Kerala moves to enact comprehensive law for care of senior citizens
Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 15 (IANS) The V.D. Satheesan government is working to bring in comprehensive legislation for the care and protection of senior citizens in the state, as it moves to fast-track the proposed Kerala State Senior Citizens (Care and Protection of Rights) Bill, 2026.
Satheesan on Tuesday reviewed the proposed legislation and directed that the process be expedited, with the government seeking to establish a senior citizen-friendly system in response to Kerala’s rapidly changing demographic profile.
The proposed law seeks to promote healthy and active ageing while enabling senior citizens to continue living in their own homes, families, and social environments for as long as possible.
It also proposes measures to ensure safe and quality care for those who require institutional or specialised support.
The legislation is expected to introduce standards and accountability mechanisms for senior care centres, assisted living facilities, day homes, and home care agencies.
The government also plans to professionalise caregiving through a Kerala Geriatric Care Certification Framework.
Under the proposed framework, caregivers would undergo training, certification and background verification.
A state-level register of trained caregivers is also proposed.
The government expects the move to improve the quality of care while creating a skilled caregiving workforce and new employment opportunities.
The Bill also envisages developing a silver economy, linking the growing needs of the elderly population with economic and employment opportunities.
This would include promoting services and innovations in areas such as elderly care, healthcare, technology, assisted living, home care, and senior-friendly products.
The proposed system will have state- and district-level implementation and monitoring mechanisms, along with grievance redressal arrangements to address complaints and protect the rights of senior citizens.
Special provisions are also proposed for digital and financial security of the elderly and for those requiring specialised care.
Satheesan stressed the need for Kerala to prepare in advance for both the challenges and opportunities arising from its ageing population.
The proposed legislation seeks to create a future-ready system that places dignity, quality care, protection and active ageing at the centre of the state’s senior-citizen policy.
The government sees the proposed law as an important step towards building a more organised and accountable care system as the number of elderly people in Kerala continues to grow.
–IANS
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