Eldercare Issues in China and India

This book explores elder care in China and India, comparing the two countries and highlighting the key issues facing them as they develop rapidly. It focuses on caregiving within families and care homes, and the impact on quality of life and the experience of caregiving for both caregivers and the aged.

Format: Hardback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The contributors to this book present comprehensive case studies of elder care in China and India, offering insightful comparisons between the two nations. By examining the unique challenges and opportunities faced by China and India as they rapidly develop, the book sheds light on some of the critical issues confronting these two largest Asian countries.

Caring for the elderly poses a significant challenge for all countries, particularly in rapidly developing economies. While development brings about increased life expectancy, it often conflicts with long-standing cultural norms emphasizing family-based care and filial piety. This dynamic creates a complex web of challenges that require a multifaceted understanding.

The contributors to this book employ a range of methodological and conceptual approaches to explore the complexities of elder care in India and China. They focus specifically on caregiving within families and care homes, examining the impact these environments have on the quality of life for both caregivers and the elderly individuals they care for. Through their detailed analysis, the contributors provide a comprehensive understanding of the issues surrounding elder care in these two countries.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of families in providing elder care. In many cultures, families are expected to take on the responsibility of caring for their elderly members, often at the expense of their own careers and personal well-being. However, the increasing demands of modern life and the rising cost of healthcare have made it challenging for families to provide adequate care. The contributors highlight the challenges faced by caregivers, including physical and emotional strain, financial burdens, and social isolation. They also explore the impact of caregiving on the elderly individuals, including feelings of loneliness, depression, and a loss of independence.

At the same time, the book recognizes the growing importance of care homes in providing elder care in China and India. As the population ages, the demand for specialized care facilities has increased, particularly in urban areas. Care homes offer a range of services, including medical care, nursing, and social activities, that can help elderly individuals maintain their quality of life. However, concerns have been raised about the quality of care provided in care homes, including issues related to staffing, training, and patient-centered care.

The contributors to this book offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing elder care in China and India. They highlight the need for policymakers, healthcare providers, and families to work together to develop comprehensive policies and programs that support elder care. They also emphasize the importance of promoting intergenerational relationships and fostering a culture of care and respect for the elderly.

In conclusion, this book is an invaluable resource for scholars and students of gerontology and aging in Asia. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing elder care in China and India, offering insights that will be of great interest to scholars with a broader interest in global trends in caregiving. By examining the experiences of caregivers and the elderly individuals they care for, the book sheds light on the complex dynamics of elder care and highlights the need for innovative solutions and policies to address this growing societal issue.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032183794