Gerontologia e pesquisa geriátrica

Abstrato

A study of elderly living in old age homes in Manipur, India

Gaitri Rajkumari

Old age was never seen as a problem in India. But recently ageing issues have begun to emerge as a case of social concern. Demographic, socio-economic and structural challenges are also taking place within the family institutes. India is now facing a unique situation in providing care for the elderly section and old age homes is one of alternate care facilities. Thus studying elderly in old age homes has become a significant area of social research. The study examined the socioeconomic profile of elderly who are living in four old age homes in Manipur, India. It also probes into the factors that have compelled the elderly to stay in these institutions. The present paper is based on the study conducted in different old age homes of Manipur by taking a sample of 69 institutionalized elderly. The study revealed that most of the elderly in the old age homes were from rural background, illiterate, widowed and are economically dependent on others with female residents far more the males. The most common reasons for shifting to old age homes were verbal abuse of daughter in law, financial constraints , verbal abuse of son, nobody to look after, physical abuse, tarnishing self-respect, health issues and many more. Majority of the respondents are satisfied with the facilities provided by the institute.