摘要：The last century has witnessed a rapid increase in the population of the elderly people in the developed and
industrialized countries. This phenomenon is not restricted to the western world only, but many countries such as ours are
now feeling the impact of this transaction. This situation could be attributed to a combination of factors such as increase
in age, longevity and decreased death rates due to advancement in the field of medicine, improvement of life expectancy
at birth, and enhancement in the average span of life. India ranks 4th in terms of absolute size of elderly population .The
country is not adequately equipped to look after their special health needs and the changing traditional value system. A
feeling is now growing among the aged persons that the attitude of the younger generation towards them is not as desired.
In the above context, a study was conducted to understand the feeling of the elderly residing in the old age homes and
within the family setup in Jammu. The sample of elderly women was selected using the ¡°Purposive sampling¡± technique
to select 30 elderly women from the old age home as well as a similar number from the family setups. The data was
collected using a specially designed Interview schedule and observation technique through a house- to-house survey for
those residing in the families. Non-working status of these women and above 60 years of age was criteria for sample
selection. Results of the study revealed that most of the elderly felt the attitude of the younger generation is unsatisfactory
towards them especially those who were in old age homes in terms of getting respect, love and affection from the family
members instead they were considered as burden for others. Women living in the families had a positive attitude towards
old age. The social relationship of the elderly women living in families and those living in old age home also differed.
Noticeably; there was a fall in the overall efficiency, sociability, degree of involvement in work and hobbies. On the other
hand, better social relations were maintained by the family dwellers because they had regular interaction, expressions of
feelings and support from the family.
关键词：Elderly. Old Age Home. Family. Modernization. Urbanization. Life Expectancy
