Role of Religion in Caring the Elderly:Cultural Perspectives

Ageing is a universal phenomenon and it is a process of life. It starts from birth and covers the whole life span of a person. It is inevitable in the life of every individual usually people above sixty are considered to be aged. But nowadays they are known as senior citizens, like other stages in the life span, old age is characterized by certain physical, mental and psychological changes. In old age physical strength deteriorates, sight decreases, mental stability diminishes and financial situation become shaky. It is only for a few, old age proves to be a stage of contentment and satisfaction. 

Religion plays great role in the formation of conscience of people. In fact, up to a certain extent, it regulates the life of the people. Each religion has its own principles and ideas regarding family, the dignity of human being and role of family. In order to understand the great potentials of the elderly it is good to see the message in the Holy Scriptures like the Bible, the Quran and the Vedas. Only in the light of this, we can fathom the spiritual and moral dimensions of this stage of life.

The present study intends to understand the role played by different religions in caring the elderly in India.