ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

It is my duty to record my gratitude for all the help and

suggestions that I have from different sources in the presentation of
this work. I wish to express my gratitude to Lecturer Vidyut Joshi,
for his scholarly guidance. The magnitude of my task was rendered
easy by the valuable and supervision of Lecturer, to whom I am
greatly indebted and obliged. I am also grateful to my friends. My
sincere thanks to the aged people in Sangopan, Aged And
Bedridden Patients Can Stay Comfortably With Us. At Near
Village Sonawala Badlapur (W) for patiently answering my
questions during my interview.

Recent Development
and
Legislation
of
Old Age Homes

CHAPTER NO:- 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Back-Ground Of Old Age Homes

Ageing is a universal biological fact and a natural process. It begins from the
day we are born, or perhaps even before. The perception of age, however, is
socially constructed. Isolation, exclusion and marginalization of older persons
are the consequences of age discrimination. It not only undermines the status
of older persons in society but also threatens the overall development of a
society. The quality of life of the older person, however, can be improved by
mainstreaming their concerns systematically into the overall developmental
agenda.

1.2 HYPOTHESIS:
For this research following hypothesises were formulated:
The rise in NUCLEAR FAMILIES have led to the increase in more
number of OLD AGE HOMES.
Even in joint families, aged people are exposed to somewhat emotional
neglect and a lack of physical support.
The rapid socio-economic transformation has affected the age old joint
families.

1.3 METHODOLOGY
This study is based on primary and secondary sources. I have done a sociolegal research relating to old age homes and various factors contributing to the
rise and development of old age homes. I also adopted observation method
and questionnaire method for the purpose of my study and the research
delivers.

1.4 SCOPE OF THIS RESEARCH:

The data has been collected for the purpose of this study from leading
newspapers with wide circulation and coverage. I have also collected
information from few old age homes situated in BADLAPUR for a detailed
study on the living of the aged people and the various laws and organisations
governing and helping them.

1.5 Problem of Study

This is secundary data

This very difficult to put right information

And this information are ready but very difficult to find out

And this not sutable to studies.

CHAPTER

NO:-2.

POLICIES

AND

PROGRAMMES ON POPULATION AGEING:

In the modern times, the role of family has been undergoing significant
changes. Even in traditional societies of Asia or Africa there is a visible
change taking place so far as the role and function of family is concerned. The
traditional joint family system is gradually making way for nuclear family
mode. Family, nevertheless, occupies a unique place in the traditional as well
as modern societies even today. It assumes diverse forms and functions that
vary from region to region. In a society, as large and culturally diverse and
complex as India, changes take place at different speeds and at different levels
of population. As such, the directions and pattern of change tend to vary not
only among different segments of society, but also in different kinds of family
organizations, which vary considerably both structurally and functionally.

Indian family, which has been predominantly joint or extended one, remained
stable despite some marked and drastic social, political, economic and
religious changes over the last few decades. It has, however, retained certain
structural forms and traditional values. The historical cultural tradition of care
and respect for the elderly within the family and the community has made the
task of caring and empowering the aged relatively smooth and easy both for
the society and the Government in India.

Director, National Institute of Social Defence, Ministry of Social Justice &

Empowerment, Government of India. Since the traditional norms and values
of the Indian society laid stress on respect and care for the aged, the aged
member of the family were normally taken care of in the family itself. In
recent times the rapid socio-economic transformation has affected every
aspect of traditional Indian society. Industrialization with resultant
urbanization and migration of population has affected institutions like the age
old joint family. Technological advancement, impact of mass media and
higher degree of mobility have influenced long established life styles,

conventional value systems and customary place of aged and women in the
society. Thus, the society is witnessing a gradual but definite withering of the
joint family system as a result of which a section of the family, primarily the
elder, are exposed to somewhat emotional neglect and a lack of physical
support.

As a result of demographic changes and the changing family context, it can

no longer be assumed that the older persons live comfortably at home
receiving care from family members. Given the trend of population ageing in
India, the older persons face a number of problems ranging from absence of
ensured and sufficient income to support themselves and their dependants, to
ill-health, to absence of social security, to loss of a productive social role and
recognition, to non-availability of opportunities for creative use of free time.
The trend clearly reveals that ageing poses a major challenge, and vast
resources are required towards the support, care and treatment of the older
person. There is an emerging need to pay greater attention to ageing issues and
to promote holistic policies and programmes for dealing with an ageing
society. Care of older persons is a growing concern of every individual and
social security of the elderly is one of the prime responsibilities of the State.

(A) DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION

As per Census 2001, the number of older persons in 2001 was 70.6 million
(6.9%) which was projected to be 83.5 million in 2006 (7.5%). As per the
projections the percentage of older persons will be 94.8 million in 2011
(8.3%), 118 million in 2016, (9.3%) 143.7 million in 2021(10.7%) and 173.1
million in 2026 (12.4%).

The gender position of the elderly reveals that the life expectancy of women is
expected to remain higher. For the period 2006-2010 the life expectancy of
female is 68.1 against 65.8 of males which will rise to 72.3 for female against
69.02 for males during the period 2011-2016. This indicates that the
population of elderly women will account for a larger chunk compared to their
male counterpart in 60+ age bracket.
6

In absolute terms, the projection for male population in 60 + age group was
35 million in 2001, projected to be 40.7 million in 2006 and 48 million in
2011 as against the female population in same age group was 36 million in
2001, 42 million in 2006 and 50.2 million in 2011. From the projected figures
for the year 2006-2011 and 2016, 2021 and 2026, it is also clear that
percentage of female population in 70 + age group will outnumber their male
counterpart in the same age group. This accounts for a larger female
population in the overall 60 + age group compared to the male population in
the years to come. Many of women in the 70 + age group would be either
widow or single without any ostensible support for themselves.

A comparison of rural elderly and the urban establish the fact that around
74.97 per cent of older persons live in rural areas and 25.02 in urban areas.
This involves planning for post retirement socio-economic security through
continued skill up-gradation, employment and participation in other creative
and gainful activities.

