The Ugandan government is exploring a dedicated health insurance scheme for older persons to alleviate the financial strain of medical care as the country's ageing population grows. This initiative coincides with the International Day for Older Persons, which highlights the need for improved healthcare for senior citizens. The scheme aims to support the elderly, who currently face significant medical expenses.
Uganda's population of older persons stands at 5 percent of the total population and is projected to reach over 2.6 million by 2026, up from 2.3 million recorded in the 2024 National Population and Housing Census. The government is seeking ways to ensure older persons can access affordable healthcare, as a substantial portion of their financial support is spent on medical care.
State Minister for Elderly Affairs Jacqueline Mbabazi stated that the proposed health insurance scheme intends to ease the burden on caregivers, who often support older persons. Currently, about 5.9 million people are orphans or dependants, while approximately 7.5 million people care for older persons. The minister emphasized the importance of health insurance, citing that up to 30 percent of the Shs25,000 quarterly grant received by older persons is used for medical care.
The International Day of Older Persons national commemorations will be held virtually at State House under the theme "Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems." This event draws attention to the broader population relying on care and social support. The government's initiative aims to address the healthcare needs of older persons and provide financial relief to caregivers.
Minister Mbabazi revealed that the government had put on hold its plans to extend the Social Assistance Grants for Empowerment (SAGE) program to older persons aged 65 due to a funding shortfall of Shs252 billion. Although the Cabinet approved the progressive reduction of the program's eligibility age from 80 to 65 years, the expansion cannot proceed without the required funding.
Under SAGE, eligible older persons receive a monthly cash grant of Shs25,000, a figure that officials propose increasing to Shs35,000 to support dignified living and improve income security. The government is discussing with insurance companies to provide an exception, but the limitation is funds, as the government cannot pay for the insurance scheme.
The proposed health insurance scheme and potential increase in the SAGE grant aim to support older persons in Uganda, ensuring they receive adequate care and financial support. The government's efforts focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by the elderly, promoting ageing with dignity, and strengthening care and support systems.
Key points
- The Ugandan government is considering a health insurance scheme for older persons to reduce the financial burden of medical care.
- The country's ageing population is projected to reach over 2.6 million by 2026.
- The proposed scheme aims to ease the burden on caregivers, who often support older persons.
