Perception of old age and self: A comparative study of elderly females living in community and in old age home
- Resource Type
- article
- Authors
- Shipra Singh; Nitin B Raut; Alka A Subramanyam; Ravindra Kamath; Charles Pinto; Sunitha Shanker
- Source
- Journal of Geriatric Mental Health, Vol 1, Iss 1, Pp 32-37 (2014)
- Subject
- Elderly
old age homes
perception of old age
women
Psychiatry
RC435-571
Geriatrics
RC952-954.6
- Language
- English
- ISSN
- 2348-9995
2395-3322
Aims and Objectives: To study and compare the perception of old age and self in elderly women living in community and in old age homes. Materials and Methods: By using a cross sectional study design 60 elderly females (30 each from community and old age homes) were assessed using a semi-structured proforma and an interview questionnaire. Data was qualitatively analysed and frequency computation was done. Results: The elderly women living in community had more of an attitude of ′acceptance′ towards old age and ′generativity′ was a part of ageing for them. They were found to be more satisfied with life and had better emotional support, whereas elderly in old age home perceived better instrumental support. Conclusion: Both community living and living in an old age home, have certain positive aspects. From a perspective of future policies and outreach services, it would be interesting to note the same and use best of both the worlds to provide the best for the elder in either setting.