With the changing lifestyle of modern society the young generation are
migrating from not only rural to urban area rather one country to another as
well; leading to increase in old age dependency ratio. The old age dependency
ratio (number of old persons 60+ years) to the working age group (15-59
years) has increased from 9.8 per cent in 1981 to about 12.6 per cent by the
year 2001. (Census of India,2001)

(B) DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION & EMERGING ISSUES

The increase in life expectancy with better health care, nutritious food and
socioeconomic status, has led to the demographic transition which impacts the
prosperity and health of the people. This necessitates old age specific health
management to address the age-linked health problems like cataract related
blindness, osteoarthritis, hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke,
heart failure, Alzheimers disease and other dementias, Parkinsons disease
osteoporosis, and fractures, cancer, enlarged prostate and depression, etc.
7

The needs of older persons living in rural areas that accounts for about 62.5
million of them, require special attention. The Government is concerned to
provide the rural elderly access to health system, socio-economic security, the
institutional care and homes for the destitute.

CHAPTER NO:-3 . NATIONAL POLICY ON

OLDER PERSON
(A) Demographic Trends
Demographic ageing, a global phenomenon has hit Indian shores as well.
People are living longer. Expectation of life at birth for males has shown a
steady rise from 42 years in 1951-60 to 58 years in 1986-90, it is projected to
be 67 years in 2011-16, an increase of about 9 years in a twenty five year
period (1986-90 to 2011-16). In the case of females, the increase in
expectation of life has been higher -about 11 years during the same period,
from 58 years in 1986-90 to 69 year in 2011-16. At age 60 too, the expectation
of life shows a steady rise and is a little higher for women. In 1989-93, it was
15 years for males and 16 years for females.

Improved life expectancy has contributed to an increase in the number of

persons 60+ from only 12 million persons 60+ in India in 1901, the number
crossed 20 million in 1951 and 57 million in 1991. Population projections for
1996-2016 made by the Technical Group on Population Projections (1996)
indicate that the 100 million mark is expected to reach in 2013. Projections
beyond 2016 made by the United Nations (1996 Revision) has indicated that
India will have 198 million persons 60+ in 2030 and 326 million in 2050. The
percentage of persons 60+ in the total population has seen a steady rise from
5.1 percent in 1901 to 6.8 percent in 1991. It is expected to reach 8.9 percent
in 2016. Projections beyond 2016 made by United Nations (1996 Revision)
has indicated that 21 percent of the Indian population will be 60+ by 2050.
Growth rate on a large demographic base implies a much larger increase in
numbers. This will be the case in the coming years. The decade 2001-11 is
expected to witness an increase of 25 million persons 60+ which is equivalent
to the total population of persons 60+ in 1961. The twenty five years period
1991 to 2016 will witness an increase of 55.4 million persons 60+ which is
nearly the same as the population of persons 60+ in 1991. In other words, in a

twenty five years period starting 1991 the population 60+ will nearly double
itself.

Sixty three percent of the population in 1991 (36 million) is in the age group
60-69 years, often referred to as young old or not so old while 11 percent
(6 million) is in the age group 80 years and over i.e., in the older old or very
old category. In 2016, the percentages in these age groups will be almost the
same, but the numbers are expected to be 69 million and 11 million
respectively. In other words, close to six tenths of population 60-69 years can
be expected to be in reasonably good physical and mental health, free of
serious disability and capable of leading an active life. About one third of the
population 70-79 years can also be expected to be fit for a reasonably active
life. This is indicative of the huge reserve of human resource.

Men outnumber women in India even after age 60 (29 million males, 27
million females 60+ in 1991). This will continue to be the situation in 2016
when there will be an estimated 57 million males and 56 million females 60+.
Incidence of widowhood is much higher among females 60+ than among
males of the same age group because it is customary for women to get married
to men older by several years; also, they do not remarry and live longer. There
were in 1991, 14.8 million widowed females 60+ compared to 4.5 million
widowed males. In other words, there were four times as many widowed
females as widowed males.

(B) Implications
The demographic ageing of population has implications at the macro and also
at household level. The sheer magnitude of numbers is indicative both of the
huge human reserve and also of the scale of endeavours necessary to provide
social services and other benefits.

Demographic transition has been accompanied by changes in society and

economy. These are of a positive nature in some areas and a cause of concern
in others.
10

A growing number of persons 60+ in the coming decades will belong to the
middle and upper income groups, be economically better off with some degree
of financial security, have higher professional and educational qualifications,
lead an active life in their 60s and even first half of the 70s, and have a
positive frame of mind looking for opportunities for a more active, creative
and satisfying life.

Some areas of concern in the situation of older persons will also emerge, signs
of which are already evident, resulting in pressures and fissures in living
arrangements of older persons. It is true that family ties in India are very
strong and an overwhelming majority live with their sons or are supported by
them. Also, working couples find the presence of old parents emotionally
bonding and of great help in managing the household and caring for children.
However, due to the operation of several forces, the position of a large number
of older persons has become vulnerable due to which they cannot take for
granted that their children will be able to look after them when they need care
in old age, specially in view of the longer life span implying an extended
period of dependency and higher costs to meet health and other needs.

Industrialisation, urbanization, education and exposure to life styles in

developed countries are bringing changes in values and life styles. Much
higher costs of bringing up and educating children and pressures for
gratification of their desires affects transfer of share of income for the care of
parents. Due to shortage of space in dwellings in urban areas and high rents,
migrants prefer to leave their parents in their native place. Changing roles and
expectations of women, their concepts of privacy and space, desire not to be
encumbered by caring responsibilities of old people for long periods, career
ambitions, and employment outside the home implies considerably reduced
time for care giving. Also, adoption of small family norms by a growing
number of people implies availability of fewer care givers specially since in a
growing number of families, daughters, too, are fully occupied, pursuing their
educational or work career. The position of single persons, particularly
females, is more vulnerable in old age as few persons are willing to take care
11

of non-lineal relatives. So also is the situation of widows an overwhelming

majority of whom have no independent source of income, do not own assets
and are totally dependent.

(C) The Mandate

Well-being of older persons has been mandated in the Constitution of India.
Article 41, a Directive Principle of State Policy, has directed that the State
shall, within the limits of its economic capacity and development, make
effective provision for securing the right of public assistance in cases of old
age. There are other provisions, too, which direct the State to improve the
quality of life of its citizens. Right to equality has been guaranteed by the
Constitution as a Fundamental Right. These provisions apply equally to older
persons. Social security has been made the concurrent responsibility of the
Central and State Governments.

The last two decades have witnessed considerable discussion and debate on
the impact of demographic transition and of changes in society and economy
on the situation of older persons. The United Nations Principles for Older
Persons adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1991, the
Proclamation on Ageing and the Global Targets on Ageing for the year 2001
adopted by the General Assembly in 1992, and various other Resolutions
adopted from time to time, are intended to encourage governments to design
their own policies and programmes in this regard.

