LIVING ARRANGEMENTS OF THE ELDERLY : AVAILABLE EVIDENCE

Abstract

The recent demographic and socio-economic changes occurring in the developing economies of Asia have precipitated the need for a systematic study on the overall welfare of the elderly. Traditional familial support structures are perceived to be eroding at a time when the populations are ageing at a rapid rate. Given that the family is the primary caregiver in Asia, it is important that we understand the changes occurring within the family structure. This thesis is a study of the economic, material and emotional well-being of the Asian elderly through their actual living arrangements.

Through the living arrangements, the principal determinant of the elderly's welfare i.e. intergenerational transfers, can be assessed. Such transfers exist in two dimensions: intra-family transfers and public transfers. Four models of intra-family transfers are used to assess both the net flow of transfers between generations and the underlying motivations for such supports. Available evidence indicate that the Asian family remains the main support mechanism for the elderly. Despite changes within the family structure, the inherent values of familial support appear to be strong.

Public transfers for the Asian elderly have traditionally been minimal as states are often confined by limited resources and conflicting goals of development. With the enduring nature of the family, there is a function for the state in complementation to the family. By designing an appropriate mix of policies and programmes to assist but not supplant the traditional role of the family, the state would lessen the burden on the family in the face of social changes.