COVID-19 Pandemic And Risk Of Elderly Population In India

Pooja Rani, Assistant Professor, Silver Law College, Bareilly (U.P.)

ABSTRACT

Increased life expectancy and lower mortality rates have resulted in a rapid increase in India's elderly population. The elderly in India are at much higher health risk due to poor economic conditions, low literacy, and poor hygiene. Chronic disorders, such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), diabetes, hypertension, dementia, and others, affect most people over 60. Furthermore, the weakened immune system associated with old age makes them more vulnerable to infections.

The elderly in India have been the most vulnerable group in the COVID-19 pandemic, accounting for 53 per cent of the recorded COVID-19 fatalities. The elderly has a chronic rise in systemic inflammation, which is exacerbated by SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. Patients with chronic respiratory disorders have a higher level of ACE-2 expression, which may lead to a higher viral load in the case of COVID-19 infection. In our nation, the elderly need special attention to be safe from disease and have adequate disease control in disease manifestation.

Keywords: Elderly, Covid-19, Impact, Pandemic