There has for several years been a demand for a Policy Statement by the State
towards its senior citizens so that they do not face an identity crisis and know
where they stand in the overall national perspective. The need has been
expressed at different forums where ageing issues have been deliberated. The
Statement, by indicating the principles underlying the policy, the directions,
the needs that will be addressed and the relative roles of governmental and
non-governmental institutions, is expected to facilitate carving out of
respective areas of operation and action in the direction of a humane age
integrated society.
12

CHAPTER NO:- 4.THE NATIONAL POLICY

STATEMENTS
The National Policy seeks to assure older persons that their concerns are
national concerns and they will not live unprotected, ignored or marginalized.
The goal of the National Policy is the well-being of older persons. It aims to
strengthen their legitimate place in society and help older persons to live the
last phase of their life with purpose, dignity and peace.

The Policy visualizes that the State will extend support for financial security,
health care, shelter, welfare and other needs of older persons, provide
protection against abuse and exploitation, make available opportunities for
development of the potential of older persons, seek their participation, and
provide services so that they can improve the quality of their lives. The Policy
is based on some broad principles.

The Policy recognizes the need for affirmative action in favour of the elderly.
It has to be ensured that the rights of older persons are not violated and they
get opportunities and equitable share in development benefits, different sectors
of development, programmes and administrative actions will reflect sensitivity
in older persons living in rural areas. Special attention will be necessary to
older females so that they do not become victims of triple neglect and
discrimination on account of gender, widowhood and age.

The Policy views the life cycle as a continuum, of which post 60 phase of life
is an integral part. It does not view age 60 as the cut off point for beginning a
life of dependency. It considers 60+ as a phase when the individual should
have the choices and the opportunities to lead an active, creative, productive
and satisfying life. An important thrust is therefore, on active and productive
involvement of older persons and not just their care.

13

The Policy values an age integrated society. It will endeavour to strengthen

integration between generations, facilitate two way flows and interactions, and
strengthen bonds between the young and the old. It believes in the
development of a social support system, informal as well as formal, so that the
capacity of families to take care of older persons is strengthened and they can
continue to live in their family.

The Policy recognizes that older persons, too, are a resource. They render
useful services in the family and outside. They are not just consumers of goods
and services but also their producers. Opportunities and facilities need to be
provided so that they can continue to contribute more effectively to the family,
the community and society.

The Policy firmly believes in the empowerment of older persons so that they
can acquire better control over their lives and participate in decision making
on matters which affect them as well as on other issues as equal partners in the
development process. The decision making process will seek to involve them
to a much larger extent especially since they constitute 12 percent of the
electorate, a proportion which will rise in the coming years.

The Policy recognizes that larger budgetary allocations from the State will be
needed and the rural and urban poor will be given special attention. However,
it is neither feasible nor desirable for the State alone to attain the objectives of
the National Policy. Individuals, families, communities and institutions of civil
society have to join hands as partners.

The Policy emphasises the need for expansion of social and community
services for older persons, particularly women, and enhance their accessibility
and use by removing socio-cultural, economic and physical barriers and
making the services client oriented and user friendly. Special efforts will be
made to ensure that rural areas, where more than three-fourths of the older
population lives, are adequately covered.

14

(A) Financial Security

A great anxiety in old age relates to financial insecurity. When the issue is
seen in the context of fact that one-third of the population (1993-94) is below
the poverty line and about one-third are above it but belong to the lower
income group, the financial situation of two-thirds of the population 60+ can
be said to fragile. Some level of income security in old age is a goal which
will be given very high priority. Policy instruments to cover different income
segments will be developed.

For elderly persons below the poverty line, old age pensions provide some
succour. Coverage under the old age pension scheme for poor persons will be
significantly expanded from the January 1997 level of 2.76 million with the
ultimate objective of covering all older persons below the poverty line.
Simultaneously, it will be necessary to prevent delays and check abuses in the
matter of selection and disbursement. Rate of monthly pension will need to be
revised at intervals so that inflation does not deflate its real purchasing power.
Simultaneously, the public distribution system will reach out to cover all
persons 60+ living below the poverty line.

Employees of government and quasi government bodies and industrial

workers desire better returns from accumulations in provident funds through
prudent and safe investment of the funds. Issues involved will be given careful
consideration. It will be ensured that settlement of pension, provident fund,
gratuity and other retirement benefits is made promptly and superannuated
persons are not put to hardship due to administrative lapses. Accountability for
delays will be fixed. Redressal mechanisms for superannuated persons will
ensure prompt, fair and humane treatment. Widows will be given special
consideration in the matter of settlement of benefits accruing to them on the
demise of husband.

Pension is a much, sought after income security scheme. The base of pension
coverage needs to be considerably expanded. It would be necessary to
facilitate the establishment of pension schemes both in the private as well as in

15

the public sector for self-employed and salaried persons in non-governmental

employment, with provision for employers also to contribute. Paramount
considerations in regard to pension schemes are total security, flexibility,
liquidity and maximisation of returns. Pension Funds will function under the
watchful eye of a strong regulatory authority which lays down the investment
norms and provide strong safeguards.

Taxation policies will reflect sensitivity to the financial problems of older

persons which accelerate due to very high costs of medical and nursing care,
transportations and support services needed at home. Organisations of senior
citizens have been demanding a much higher standard deduction for them and
a standard annual rebate for medical treatment, whether domiciliary or
hospital based, in cases where superannuated persons do not get medical
coverage from their erstwhile employers. There are also demands that some
tax relief must be given to son or daughter when old parents co-reside and also
allow some tax rebate for medical expenses. These and other proposals of tax
relief will be considered.

Long term savings instruments will be promoted to reach both rural and urban
areas. It will be necessary for the contributors to feel assured that the payments
at the end of the stipulated period are attractive enough to take care of the
likely erosion in purchasing power due to erosion. Earners will be motivated
to save in their active working years for financial security in old age.

Pre-retirement counselling programmes will be promoted and assisted.

