Old Age Homes

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OLD AGE HOMES
If taking people for a ride is deplorable, it is more so when those being ripped off are dependents. The elderly and aged, for instance. A look at some of the homes for the aged that have mushroomed around Bangalore shows that one needs to make careful investigations and check details first, before choosing one, either for oneself or for one's parents. Thanks to factors like rising longevity, the disappearance of the extended family pattern of living, and children moving away as NRIs, there is a rising demand for old age homes. An information directory brought out by the city's Elders Helpline lists over 60 such homes, with charges ranging widely from Rs 700 to Rs 3,500 per month (and deposits of anything from Rs 10,000 to over one lakh and forty thousand). Some are also free, but in spite of the proliferation of homes for the aged we don't yet have any regulatory body or legislation to protect the interests of those living in such places. With the result that there are reports of shady operators who collect money but do not provide proper facilities. At least one such operator is reported to have moved from one place to another, setting up ‘homes' and making money out of the enterprise at the expense of the aged.
What is the relevance of Old Age Homes in India ?
Many factors have contributed to the alienation of the elders.
Migration of young couples from the rural areas to cities in search of better employment opportunities to fend for themselves.
Elders who have been in control of the household for a long time are unwilling to give up the responsiblity to their children.
Youngsters on their part are sometimes resentful of the attitude of their parents.
Many youngsters have moved to places far away from their native homes and in the recent past to many countries abroad. So even if they want to they cannot accomodate their parents in their own homes.
Elders are sometimes too incapaciated or unwell to look after themselves or get medical care especially in an emergency.
All these have made the old age homes seem more relevant in the Indian context than ever before.
What are the types of Old Age Homes in India ?
There are two types of Old Age Homes in India . One is the "Free" type which cares for the destitute old people who have no one else to care for them. They are given shelter, food, clothing and medical care. The second type is the "Paid" home where care is provided for a fee. Nowadays, such "Retirement" homes have become very popular in India and they are well worth considering.
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