Elder care and living arrangement in Kerala

Abstract

Kerala is an ageing society wherein population ageing is proceeding at a very fast pace. Given the context of ageing in Kerala, the living arrangements of the elderly have an important role, particularly when it comes to elder care. Using the Kerala Aging Survey 2013, this paper evaluates the scenario of family care for the elderly, the perception of elderly about their care, association between health patterns and living arrangements and the determinants of living arrangements of the elderly. Bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were used for the analysis. The findings of the study revealed that living arrangements of the elderly play an important role in elderly care. Among those who live with partners, more than 45% were of the view that it is the duty of children to take care of their parents in old age. More than 43% of the elderly who live with their partner consider living with their partner as the best option. Among those who live with married sons, nearly 60% perceived that such a life is best for them. Among those who stayed with sons and daughters, the share of those who need special care is comparatively greater. Living arrangements determine the source of care provision when special care is required. Results of the regression analysis showed that compared to female elderly, male elderly are less likely to live alone. Further, it was found that compared to female elderly, male elderly are more likely to live with a daughter.