Employment in income generating activities after superannuation should be
the choice of the individual. Organisations which provide career guidance,
training and orientation, and support services will be assisted. Programmes of
non-governmental organizations for generating incomes of old persons will be
encouraged. Age related discrimination in the matter of entitlement to credit,
marketing and other facilities will be removed. Structural adjustment policies
may affect the older workers in some sectors more adversely, specially those
in household or small scale industry. Measures will be taken to protect their
interests.
16

The right of parents without any means to be supported by their children

having sufficient means has been recognised by Section 125 of the Criminal
Procedure Code. The Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956, too
secures this right to parents. To simplify the procedure, provide speedy relief,
lay down the machinery for processing cases, and define the rights and
circumstances in a comprehensive manner, the Himachal Pradesh Legislative
Assembly passed the Himachal Pradesh Maintenance of Parents and
Dependents Bill, 1996. The Government of Maharashtra has prepared a Bill
on similar lines. Other States will be encouraged to pass similar legislation so
that old parents unable to maintain themselves do not face abandonment and
acute neglect.

(B) Health Care and Nutrition

With advancing age, old persons have to cope with health and associated
problems some of which may be chronic, of a multiple nature, require constant
attention and carry the risk of disability and consequent loss of autonomy.
Some health problems, specially when accompanied by impaired functional
capacity, require long term management of illness at time, and of nursing care.
Health care needs of older persons will be given high priority. The goal should
be good affordable health services, very heavily subsidised for the poor and a
graded system of user charges for others. It will be necessary to have a
judicious mix of public health services, health insurance, health services
provided by not for profit organizations including trusts and charities, and
private medical care. While the first of these will require greater State
participation, the second category will need to be promoted by the State, the
third category given some assistance, concessions and relief, and the fourth
encouraged by subjected to some degree of regulation, preferably by an
association of providers of private care.

The primary health care system will be the basic structure of public health
care. It will be strengthened and oriented to be able to meet the health care
needs of older persons as well public health services, preventive, curative,
17

restorative and rehabilitative, will be considerably expanded and strengthened

and geriatric care facilities provided at secondary and tertiary levels. This will
imply much larger public sector outlays, proper distribution of services in rural
and urban areas, and much better health administration and delivery systems.

The development of health insurance will be given high priority to cater to the
needs of different income segments of the population and have provision for
varying contributions and benefits. Packages catering to the lower income
groups will be entitled to state subsidy. Various reliefs and concessions will be
given to health insurance to enlarge the base of coverage and make them
affordable.

Trusts, charitable societies and voluntary agencies will be promoted,

encouraged and assisted by way of grants, tax relief and land at subsidized
rates to provide free beds, medicines and treatment to the very poor elder
citizens and reasonable user charges for the rest of the population.

Private medical care has expanded in recent years offering the latest medical
treatment facilities to those who can afford it. Where land and other facilities
are provided at less than market rates, bodies representing private hospitals
and nursing homes will be requested to direct their members to offer a
discount to older patients. Private general practitioners will be extended
opportunities for orientation in geriatric care.

Public hospitals will be directed to ensure that elderly patients are not
subjected to long waits and visits to different counters for medical tests and
treatment. They will endeavour to provide separate counters and convenient
timings on specified days. Geriatric wards will be set up.

Medical and para-medical personnel in primary, secondary and tertiary health

care facilities will be given training and orientation in health care of the
elderly. Facilities for specialization in geriatric medicine will be provided in
the medical colleges. Training in nursing care will include geriatric care.
Problems of accessibility and use of health services by the elderly arise due to
18

distance, absence of escort and transportation. Difficulties in reaching a public

health care facility will be addressed through mobile health services, special
camps and ambulance services by charitable institutions and not for profit
health care organizations. Hospitals will be encouraged to have a separate
Welfare Fund which will receive donations and grants for providing free
treatment and medicines to poor elderly patients.

For the old who are chronically ill and are deprived of family support,
hospices supported or assisted by the State, public charity, and voluntary
organizations will be necessary. These are also needed to cater to cases of
abandonment of chronically ill aged patients admitted to public hospitals.
Assistance will be given to geriatric care societies for the production and
distribution of instruction material on self care by older persons. Preparation
and distribution of easy to follow guidance material on health and nursing care
of older persons for the use of family care givers will also be supported.

Older persons and their families will be given access to educational material
on nutritional needs in old age. Information will be made available on the
foods to avoid and the right foods to eat. Diet recipes suiting tastes of different
regions which are nutritious, tasty, fit into the dietary pattern of the family and
the community, are affordable and can be prepared from locally available
vegetables, cereals and fruits, will be disseminated. The concept of health
ageing will be promoted. It is necessary to educate older persons and their
families that diseases are not a corollary of advancing age nor is a particular
chronological age the starting point for decline in health status. On the
contrary, preventive health care and early diagnosis can keep a person in
reasonably good health and prevent disability.

Health education programmes will be strengthened by making use of mass

media, folk media and other communication channels which reach out to
different segments of the population. The capacity to cope with illness and
manage domiciliary care will be strengthened. Programmes will also be
developed targeting the younger and middle age groups to inform them how
life styles during early years affect health status in later years. Messages on
19

how to stay healthy for the entire life span will be given. The importance of
balanced diets, physical exercise, regular habits, reduction of stress, regular
medical check up, allocation of time for leisure and recreation, and pursuit of
hobbies will be conveyed. Programmes on yoga, meditation and methods of
relaxation will be developed and transmitted through different channels of
communication to reach diverse audiences.

Mental health services will be expanded and strengthened. Families will be

provided counselling facilities and information on the care and treatment of
older persons having mental health problems.
Non-governmental organizations will be encouraged and assisted through
grants, training and orientation of their personnel and various concessions and
relief to provide ambulatory services, day care and health care to complement
the efforts of the State.

(C) Shelter
Shelter is a basic human need. The stock of housing for different income
segments will be increased. Housing schemes for urban and rural lower
income segments will earmark 10 per cent of the houses/house sites for
allotment to older persons. This will include Indira Awas Yojana and other
schemes of government. Earning persons will be motivated to invest in their
housing in their earning days so that they have no problems of shelter when
they grow old. This will require speedy urban land development for housing,
time bound provision of civic services and communication links, availability
of loans at reasonable rates, easy repayment installments, time bound
construction schedules and tax reliefs. Development of housing has to be a
joint endeavour of public and private sectors and require participation of
Housing Development Boards, civic authorities, housing finance institutions
and private developers and builders. Older persons will be given easy access
to loans for purchase of housing and for major repairs, with easy repayment
schedules.

