Introduction: Pensions and Social Protection for the Elderly
摘要
Population ageing has become the pertinent issue of discussion at global level as there is a demographic shift in this century. The phenomenon of ageing is related to dependency and health care which is linked with finance. The importance of pensions and social security on a global scale includes the financial security which provides a stable income source for older adults by reducing poverty and helping them to meet basic needs. Extending health insurance and social security to retirees, older adults who worked in the informal sector, and elderly women would ensure the necessary services without financial burden. The design and the implementation of pension systems and health insurance systems are rooted in wider economic, social, and political environments. With ageing populations, increased health care expenditures necessitate the integrated social protection systems. Universal Health Insurance schemes have been introduced in many countries to reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for the elderly. Global trends in pension systems show a move toward multipillar systems, greater private savings, and greater protection for informal workers. In the face of an ageing population, innovative policy strategies and sustainable funding are a prerequisite for a dignified and secured old age for future generations. In this part, there are 18 chapters from various nations analyzing the varied aspects including the issues, policies, models, perspectives, absence of social security system, and the state of pensions and social security systems through various data, and cases. All the chapters in this part are grouped into three broad categories, viz, (i) challenges to pension systems and social protection for older adults, (ii) country-specific approaches and policy innovations in social security, and (iii) the emerging models of social protection. Altogether, based on the findings, the chapters suggest that the universal coverage of social protection with enormous quantum of investment will protect the life of the elderly. The all-inclusive policy for the protection of elderly must include women older adults and those working in or retired from informal sector. The goal of the social protection policy must be based on the welfare state.