Longevity of life expectancy gave rise to a steadily increasing number and proportion of the aged population in the society. Modernization process has initiated and altered many social values and traditions. In India, as else where, ageing has become a social problem due to the fundamental changes in the social structure. In the new context, the traditional joint family system is gradually disintegrating resulting in the break-up of bonds of affection and responsibility among the children towards their parents and aged.
Majority of aged have retired, not able to work, unemployed and depending on others in all spheres of life. In view of the changed circumstances i.e., those who earn had a face value, both inside and outside of the house, now had lost their glory and are depending and have become unwanted. The aged has to face not only psychological and social problems but also economic problems. Among the above problems, economic problems were found to be more crucial at it relates to the satisfaction of their basic needs. The economic security of the aged will play a predominant role in solving the other socio-psychological problems. Keeping the above backdrop, the present book is compilation of 20 papers authored by known scholars in the area. The papers have been arranged in four sections i.e., status, needs, studies on ageing and strategies. The book will be useful for the students, functionaries working in the area of ageing, researchers, policy-makers and administrators. |
