The Changing Landscape of Elderly Care: Factors Determining Institutionalisation among the Geriatric Population of Nashik, Maharashtra

Abstract

Ageing is emerging as an increasingly important social and development issue in India, with its elderly population on the rise steadily. Increased life expectancy is a sign of better health and living standards, but it also brings new problems such as the need for ageing care, social support, financial security and health management. In the past, families have been the main carers for older people. The older members were respected for their experience and wisdom in a joint family system and were generally supported by the younger generation in emotional, social and economic spheres. But there have been huge changes in the social fabric of Indian families over the last few decades. Traditional caregiving arrangements have been changed by urbanisation, migration for education and employment, changing lifestyles, and the increasing prevalence of nuclear families. Thus, the number of old people who want to live in old age homes is increasing, and this is more visible in developing cities like Nashik, Maharashtra.