critically examine how India, a lower-middle-income country with an emerging ageing population, and Japan, a high-income “super-aged” society, address these challenges. India’s policies reflect a society in transition: traditional family support structures are weakening, formal social protection nets are nascent, and healthcare systems are striving to extend coverage to a growing elderly cohort. Japan, in contrast, has implemented extensive formal systems – from universal healthcare and long-term care insurance to nearly universal pension coverage – yet faces issues of sustainability and social isolation among its seniors. Our analysis highlights both best practices and gaps: community-based inclusion programs and integrated care in Japan yield lessons for India, while India’s demographic dividend offers foresight into Japan’s past trajectory. The paper concludes with an emphasis on strengthening social inclusion, ensuring age-friendly healthcare, and securing economic safety nets as imperative policy goals worldwide in an ageing era. The discussion is supported by reputable sources including the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations (UN), International Labour Organization (ILO), and academic studies. The findings underscore that despite different stages of development, both India and Japan must continually adapt their policies to uphold the dignity, health, and economic well-being of older citizens in an ageing world.