Changing perceptions of elderly living in care homes

Abstract

ABSTRACT Changing age structure is one of structural change that witnessed in the last century. Population ageing is one of its consequences, which emerges as a global phenomenon in the present day. It is generally expressed as older individuals forming large share of the total population. This process is considered to be an end product of demographic transition or demographic achievements with a decline in both birth and mortality rates and consequent increase in the life expectancy at birth and older ages In large joint families, our grandparents always enjoyed centre-stage; they were consulted by their adult children, loved and respected by their grandchildren. however, today much of this respect for elders have withered away. Today, as the number of elderly in India touches 100 million, this figure, gives us no reason to celebrate. Even in rural areas the changing family patterns with younger people migrating to cities in search of work, a large number of elders are being left alone, ill-equipped to meet the debilitating effects of advanced age. The lives of many older people are more frequently negatively affected by the social and economic insecurity that accompany the demographic and developmental process (World Bank, 2000). The growth of individualism and desire for the independence and autonomy of the young generation (Serow, 2001) affect the status of the elderly in the country. This is one of the many reasons for large number of old age homes in the country. The paper highlights the changing perception of elderly of being in care home. From the five cases researcher can concluded that there is change in the concept of elderly being in care home.