The problems of elderly people are universal. In India the number of elderly people has increased due to the increase in the expectancy of life. 

This has led to the following social and physical problems:

1. Children are forgetting their moral responsibilities, values and culture due to the influence of the western culture.
2. The joint families have been replaced by the nuclear families.
3. Many elderly people are compelled to live in ‘Old Age Homes’.
4. As most elderly people have retired from their professions, they have very little or no income. They are helpless people who depend on their children for the fulfillment of their basic needs.
5. Their physical and emotional needs are neglected. They feel neglected and insecure.

Provisions made for protection and welfare of elderly:

Attention was drawn to the problems of the elderly people. The Government of India has adopted the National Policy for the Senior Citizens. 

The following provisions have been made for the protection and welfare of the elderly people as well as senior citizens:

1. The National Policy has provided pension to elderly people.
2. Higher interest rate is prescribed on their savings with the Post Offices and Banks.
3. They are given 30 to 50 percent concession on buses, rail and air tickets.
4. The state governments have started ‘Old Age Homes’ in every district with adequate facilities.
5. A number of seats in the public transport are reserved for them.
6. Gardens have been developed in cities wherein they can leisurely sit/walk and participate in Music and Yoga activities with the other elderly people.
7. Parental Care and Welfare Act, 2007 protects them from domestic violence, exploitation an abuse. Any harassment by children is a cognizable offence.
8. The responsibility of maintaining parents is imposed on their children/ relatives.
9. The government honours the senior citizens for their contribution in the making of the nation.