20

Layouts of housing colonies will have to respond to the life styles of the
elderly. It will have to be ensured that there are no physical barriers to
mobility, and accessibility to shopping complexes, community centres, parks
and other services is safe and easy. A multi-purpose centre for older persons is
a necessity for social interaction and to meet other needs. It will therefore, be
necessary to earmark sites for such centres in all housing colonies. Segregation
of older persons in housing colonies has to be avoided as it prevents
interaction with the rest of the community. Three or four storied houses
without lifts are unfriendly to older persons, tend to isolate them, restraints
their movement outside the home, and are a serious barrier to access to
services. Preferences will be given to older persons in the allotment of flats on
the ground floor.

Group housing of older persons comprising flatlets with common service

facilities for meals, laundry, common room and rest rooms will be encouraged.
These would have easy access to community services, medicare, parks,
recreation and cultural centres. Education, training and orientation of town
planners, architects and housing administrators will include modules on needs
of older persons for safe and comfortable living.

Older persons and their families will be provided access to information on

prevention of accidents and on measures which enhance safety, taking
cognizance of reduced physical capacity and infirmities. Noise and other
forms of pollution affect children, the sick and older persons more adversely.
Norms will be laid down and strictly enforced.

Civic authorities and bodies providing public utilities will be required to give
top priority to attending complaints of older persons. Payment of civic dues
will be facilitated. Older persons will be given special consideration in
promptly dealing with matters relating to transfer of property, mutation,
property tax and other matters. Harassment and abuses in such cases will be
checked.

21

(D) Education
Education, training and information needs of older persons will be met. These
have received virtually no attention in the past. Information and educational
material specially relevant to the lives of older people will be developed and
widely disseminated using mass media and non-formal communication
channels.

Discriminations, if any, against older persons for availing opportunities for

education, training and orientation will be removed. Continuing education
programmes will be encouraged and supported. These would cover a wide
spectrum ranging from career development to creative use of leisure,
appreciation of art, culture and social heritage and imparting skills in
community work and welfare activities. Assistance of open universities will be
sought to develop packages using distance learning techniques. Access of
older persons to libraries of universities, research institutions and cultural
centres will be facilitated.

Educational curriculum at all stages of formal education as also non-formal

education

programmes

will

incorporate

material

to

strengthen

intergenerational bonds and mutually supporting relationships. Interactions

with educational institutions will be facilitated whereby older persons with
professional qualifications and knowledge in science, arts, environment, sociocultural heritage, sports and other areas could interact with children and young
persons. Schools will be encouraged and assisted to develop out-reach
programmes for interacting with older persons on a regular basis, participate in
the running of senior citizens centres and develop activities in them.
Individuals of all ages, families and communities will be provided with
information about the ageing process and the changing roles, responsibilities
and relationships at different stages of the life cycle. The contributions of
older persons inside the household and outside will be highlighted through the
media and other forums and negative images, myths and stereotypes dispelled.

22

(E) Welfare
The main thrust of welfare will be to identify the more vulnerable among the
older persons such as the poor, the disabled, the infirm, the chronically sick
and those without family support, and provide welfare services to them on a
priority basis. The policy will be to consider institutional care as the last resort
when personal circumstances are such that stay in old age homes becomes
absolutely necessary.

Non-institutional services by voluntary organizations will be promoted and

assisted to strengthen the coping capacity of older persons and their families.
This has become necessary since families, as they become smaller and women
work outside the home, have to cope with scarcity of full time care givers.
Support services will provide some relief through sharing of the familys
caring responsibilities.

Assistance will be provided to voluntary organizations by way of grants-in-aid

for construction and maintenance of old age homes. Those for the poor will be
heavily subsidized. It is important that such institutions become lively places
of stay and provide opportunities to residents to interact with the outside
world. Non-governmental organizations will be encouraged to seek
professional expertise in the designing of old age homes, keeping in view
needs of group living at this stage of the life cycle and the class of clients they
serve. Minimum standards of services in such homes will be developed and
facilities provided for training and orientation of persons employed in these
homes.

Voluntary organizations will be encouraged and assisted to organize services

such as day care, multi-service citizens centres, reach-out services, supply of
disability related aids and appliances, assistance to old persons to learn to use
them, short term stay services and friendly home visits by social workers. For
old couples or persons living on their own, helpline, telephone assurance
services, help in maintaining contacts with friends, relatives and neighbours
and escorting older persons to hospitals, shopping complexes and other places

23

will be promoted for which assistance will be given to voluntary

organizations. Older persons will be encouraged to form informal groups of
their own in the neighbourhood which satisfy the needs for social interaction,
recreation and other activities. For a group of neighbourhoods/villages, the
formation of senior citizens forums will be encouraged.

A Welfare Fund for older persons will be set up. It will obtain funding support
from government, corporate sector, trusts, charities, individual donors and
others. Contributions to the Fund will be given tax relief. States will be
expected to establish similar Funds. The need for plurality of arrangements for
welfare services is recognised. Government, voluntary organizations and
private sector agencies all have a place, the latter catering to those who have
the means and desire better standards of care.

(F) Protection of Life and Property

Old persons have become soft targets for criminal elements. They also become
victims of fraudulent dealings and of physical and emotional abuse within the
household by family members to force them to part with their ownership
rights. Widows rights of inheritance, occupancy and disposal are at times
violated by their own children and relatives. It is important that protection is
available to older persons. The introduction of special provisions in IPC to
protect older persons from domestic violence will be considered and
machinery provided to attend all such cases promptly. Tenancy legislation will
be reviewed so that the rights of occupancy of older persons are restored
speedily. Voluntary organizations and associations of older persons will be
assisted to provide protective services and help to senior citizens through
helpline services, legal aid and other measures.

Police will be directed to keep a friendly vigil on older couples or old single
persons living alone and promote mechanisms of interaction with
neighbourhood associations. Information and advice will be made available to
older persons on the importance of keeping contacts on phone with relatives,
friends and neighbours and on precautions to be taken on matters such as
24

prevention of unauthorized entry, hiring of domestic help, visits of repair and

maintenance persons, vendors and others, and the handling of cash and
valuables.

(E) Other Areas of Action

There are various other areas which would need affirmative action of the State
to ensure that policies and programmes reflect sensitivity to older persons.
Among these are issue of identity cards by the administration; fare
concessions in all modes of travel; preference in reservation of seats and
earmarking of seats in local public transport; modifications in designs of
public transport vehicles for easy entry and exit; strict enforcement of traffic
discipline at zebra crossings to facilitate older persons to cross streets; priority
in gas and telephone connections and in fault repairs; removal of physical
barriers to facilitate easy movement, concessions in entrance fees in leisure
and entertainment facilities: art and cultural centres and places of tourist
interest. Speedy disposal of complaints of older persons relating to fraudulent
dealings, cheating and other matters will go a long way in providing relief to
them. Machinery for achieving this objective will be put in place.

