Elderly Care and Gender

Abstract

Background: India has begun to feel the burden of an aging society. Aging individuals are now living longer with increasing life expectancy and availability of better health facilities but are also requiring more assistance or care to manage their day to day activities. Objective: This paper examines gender differences in the term of care of older parents in India by studying the expected provision of care by family members. Gender differences in care are important, as the socio-cultural environment of India shapes the role of married children. While married sons are expected to provide long-term care for their biological parents, married daughters have limited scope to do so. This paper examines the level of care of the elderly on basis of gender in the family. Method: To conduct the above-mentioned study the present researcher used both quantitative and qualitative methods.  The present study has been conducted based on the 2011 census of Kolkata City in the West Bengal, India, 150 respondents above the age of 55 selected by Purposive sampling, where 75 females and 75 Males have been interviewed. Since most of the respondents were illiterate, therefore direct interview was necessary. Results: The existing condition of the elderly women living in the family was, they feel lonelier, depressive and have a lower level of satisfaction with life. In this context, the need for preserving our tradition of a joint family and the mutual cooperation and understanding between the young and the older generations can be more pressing. Conclusion: The situation calls for concerted efforts of the government, non-governmental organizations, religious institutions and individuals not only to understand but also to solve or at least mitigate the whole gamut of problems resulting from a graying society so that the aged people can lead a dignified and meaningful life.