Living Arrangements and Perceptions on Old Age Assistance among Indian Older Population

This study made a critical attempt of investigating the pattern of living arrangement and perception about old age support in Indian older population by using India Human Development Survey, 2004-05 data. This is the first study of this kind, which, in addition, to living arrangement pattern of the older population, provides some insight about the expectations of current young generation about the old age assistance. Around 13 percent of elderly lived with their spouse only; only 2 percent lived single, and the rest of 85 percent elderly in India living in coresidence with children. A majority of women respondents are expecting their sons to live with them, to take care and provide financial and emotional support in their old age. This indicates that the family will continue to be a significant social institution for the care and support for the older population in India.