Celebrated on October 1 every year, World Elderly Day is dedicated to honouring and appreciating senior citizens. It's a day to recognise their contribution to society and consider how we can better support them as they grow older. As our loved ones age, it's important to ensure they get the right care and support they need. World Elderly Day also serves as a reminder for our elders to focus on their well-being.
Understanding World Elderly Day: A global tribute to senior citizens
The United Nations commemorates World Elderly Day to raise awareness of the issues senior citizens face and celebrate their significant contribution to our society. The day highlights the importance of providing respect, care, and dignity they deserve. Many face declining health, social isolation, and economic hardship as they age. Addressing these concerns can build a society where the elderly are respected and enjoy security and comfort in their golden years.
To help the elderly, especially those living alone, taking good care of their nutrition is essential. Providing regular groceries or hiring a cook can significantly lessen their burden of daily chores and help them focus on taking care of themselves. In addition, making sure they take their medications on time is crucial for maintaining their health and preventing further medical issues. These small but necessary steps can make a significant difference in the lives of senior citizens.
How to choose the right health insurance plan for senior citizens
As our loved ones age, their health issues become more complex, and they need frequent medical attention. Selecting the appropriate senior citizens' health insurance plan ensures they get the necessary medical care without paying a heavy premium. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a health insurance policy for the elderly:
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions: Many older individuals have pre-existing health conditions that may require treatment and medication regularly. Choosing a health insurance plan that covers these conditions without long waiting periods is essential. Some policies may exclude certain pre-existing conditions or charge higher premiums, so check the document carefully before making a decision.
- Comprehensive hospitalisation benefits: Senior citizens may need hospitalisation due to age-related health issues. A good health insurance plan should cover hospitalisation costs, including room rent, ICU costs, surgeries, and other associated expenses. In addition, some plans reimburse daycare treatments that do not require overnight hospitalisation but still incur high medical costs.
- Cashless treatment: Cashless treatment facility is an important feature to look for in health insurance plans for the elderly. With this facility, policyholders can receive treatment at network hospitals without having to pay upfront. The insurer settles the bill directly with the healthcare establishment, reducing the financial burden on the elderly and their families.
- Adequate sum insured: Healthcare costs increase with age, so choosing a policy with a higher sum insured is important for adequate coverage.
- Preventive health screening: Regular health check-ups are essential for early detection and prevention of diseases in the elderly. Many senior citizen health insurance plans offer coverage for preventative health check-ups, ensuring that older people can seek timely diagnosis and treatment without worrying about the associated costs.
- Coverage for domiciliary treatment: As mobility decreases with age, it may not be possible to shift senior citizens to a hospital. Also, doctors may allow senior citizens to undergo treatment at home if they need regular care. Consider a health insurance policy that includes domiciliary treatment, allowing your loved ones to receive care in the comfort of their own home.
Conclusion
Celebrating World Elderly Day is a way to recognise the wisdom, experience, and love that the elderly bring to our lives. It also serves as a reminder to cherish and support them. By selecting the right health insurance plan, we can ensure our loved ones receive the best possible care. A variety of senior citizens' health insurance is available in the market, so ensure that you scour through the options and select the best that suits your elders' needs and your pockets.