Issues pertaining to older persons will be highlighted every year on the

National Older Persons Day. The year 2000 will be declared as the National
Year for Older Persons. Activities during the year will be planned and
executed with the participation of different organizations. Facilities,
concessions and reliefs given to older persons by the Central and State
governments and the agencies will be complied, updated at regular intervals
and made available to associations of older persons for wide dissemination.

(a) Non-Governmental Organisations

The State alone cannot provide all the services needed by older persons.
Private sector agencies cater to a rather small paying segment of the
population. The National Policy recognizes the NGO sector as a very
important institutional mechanism to provide user friendly affordable services
to complement the endeavours of the State in this direction. Voluntary effort
25

will be promoted and supported in a big way and efforts made to remedy the
current uneven spread both within a state and between states. There will be
continuous dialogue and communication with NGOs on ageing issues and on
services to be provided. Networking, exchange of information and interactions
among NGOs will be facilitated. Opportunities will be provided for orientation
and training of manpower. Transparency, accountability, simplification of
procedures and timely release of grants to voluntary organizations will ensure
better services. The grant-in-aid policy will provide incentives to encourage
organization to raise their own resources and not become dependent only on
government funding for providing services on a sustainable basis. Trusts,
charities, religious and other endowments will be encouraged to expand their
areas of concern to provide services to the elderly by involving them on
ageing issues.

Older persons will be encouraged to organize themselves to provide services

to fellow senior citizens thereby making use of their professional knowledge,
expertise and contacts. Initiatives taken by them in advocacy, mobilization of
public opinion, raising of resources and community work will be supported.
Support will be provided for setting up volunteer programmes which will
mobilize the participation of older persons and others in community affairs,
interact with the elders and help them with their problems. Volunteers will be
provided opportunities for training and orientation on handling problems of
the elderly and kept abreast of developments in the field to promote active
ageing. Volunteers will be encouraged to assist the home bound elderly,
particularly frail and elderly women and help them to overcome loneliness.
Trade unions, employers organizations and professional bodies will be
approached to organize sensitivity programmes for their members on ageing
issues, and promote and organize services for superannuated workers.

(b)Realising the Potential

The National Policy recognizes that 60+ phase of life is a huge untapped
resource. Facilities will be made available so that this potential is realized and
individuals are enabled to make the appropriate choices. Older persons,
particularly women, perform useful but unsung roles in the household. Efforts
26

will be made to make family members appreciate and respect the contribution
of older persons in the running of the household specially when women, too,
are working outside the home. Special programmes will be designed and
disseminated through the media targeted at older persons so that they can
enrich and update their knowledge, integrate tradition with contemporary
needs and transmit more effectively socio-cultural heritage to the
grandchildren.

(c) Family
Family is the most cherished social institution in India and the most vital nonformal social security for the old. Most older persons stay with one or more of
their children, particularly when independent living is no longer feasible. It is
for them the most preferred living arrangement and also the most emotionally
satisfying. It is important that the familial support system continues to be
functional and the ability of the family to discharge its caring responsibilities
is strengthened through support services.

Programmes will be developed to promote family values, sensitise the young

on the necessity and desirability of inter-generational bonding and continuity
and the desirability of meeting filial obligations. Values of caring and sharing
need to be reinforced. Society will need to be sensitized to accept the role of
married daughters in sharing the responsibility of supporting older parents in
the light of changing context where parents have only one or two children, in
some situations only daughter. This would require some adjustment and
changes in perceptions of in-laws in regard to sharing of caring responsibilities
by sons and daughters as a corollary to equal rights of inheritance and the
greater emotional attachment that daughters have with their parents.

State policies will encourage children to co-reside with their parents by

providing tax relief, allowing rebates for medical expenses and giving
preference in the allotment of houses, persons will be encouraged to go in for
long term savings instruments and health insurance during their earning days
so that financial load on families can be eased. NGOs will be encouraged and
assisted to provide services which reach out to older persons in the home or in
27

the community. Short term stay-in facilities for older persons will be
supported so that families can get some relief when they go out. Counselling
services will be strengthened to resolve inter-familial stresses.

(d) Research
The importance of a good data base on older persons is recognised. Research
activity on ageing will require to be strengthened. Universities, medical
colleges and research institutions will be assisted to set up centres for
gerontological studies and geriatrics. Corporate bodies, Banks, Trusts and
Endowments will be requested to institute Chairs in Universities and medical
colleges in gerontology and geriatrics. Funding support will be provided to
academic bodies for research projects on ageing. Superannuated scientists will
be assisted so that their professional knowledge can be utilized. An
interdisciplinary coordinating body on research will be set up. Data collecting
agencies will be requested to have a separate age category 60 years and above.
Professional associations of gerontologists will be assisted to strengthen
research activity, disseminate research findings and provide a platform for
dialogue, discussion, debate and exchange of information.

The necessity of a national institute of research, training and documentation is

recognised. Assistance will be given for setting up resource centres in different
parts of the country.

(e) Training of Manpower

The policy recognizes the importance of trained manpower. Medical colleges
will be assisted to offer specialization in geriatrics. Training institutions for
nurses and for the paramedical personnel need to introduce specific courses on
geriatric care in their educational and training curriculum. Inservice training
centres will be strengthened to take up orientation courses on geriatric care.
Assistance will be provided for development of curriculum and course
material. Schools of Social Work and University Departments need to give
more attention in their organization of services for them. Facilities will be
provided and assistance given for training and orientation of personnel of non-

28

governmental organizations providing services to older persons. Exchange of

training personnel will be facilitated.

Assistance will be given for development and organization of sensitization

programmes on ageing for legislative, judicial and executive wings at different
levels.

(f) Media
The National Policy recognizes that media have a very important role to play
in highlighting the changing situation of older persons and in identifying
emerging issues and areas of action. Creative use of media can promote the
concept of active ageing and help dispel stereotypes and negative images
about this stage of the life cycle. Media can also help to strengthen intergeneration bonds and provide individuals, families and groups with
information and educational material which will give better understanding of
the ageing process and of ways to handle problems as they arise.

