International Journal of Contemporary Research in Multidisciplinary

Abstract:

With respect to India, society emphasizes a collectivistic culture. Thus, the harbingers of a family, who are senior citizens (aged 60 and above for the purpose of this paper), become an integral part of life. The treatment of these individuals can thus have repercussions on different domains of their own lives, such as their physical and emotional health. The present paper aims to get a better understanding of the apparent similarities and differences among elderly individuals, both living in old age homes and with their own families in their own homes. These similarities and differences are looked at through the lens of the treatment of the individuals, respectively: lifestyles, conflicts, hobbies, emotional regulation, etc. The sample for the study consisted of 12 participants (3 males and 9 females) in the age range of 60 and above. Semi-structured interviews were developed in the current study and were thus administered to the 12 consenting participants, which consisted of both participants living in Old Age Homes (OAH) and participants living with their own families in their own homes. This administration was conducted through a primary data source, which was in-person interviews. Over half of the participants living in the Old Age Home claimed to have experienced better living facilities and received better treatment and care with respect to their physical and emotional health than those living in their own homes with their own families. Similarly, almost all participants living in their own homes with their own families claimed to be more independent and have a wider variety of lifestyle options than the participants living in old-age homes. Findings from the paper can allow future researchers to develop interventions aimed at fostering better relations between the elderly and their families at home.

Keywords:

Old Age Home (OAH), Residence, Emotional Regulation, Satisfaction, Living environment

Aim/Objectives

Methods