Factors behind increasing admissions in old-age homes and perception of general public to them
Author : Rishabh Sharma
DPS International Saket
Abstract
The number of old age homes in India in 2016 was around 500. Now this number has risen to over 728. Moreover as per United Nations Population fund the number of elder citizens in India will rise from 5 percent in 2015 to over 19 percent in 2050. This rise in elderly population may hint at more old-age homes being built. This research study aimed to evaluate the factors behind the increasing placements of elderly in such shelters and view the perception of the general public of different age groups of India (northern India) towards the issue in order to evaluate the future trend which is likely to follow regarding these admissions. A survey had been conducted, consisting of 176 respondents, belonging to either of the age groups of 24&below, 25-40 and above 40 years old. Alongside, interviews were conducted at an old-age shelter to receive more in-depth knowledge of the topic. The factors which were rated higher were ‘Mental and physical abuse by elderly’, 'Westernisation(nuclear system)' and 'Poverty and financial insecurity', which was even supported by the open ended questions and thematic analysis from the interview. Furthermore, the study showed that there was a significant difference in the ratings between the respondents aged 24 and below with the other two age groups regarding few factors highlighting generational gap and difference in thought-process. Government and educational institutions could benefit from this study to inculcate more respect and value among younger generation, while promoting our own roots and culture, to strengthen their bond with elderly and create a more healthy relationship which might reduce the rate of these admissions and/or increase the connect of the elderly present in these shelters with their existing families.