Although all the above require skill and years of training, it is not the same with caregivers. Caregivers offer non medical support of companionship, feeding, bathing and ensuring medication at the proper time; all from the comfort of the patient’s own home or ward in a hospital. The sheer flexibility and sense of personal care that a caregiver brings to the table is unparalleled. The need for caregivers in India is increasing rapidly due to various factors such as an aging population, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, and changing family structures.
1. Aging population: According to the United Nations, India's population is projected to be the world's largest by 2027. The elderly population (aged 60 and above) is expected to reach 340 million by 2050, which is more than double the current number of 150 million.
2. Rise in chronic diseases: Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer are on the rise in India. The number of people living with diabetes is expected to reach 134 million by 2025, and the number of cancer cases is expected to double by 2040.
3. Changing family structures: With the rise of nuclear families and migration to urban areas, there is a decline in the traditional family support system. The responsibility of caregiving is shifting from family members to professional caregivers.
4. Gender imbalance: According to the National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO), women constitute 70% of the total caregiver population in India. This is because women are traditionally expected to take care of family members who are ill or elderly.
5. Lack of skilled caregivers: There is a shortage of skilled and trained caregivers in India. According to the National Health Profile 2019, there are only 1.7 hospital beds per 1,000 people, and there is a shortage of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
6. Impact on mental health: Caregiving can also have a significant impact on the mental health of caregivers. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, caregivers experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
In conclusion, the need for caregivers in India is increasing rapidly due to the aging population, rise in chronic diseases, changing family structures, gender imbalance, lack of skilled caregivers, economic burden, and impact on mental health. To meet this growing demand, we at Jeevan Healthcare invest our time and money in training and educating caregivers, improving access to healthcare services, and providing financial and emotional support to caregivers from all over India, bringing our brothers and sisters one step closer to Health.