The Policy aims to involve mass media as well as informal and traditional
communication channels on ageing issues. It will be necessary to provide
opportunities to media personnel to have access to information apart from
their own independent sources of information and reporting of field situations.
Their participation in orientation programmes on ageing will be facilitated.
Opportunities will be extended for greater interaction between media
personnel and persons active in the field of ageing.

29

CHAPTER NO :- 5 AVAILABLE SUPPORT

SERVICES
(A) National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP)
The National Social Assistance Programme came into effect from 15th
August, 1995. NSAP is a social assistance programme for the poor households
and represents a significant step towards the fulfillment of the Directive
Principles enshrined in Article 41 and 42 of the Constitution of India,
recognizing concurrent responsibility of the Central and State Governments in
the matter.

(B) The National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS)

The Scheme covers older persons/destitutes having little or no regular means
of subsistence from his/her own source of income or through financial support
from family members or other sources. The age of applicant must be 65 years
or above. At present 50% of the older persons under Below Poverty Line
(BPL) destitutes are covered under NOAPS. The Central Government
contributes Rs.200/- per month per beneficiary. The State (Provincial)
Governments are advised to add matching amount or more as their
contribution in the federal set-up. During the Tenth Five Year Plan (2002
07) a total of 110,793,860 elderly were covered and US $ 1002.20 million
approximately was incurred on this count.

(C) Annapurna Scheme

Annapurna Scheme covers all the other elderly below poverty line who are not
covered under the NOAPS. A provision of 10 k.gs. of rice or wheat is
provided to the needy elderly. Under the scheme US $ 56 million was incurred
and 43,03,491 elderly were covered in tenth plan (2002-07)

30

(D) Concessions/Tax Rebate/Other Incentives

Presently persons of 60 years of age are entitled for 30% concessions in train
fare in all classes. There are different airlines providing 45% to 50%
concession in air journey to senior citizens.

Older persons who are above 65 years of age also enjoy income tax rebate
upto 15,000 of actual tax with provision for deduction of Rs.20,000 spent on
account of medical insurance premium and Rs.40,000 spent on account of
medical treatment from taxable income. Senior citizens are exempted from
Income Tax upto 1.95 lakh as per the union Annual Budget, 2007.

Banks are providing 0.5% -1% additional interest to older persons of 65 years
and above on fixed deposit. The public facilities for the elderly are initiated by
the Government which include reservation of seats for elderly in the public
transport, railways and airways etc.

(E) Insurance Coverage

Some of the public sector insurance companies provide life insurance
coverage upto 75 years of age and many private insurance companies have 55
years as the last entry age. The Insurance Policy Schemes announced for older
persons include Jeevan Dhara (18-65 years), Jeevan Akshay (30-75 years),
Jeevan Suraksha (25-60 years), Senior Citizen Unit Plan (18-54 years). In
addition, Health Insurance Schemes covering Mediclaim Policy and other
individual and Group Mediclaim Policies are also offered by Nationalized as
well as private insurance companies. The government is taking steps to
enforce a uniform policy on all Insurance Companies as regards entry age of
Senior Citizens.

The government has launched a Reverse Mortgage System for senior citizens
to extract value out of their property and lead a hassle free life by securing a
regular income as loan against their existing property.

31

(F) Integrated Programmes for Older Persons

Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India is
implementing an Integrated Programme for Older Persons with an aim to
empower and improve the quality of life of older persons. The basic thrust of
the programme is on older persons of 60 years and above particularly the
infirm, destitute and widows. Under the scheme, financial assistance is
provided

to

Non-Governmental

Organizations,

Autonomous

Bodies,

Educational Institutions, Cooperative Societies, etc., up to 90 per cent of the

project cost
for setting up and maintenance of Day Care Centres, Mobile Medi-care Units,
Old Age Homes and Non-Institutional Service Centres. During the Tenth Five
Year plan, Ministry provided financial assistance to voluntary organizations to
the tune of US $ 18.6 million.

(G) Construction of Old Age Homes

The scheme for Assistance to construction of Old Age Homes provides one
time grant to Local Bodies, NGOs etc. for construction of Old Age Homes or
Multi-Service Centres for older persons. The Ministry also incurred an
expenditure of US $ 70,000 for construction of Old Age Homes during Tenth
FiveYear Plan.

(H) Health Security

Growing old is also marked by failing health and advancing age may bring
with it enumberable health complications. Restricted physical mobility
coupled with crippled health makes it difficult for older persons to access the
health facilities if they do not enjoy the support of the family or have a care
institution within their easy access. Realizing the real situation wherein the
older persons live, Para 36 of the National Policy envisages covering of health
insurance and financial security towards essential medical care and affordable
treatment process.

32

Some of the initiatives by the Government is enabling a separate

counters/O.P.D. in hospitals and free medical services in Central Government
Health Scheme, Government Hospitals to facilitate easy accessibility to the
elderly including Geriatric Units in the Hospitals.

(I) Care of Alzheimers Disease and other Dementias

Dementia due to Alzheimers disease and other causes is one of the most
serious degenerative diseases that affects the older persons. The loss of
memory with advancing age is a common phenomenon. However, dementia,
which is a progressive disease of the brain, affects memory, personality and
intellect. Of all the dementia, Alzheimers disease is the commonest and the
severest.

Many of the Government and public hospitals have started Memory Clinics,
Mental Health Programmes to facilitate proper diagnosis of Dementia to
enable slowing down the process and preparing the care-givers and the family
to manage Alzheimers and Dementia Care . The National Institute of Social
Defence under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has initiated
training of care-givers and functionaries as a special initiative on the centenary
of Alzheimers .

33

CHAPTER NO:- 6.PROTECTION OF LIFE

AND PROPERTY
(A) A Legislation On The Anvil
The older persons become soft target for miscreants within and outside family.
Disputes relating to maintenance and property and inheritance adds to their
vulnerability. It is, therefore, necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of
Older Persons through creation of necessary infrastructure and legal
provisions.
It is felt that it is high time to back the moral obligation of children to look
after their parents in their old age by a legal obligation. India is moving ahead
to safeguard and protect the Best Interest of Older Persons through Central
Legislation, which is on the anvil, by
Ensuring Care and Protection of Older Persons within the family
Ensuring early settlement of maintenance claim through a Tribunal
Prevention of destitution by enough Institutional facilities
Provision for Old Age Homes covering all the districts to ensure that facility
to accommodate 150 needy elderly in each of them.

(B) Helpline Services for Older Persons

The State Governments. and Office of the Commissioner of Police in
collaboration with NGOs have initiated special protective measures for
safeguarding the elderly and one such innovative approach is Helpline
Services in some big cities.

