International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development

Population ageing is an important demographic and social transformation in India, with significant implications for healthcare, social security, economic independence, family support, dignity and access to justice. Older persons are entitled to the same fundamental human rights as other members of society, including dignity, equality, independence, participation, healthcare, social security and protection from abuse, neglect and exploitation. The United Nations Principles for Older Persons emphasize independence, participation, care, selffulfilment and dignity as central principles of ageing with rights (United Nations, 1991). India has established constitutional provisions, national policies, legislation and welfare programmes to protect older persons, including the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 and the National Policy for Senior Citizens, 2011. However, the existence of legal and welfare provisions does not necessarily ensure that older persons are aware of them or can access their entitlements. This systematic review synthesizes Indian evidence concerning awareness of elderly rights, legal provisions, social-security schemes, welfare programmes, healthcare entitlements, concessions and access to justice. The literature indicates substantial variation in awareness, with knowledge of old-age pensions generally higher than awareness of specific legal rights. A persistent gap between awareness and utilization is evident across several Indian studies. Education, socioeconomic status, gender, place of residence, information sources and administrative accessibility influence awareness and utilization. Community-based educational interventions have demonstrated potential to improve awareness and utilization. The review highlights the need for a comprehensive rights-based approach involving social workers, healthcare professionals, government agencies, legal-aid institutions, NGOs, families and older persons' organizations.

Dr.RNP. Srinath Prasad, Dr Bestha Suresh, "Awareness of the Rights of Older Persons in India: A Systematic Review" International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development, V9(4): Page(1453-1460) July-August 2026. ISSN: 2581-7175. www.ijsred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.