Youth value elders, but digital divide, communication gaps persist: HelpAge India report
While young Indians hold elders in high regard, a new national study by HelpAge India reveals a complex picture of intergenerational relationships, marked by both strong family bonds and widening communication gaps.
The report, 'Understanding Intergenerational Dynamics & Perceptions on Ageing,' was released on Friday in Bengaluru by HelpAge India. As many as 5,798 respondents across 10 Indian cities, comprising 70% youth and 30% elders from urban households were surveyed, and the report sheds light on how ageing is perceived and experienced in modern India.
The findings reveal that although youth describe elders as 'wise' (51%) and 'respected' (43%), a majority also associate them with 'loneliness' (56%) and 'dependence' (48%). In turn, over half of elders (54%) admit to negative feelings about ageing, often due to emotional neglect or a perceived loss of autonomy.
The report stated that the youth also acknowledged the influence of media in shaping their perceptions, with 80% stating that portrayals of the elderly as wise, dependent, or even comical play a major role. Interestingly, young people living in close proximity to elders displayed higher levels of stereotype bias.
Digital use low among elders
According to the report, 66% of elders and 61% of youth interact daily primarily at home, emphasising the continuing strength of traditional family structures. However, digital engagement remains limited: only 41% of elders own smartphones, and just 13% use computers or the internet. The youth often view elders as 'disinterested' in learning technology, while elders blame the lack of patient instruction and rapid explanations, stated in the report.
The report also found that 86% of elders rely primarily on family for support, and encouragingly, 75% of youth are willing to volunteer for elder care services like companionship or tech help.
Loneliness, poor health, and financial insecurity emerged as top fears about ageing for both youth and elders. Despite changing social dynamics, 88% of youth still wish to live with family in old age, reflecting continued faith in multi-generational living.
'Don't transfer assets early, stay alert online'
At the launch of the report, C. Balaram, Deputy Secretary to the government, Department of Women and Child Development and Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens, said, 'Spending time with parents and grandparents is not just a responsibility but an opportunity to build deeper relationships. Intergenerational bonding can help bridge the emotional divide that many elders experience.'
He also offered a word of caution to senior citizens to not transfer your assets to children prematurely. 'Asset management is critical for financial independence. And in today's digital age, seniors must also be alert to the growing threat of cybercrime targeting them,' he added.
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