(C) Training & Human Resource Development for Home Care

In the changing family context, role of professionally trained home carers
become very crucial. Therefore, preparing a frontline cadre of care givers to
ensure quality care at home as well as in the institutions is one of the
important strategies. In the wake of disintegration of Joint Family System, it is
ensured that professionally trained carers are available to meet the demand. In
34

order to meet this objective, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment

launched the Project NICE (National Initiative on Care for Elderly) through
National Institute of Social Defence (NISD) an autonomous body of the
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in 2000. The NISD organizes one
year P.G. Diploma Course and Six Month Certificate Courses under Project
NICE to meet the demand for care givers. In addition, Short Terms Courses
varying from 5 days to One Month are also organized for skill upgradation of
Service Providers working in Old Age Homes, etc. In the X Five year plan,
NISD as so far organised 85 training programme and 2535 care givers and
service providers were trained

(D) Community Training in Computer for Elderly

To foster active and productive ageing NISD has initiated a novel programme
for the older people. It aims at imparting computer training to the elderly
people. The success of a few trainings conducted earlier had left no doubt that
older people not only love to learn at the ripe age but benefit from it. This
programme is launched with a view to help Older Persons dispel their
inhibitions to adopt to new technology and take advantage of IT enabled
services like e-Ticketing, e-Banking, e-Business etc.
By demonstrating that elders can use computers comfortably. We
are countering the stereotypical mind-set and attitude on the one hand and
instill confidence among elderly on the other. This is bound to go a long way
in bringing a neglected segment of population in digital mainstream.

(E) Single Window System

Facilities to disseminate information on
various concessions/reservations/rebates provided to senior citizens by
different Ministries of the Government of India is placed on the website of the
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. NISD has also taken such
initiatives by developing a User Friendly Document on Geriatric Care. Which
is available on www.nisd.gov.in The information is also disseminated to the
elderly through Helpline Services. Some of the NGOs such as Helpage India
have also brought out Senior Citizens Guide.
35

(F) Voluntary Bureau of Elderly

Volunteers Bureau of Elderly is a network of elderly who could be available
for different kinds of services on demand. The International Longevity Centre,
Pune an NGO working for welfare of elderly has successfully used this
concept over the years for gainful engagement of elderly post-retirement. The
NISD in collaboration with them organized Workshops to showcase the
successful models of Government and NGO interventions including the
volunteers Bureau for winder replication and laying thrust on the concept of
volunteerism, inter-generational bonding and successful experiences sharing.

(G) Inter-Generational Bonding

Bridging the intergenerational gap is another innovative project has been pilot
tested by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment The programme
would be carried out for school children by creating awareness and sensitizing
them on the issue.

(H) Innovative public training

Creating broader awareness of the issues, available services, rights and
redressal mechanisms are an important means to create an elderly friendly
environment. NISD has taken it up in a serious manner and had developed a
number of video spots to be aired on popular TV channels. It has developed an
innovative do-it-yourself publicity material like an interesting cataract
awareness wall hanging. In addition, there are other useful publications and
exhibits giving latest information about schemes, concessions, rights and
available services for the elderly people.

36

CHAPTER NO :- 7
DESIGNING A QUESTIONNAIRE

1) What Is Your Self Introduction?

2) What Is Your Family Background?
3) What Is Your Hobbies?
4) Which Type Of Work You Like In This Old Age Home?
5) What Is Your Relationship Between Your Families?
6) What Happen You Come Here?
7) What Problem Face You In Socially?
8) What Is Your Economical Problem?
9) Who Can Give Money & Other Necessity Goods?
10) How You Can Manage Your Day Today Life?
11) How to Celebration in Festivals & Other Days?
12) You can go In Your Hometown to Celebrate Function?
13) What Is Your Physical Condition?
14) What Problem Face You in Phi ally?
15) What Is Your Health Problem?
16) Here Is Hospital Facility Is Available?
17) Who Can Provide Your Health Treatment?
18) Who Can Provide Medicine Facility For You?
19) What Type Food Is Given For You In Dinner?
20) You can satisfy Available Dinner for Given You?
21) What Type of Atmosphere Here?
22) What Is Your Exception about Facility Provide For You?
23) What Is Your Financial Condition?
24) Who Is Support To You In Finance?
25) Which Charity Are Support You In Finance?
26) They Properly Help You or Not?
27) You Enjoy This Home or Not?
28) What Is Demand From This Old Age Home?
29) This Youre Demand Are Fulfill or Not?
30) Any Problem to U at Time of This Interview?

37

CHAPTER

NO:-8.CONCLUSION

AND

SUGGESTIONS
In the consumer world of today, affection is actually dying. Families are
shattering. Human values and responsibilities are neglected. Seeking pleasure
and carefree life at any cost is the growing trend of modern life. The
increasing number of old age homes reveals clearly the death of human heart.

Vicissitudes of life have contributed to the misery of elders with none to

depend on, no means of income, no emotional security making them destitute
with a question, about how to carry on with their lives. The growing
intolerance among youth, coupled with their inability to adjust with the
elderly.

The fading joint family system in India and other innumerable factors have
given rise to west-inspired phenomena of old age homes. Surprising cost of
living and scanty return on savings have almost pushed these senior citizens
on roads. Such an act has triggered the security net of the helpless, which has
almost vanished in many states in India with Kerala topping the list. They
have started walking out of their own home in search of a journey that
promises peace, joy and celebration of life with a group of people who share
the same boat of life (the wrecked one). However not may rather none of them
receive it. Young people with vigor and strength forget that its not too late for
them to be in the same shoes. Its just one life that we all have,why can't we be
a support to the needy who is not a stranger? Why cant we build a world of
love that shelters all, irrespective of age? Why can't life just begin after
retirement, than end?

If we respect the one who has moulded you into a fine being, we should then
just hold their hand and lead them straight into your home. They don't need
your money or luxury, they just need a shoulder to lean. Help them lead the
last few days of their life that doesn't trigger loneliness.

38

CHAPTER NO:-9.BIBLIOGRAPHY
(A) Books Referred
Old Age Homes In India Nirupama Narayanan
Ageing and India K.C.Karthik

(B) Newspapers Referred

The Times of India
The Hindu
Maharashtra Times

(C) Websites Referred

www.legalserviceindia.com
www.growingindia.com
www.childfuture.in

39