Life after migration: A comparative study on successful aging in India

Abstract

Understanding the dynamics of successful aging in India is crucial, especially in the context of a rising aging population. India, being home to one of the largest internal migrant population in the world, presents a unique context to examine how migration influences aging outcomes. This study investigates disparities in successful aging outcomes between migrant and non-migrant populations in India. Utilizing the Longitudinal Aging Study in India data (n = 23,690), it focuses on the impact of migration status, regional variations, and early life socio-economic and health conditions on aging. Logistic regression, propensity score matching and Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition are employed to explore the association between migration and successful aging. Results reveal significant disparities, with migrants less likely to achieve successful aging, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Significant regional disparities and varied childhood socio-economic and health effects highlight the complex interplay between migration and socio-economic status in shaping successful aging trajectories in India. This study provides the first nationally representative evidence from India linking migration and aging, grounded in the Cumulative Inequality framework. The findings emphasize the need for migrant-inclusive aging and health policies, particularly improving portability of social protection, strengthening community-based care, and addressing gendered vulnerabilities to promote equitable and successful aging. © © 2025. Published by Elsevier Inc.