Chennai: According to a survey 12% seniors in India live alone or with their spouse. They need to be given targeted protection, so that they do not become victim to anti-social elements, Tamilnadu Governor, Banwarilal Purohit said.

He was speaking at a seminar ‘Status of Senior Citizens of Tamilnadu’ organised by the Federation of Senior Citizens Associations of Tamilnadu on Sunday.

Explaining about health status of senior citizens, he said, “Health status is measured by three indicators – life expectancy at 60, access to quality healthcare and psychological well-being. These are often not available in full measure to all categories of older persons and need to be given careful attention.”

He went on to speak about how Japan, a hyper-ageing country, is moving forward in taking care of senior citizens and how they converted ageing population into an instrument of progress.

“For this, almost 50 years ago, Japan adopted a comprehensive welfare policy, introduced universal healthcare, a universal social pension and a plan for income redistribution, low unemployment and progressive taxation. This investment has paid off with a healthier labour force and increased longevity. As a result, Japan is not just the oldest, but also one of the healthiest and wealthiest countries of the world,” he said.

All India Senior Citizens’ Confederation (AISCCON) president D N Chapke, A M Swaminathan, Federation of Senior Citizens Associations of Tamil Nadu (FOSCATAN) president, D Rajasekaran and vice-president R T Namasivayam were present.