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Traditionally, families looked after their elders in old age and sickness. With the development of modern societies, it is slowly becoming scarcer. The concept of nuclear families seems to have increased the need for care units for the aged. 

Generally, there are fewer aged care institutions in Asian countries. The younger generations still believe it is their responsibility to look after the older generation. They do not shy away from their duty, that is, most of the time. 

Governments or non-profit organizations set up establishments to offer the aged care they deserve. 

There Are Different Types Of Care Provided By Organizations: 

Aged Care

• Assisted living  

The senior citizen continues living in their home while having an assigned helper. The aid helps the elderly in their daily activities. If they require medical attention around the clock, that can be arranged as well. The intention here is to allow the person to continue living in the comfort and safety of their own home. In some cases, if the aged is fit enough to take care of themselves, they might be assigned an attendant who checks upon them from time to time. 

• Nursing homes 

These are specialized establishments that look after older people that can no longer look after themselves. Either they do not have a home, or they do not wish to live there anymore. In case of terminal illnesses or any disease, they even admit elderly patients. After hospitals, it offers the next best solution for older people. One important reminder, this is not necessarily a permanent situation. One can leave if one wants. 

• Short term care 

This kind of arrangement is for those adults who need to be taken care of for a short period. It offers care for recovering adults who need special attention and care. Sometimes, the primary caregiver needs to travel for a while. They can avail a short-term aged care for their ward.  

Some Areas That Need To Be Improved:

Aged Care

• Skilled care 

It concerns the medical part of aged care provided to the patient. There is a shortage of professionals. More initiatives to increase the number of trained professionals will be extremely helpful in improving healthcare quality.

• Social care 

Caregivers are supposed to take care of the elderly. Older adults are more prone to chronic diseases, physical injury, even bouts of forgetfulness in some cases. These are some of the factors they should focus on while providing care for the elderly 

• Insurance coverage 

Many insurance companies do not cover the expenses of elderly care entirely. Some reforms can benefit both the elderly citizens as well as their families. 

• Elder abuse 

Lack of supervision can make it very easy for the elderly to get maltreated without anyone knowing. Often, they do not have anyone to disclose their grievances. They choose to suffer quietly to avoid making a fuss.  

• Improved facilities 

The housing units and other medical equipment need to be regularly updated and monitored. Comfort and safety should be a priority in every aged care centre. 

• Social awareness 

Promoting the need to look after one's parents or older members of the family will prove beneficial in the long term. Eventually, it will lessen the need for aged care institutions. 

The Bottom Line 

As a society, taking care of people is not something one should shirk off. It is vital to point out that elderly care is not the sole responsibility of any one sector. It is the collective responsibility of the government, healthcare sector, social welfare and legal department active in the respective country. This idea extends to those who are not actively contributing to the economy.