ABSTRACT
Most literature in the field of resilience focuses on studying resilience in children and youth. Comparatively, lesser studies emphasize the importance of resilience in old age. This chapter attempts to understand resilience from a developmental perspective and focuses on resilience in the old age as it can form an integral part of successful aging. When we talk about resilience, it is also imperative to discuss about the risks and vulnerabilities which this population faces. Following this discussion, the various approaches to successful aging and factors contributing to resilience among the elderly have been deliberated in this chapter. In the old age, as individuals reach the stage of retirement, they start being reflective of their lives. This phase of human life is just as crucial as any other developmental milestone, as the changes in lifestyle are profound. Changes in vocation, retirement, becoming grandparents, living off savings, losing spouse and/or friends and relatives—all such major happenings in life generally follow the retirement period. In many cases, without proper amenities and facilities, care of the elderly becomes an issue of major concern. At times, older adults depend on a caregiver, especially in Indian setting where a collectivistic social style is followed. Keeping this in view, the Indian scenario of the aging population has been discussed. Modernization, especially in the technological front has changed things rapidly. This chapter also tries to find out how the elderly population has coped with this change. Finally, few of the existing policies and laws which protect the interest of the elderly are discussed along with further ideas which might be implemented for the Indian elderly to help them lead a better life and age successfully.
