Author(s): Akanksha Nandan, Mukta Garg and Aditi Dutt

Abstract: In India, old age has historically not been considered a problematic issue. However, recent demographic, socio-economic, and structural changes have brought ageing issues to the forefront of social concern. Family institutions have also been impacted, presenting a unique challenge in providing care for the elderly. As a result, old age homes have emerged as alternative care facilities for the elderly in India, leading to an increase in the study of elderly individuals residing in such homes. A recent study conducted in Kanpur and Lucknow, India examined the reasons behind the shift of elderly individuals to old age homes. The study aimed to identify the factors that have compelled the elderly to stay in these institutions. To achieve this, a sample of 300 institutionalized elderly individuals was taken. The results showed that the most common reasons for shifting to old age homes included misbehavior by the son and daughter-in-law, life threats from children, having no son, being unable to tolerate interference from family members, poverty or a lack of financial support, desiring an independent and peaceful life, homelessness, and a lack of a caretaker at home. Given the significance of these findings, it is essential to address the issues faced by the elderly in India.

Pages: 96-100 | Views: 32 | Downloads: 5

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