A Sociological Study on Young Women Perception Towards Their Own Elderly Care in Chennai

Tamil Nadu has one of India’s highest elderly populations, reflecting the country’s transition towards an ageing society. Urbanization, modernization, and globalization have transformed traditional joint families into nuclear households, accompanied by growing individualistic values. Against this backdrop, this study analyses young women’s perceptions of their own old-age care. Conducted in Chennai with 50 respondents, the study examines their socio-economic and demographic profile, perceptions of old-age care, and expectations regarding governmental policies and support systems. It explores contemporary attitudes towards ageing, dependence, institutional care, financial security, and state responsibility. Preliminary findings indicate a growing preference for financial independence, health insurance, pension security, and state-supported elderly healthcare services, alongside cautious acceptance of institutional care. However, participants demonstrated limited awareness of existing senior-citizen policies. Ambivalence regarding dependence on children persists, reflecting tensions between traditional familial expectations and modern aspirations. The study offers insights into emerging expectations and future policy demands concerning old-age welfare and elderly care services.