In a study conducted by TNS India, in association with HelpAge India, 86% of the respondents in the city have said that their children cared for them in times of illness.Though notorious for its increasing cases of violence against the elderly, Delhi has surprisingly emerged as the most ‘caring’ of the four metros. Chennai has fared the worst, with only 52.7% senior citizens saying that they are cared for.The study, which concluded in May, was carried out in the metros and four other Indian cities - Lucknow, Vijaywada, Bhubaneshwar and Ahmedadbad. In all, 2,019 people above the age of 60 were interviewed, with equal representation of men and women, to understand the needs and desires of 81 million senior citizens of the country.The major issues where elders want intervention include help for health, housing and better nutrition. Those in metros particularly desire priority in government-run health and transport, while elders in non-metros want issues of negligence from relatives to be assessed. The most recommended concept was that of the senior citizens’ club. For this, the elderly expressed willingness to make a monthly contribution of Rs 125 in non-metros and Rs 1,078 in metros, on an average. Needs of elderly The study was carried out in four metros and four non-metros - Lucknow, Vijayawada, Bhubaneshwar and Ahmedabad. In all, 2,019 people above the age of 60 were interviewed, with equal representation of men and women, from different socio-economic categories and geographical areas to understand the needs and desires of 81 million senior citizens of the country. These are some of the findings:

1. 62% of the elderly were financially dependent on their children
2. Only 32% availed of pension or support of any kind  
3. Living alone due to lack of support from children is more common among females (44%) than males (37%)  
4. The proportion of elderly enjoying good health is higher in non-metros (40%) than metros (28%)  
5. 87% of the elderly do not have any health insurance  
6. Most of the elderly (72%) live with their sons and 5% live alone. Those living alone have been doing so for an average of 10 years  
7. Proportion of elderly whose health care expenses are supported by children is higher in non metros (76%) than in metros (64%)  
8. Delhi emerges as a metro with more caring children. 86% reported children cared for them in times of illness. Chennai ranks lowest with only 52.7%  
9. 50% feel insecure due to economic and health uncertainties  
10. In Chennai, 29.3% of elderly interviewed felt modernity has led to children not wanting to stay with parents, whereas in Mumbai, it was not even acknowledged as a problem
11. The major issues on which elders want intervention included social protection (35%), free medical check-ups (27%), love and respect from younger ones (23%), free public transport (11%), clubs and old age homes (8%).

To read more please visit:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/rssarticleshow/msid-3099749,prtpage-1.cms

Posted on June 12th, 2008 by Shanmuga
Filed under: News