Study of the health and socio-economic conditions of the elderly.

Abstract

This study was undertaken to obtain demographic and socioeconomic data and particulars relating to morbidity,persomal care capacity,utilization of health services, habits,recreation and attitudes of old people in this study,there were an almost equal number of males and females except in the 55-59 years old age group where females constituted 58.2 per cent.It is suggested that: Geriatric health care be incorperated into the primary health care (PHC) system.The PHC workers should carry out.education screening and referels,monitoring of chronically ill patients,training of patients or relations to carry out simple tests like testing urine for sugar in diabetics,administration of insulin,supervision of drug administration etc.Geriatric clinics be established at secondary and tertiary levels of the primary health care structure. Geriatric wards should be established at tertiary level. Long term care services be established involving,screening rehabilitation assisting the elders to cope with impairment and permanant residental or out patient services as well as assistance in their homes.The criterian for retirement should not be only the age.Part time employment should be provided to those who are capable of working.