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VOL. 7, ISSUE 5 (2025)
Problems of elderly widows living in an old age home: Evidence from Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh
Authors
Mohd Shahbaz Khan, Sameena, Md Abdul Mutallib Khan
Abstract
Elderly widows constitute one of the most vulnerable sections of
India’s ageing population due to the intersection of gender, age, widowhood,
and declining family support. Despite the growing number of old age homes in
India, limited empirical research has focused specifically on the lived
experiences of elderly widows residing in institutional care. This study
examines the social, economic, physical, and psychological problems faced by
elderly widows living in an old age home in Aligarh district of Uttar Pradesh.
Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through
semi-structured interviews with twelve elderly widows residing in a women’s old
age home managed by a non-governmental organization. The findings reveal
persistent issues of financial insecurity, health-related challenges,
loneliness, social isolation, and experiences of neglect, abandonment, and
abuse prior to institutionalisation. The old age home provides basic shelter,
food, and care, however, emotional deprivation and inadequate access to
government welfare schemes remain major concerns. The study emphasizes the need
for gender-sensitive ageing policies, improved implementation of widow-specific
welfare schemes, and a comprehensive support system that ensures dignity and
well-being in later life. The findings contribute to gerontological and
sociological debates on ageing, widowhood, and institutional care in India.
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Pages:151-157
How to cite this article:
Mohd Shahbaz Khan, Sameena, Md Abdul Mutallib Khan "Problems of elderly widows living in an old age home: Evidence from Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh". International Journal of Social Science and Humanities, Vol 7, Issue 5, 2025, Pages 151-157
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