Old Age Homes as a New Pattern of Life

Abstract

Old age homes are coming in existence as a newer occupancy for elderly and becoming the need of present Indian society. The recent data collected from several studies show that there are more than 1000 old age homes in India and most of them are located in the south India. There are of two types of old age homes: free and paid. The “free” type care homes are for the destitute old people who have no family to care and support for them. In such old age homes shelter, food, clothing and medical care, etc. are being provided free of cost. In the paid type, all types of services are available for a price. However, hardly studies explored the factors responsible to compel elderly to reside in old age homes. Therefore, an attempt was made through this paper to explore factors responsible to force elderly to reside in old age homes leaving their own homes. There have been many transformations in recent years that have had an impact on society in different sectors—societal, financial and personal. Lifestyles have drastically changed, some for the better and a few with negative consequences. The population in general has been reaping the benefits, and mostly, those from the younger generation have been able to realize many of their dreams and develop their careers in a better fashion than was possible earlier. However, the senior citizens, referred to as elders, face certain problems as a consequence of the social transformation. This is reflected in the transition from the traditional ways of life to modern patterns, which require many compromises and adjustments. One of these involves old age homes. What is the genesis of old age homes and how have they changed life patterns for the elders? These questions need to be examined dispassionately.