Health Ministry launches Longitudinal Ageing Study in India

The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare launched the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI),  in New Delhi on Tuesday. Launching the project, B P Sharma, Secretary (HFW) stated that this is the largest survey of its kind. It will survey more than 60,000 elderly over 25 years plan. He further added that this survey will provide scientifically validated data on various issues of the elderly.

“The importance of the study derives from the increasing portion of elderly population in the country. The study will provide valuable data on their health needs, and issues faced by them given the changing social structures, and help us to draw policy tools to address their issues,” said Sharma.

Terming this a very useful study, Sharma further added that the LASI study will provide guidance to move forward in designing schemes for the elderly. He also informed about the Health Protection Scheme announced in the recent Budget, which has a special component of Rs 30,000 for the elderly in the family.