Geriatric Care in the Informal Settlements of Chennai City

The purpose of this research paper is to examine the concept of geriatric care among elderly residing in sub standard settlements in Chennai. The Population of the elders is a global phenomenon and it has to be studied at different paces. Though it is commonly agreed that the state is held responsible for caring the increasing older population, the private sector and individuals themselves, it is still assumed that the families should take up the major role in caring them. India is the second largest member of older persons in the world and we can boost us that we have grown much to have the great population of elderly. Our Indian society has traditional norms and values which have laid stress on showing respect and providing care for the elderly. The advents of modernization, industrialization, urbanization, occupational differentiation and growth of individual philosophy have eroded the traditional values of the elderly community. As elders are not engaged in any income, they remain open handed and expect the people to assist them. The family support and care of the elderly are unlikely to disappear in the present days, needs of the elders are expanding, remedial measures have to be taken into consideration for the future of the community. Hence, this study focuses their care and identifies their essential needs.