India Intergenerational Bonds: HelpAge India Report Highlights Youth and Elder Dynamics

Team L&M

On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15), HelpAge India released its landmark study, India Intergenerational Bonds – INBO Report, the first national study to explore intergenerational dynamics and perceptions of ageing in urban India. The study surveyed 5,798 respondents across 10 metro and non-metro cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Kanpur, Nagpur, and Madurai), covering youth aged 18–30 and elders aged 60 and above, primarily from SEC B and C urban households.

The research combined quantitative surveys with qualitative focus group discussions (FGDs) to examine emotional, relational, and psychological aspects of youth-elder interactions. It sheds light on both the positive connections and gaps in understanding between generations in urban India.

Key Findings: Youth and Elders in Urban India

• Respect and value for elders remain strong: 86% of elders feel valued, yet many report feeling emotionally distant or excluded from meaningful engagement.
• Perceptions of ageing among youth: Youth associate elders with “lonely” (56%), “dependent” (48%), but also “wise” (51%) and “respected” (43%).
• Family remains central: Youth primarily interact with grandparents (49%) and parents (45%), while elders connect mainly with sons (50%) and grandsons (40%).
• Digital divide persists: Only 41% of elders own smartphones, 13% use the internet or social media, and 5% access online services like banking or health apps. Youth act as primary digital enablers.
• Health and support: 81% of elders and 82% of youth believe accompaniment to doctor visits is essential, while 65% support help with medication and home care.
• Housing preferences: 88% of youth expect to live with family in old age, aligning with 83% of elders currently living with or planning to live with family.
• Non-metro cities show stronger traditional bonds: Youth in non-metro cities scored higher in expressions of respect and intergenerational connection than metro counterparts.

Opportunities for an Age-Inclusive Society

Rohit Prasad, CEO of HelpAge India, emphasizes that India’s dual demographic advantage—the world’s largest youth population and a rapidly growing elder segment—presents a unique opportunity to bridge generations. By fostering intergenerational collaboration in caregiving, digital literacy, volunteering, and lifelong learning, ageing can become a phase of shared purpose rather than isolation.

Youth volunteers are increasingly supporting elders in digital adoption, errands, and companionship, demonstrating a willingness to narrow the generation gap. Yet challenges remain, including youth’s busy schedules and elders’ apprehensions about technology.

Media Influence and Changing Perceptions

The report highlights the role of media in shaping youth perceptions of ageing, with 80% noting that portrayals of elders as wise, caring, dependent, or comic influence their views. HelpAge India’s #GenerationsTogether initiative aims to promote age-positive narratives, encouraging both youth and elders to engage in meaningful activities together.

Conclusion

The INBO Report underscores the importance of intergenerational bonds, emphasizing that fostering mutual respect, emotional presence, and practical support strengthens families and creates a healthier, more age-inclusive society. As India advances demographically, these insights provide guidance to policymakers, families, and communities on nurturing strong, cross-generational connections.