A comparative study on perceived loneliness among home-based and institution- based elderly

Ageing is a multifaceted process that is determined not only by the passage of time, but also by certain psychological, physiological, social, economic and cultural factors. Loneliness is one of major problems elderly face. The main requirements of old people today are social, health and financial security apart from those related to psychological and emotional support, which can only be derived by family members and friends. This study is an attempt to find the loneliness experienced by elderly residing in the institution and also at home. The data was collected from 255 elderly (Institution-based=120 & home-based=135) in and around Bhopal. It was found that elderly in the institution experience more loneliness than the elderly who are staying with their family. It was also found that female elderly experience more loneliness than their male counterparts.