ABSTRACT
One of the myths of the modern age is the persistent stereotyped image of huge numbers of aged people vegetating in institutions. It has already been commented upon that there is an overwhelming majority who live in the community, either alone or with relatives. Only five to six per cent of over 65-year-olds live in residential or hospital accommodation, and of the rest, about 34 per cent live alone, 52 per cent with a spouse, and 8 per cent with other people. While it is true that the Western system has, over recent years, stressed independence and encouraged older individuals to make use of services outside the family as and when necessary, and to continue living alone, it is also true that even those who do live alone are usually in regular contact with their relatives (Shanas et al., 1968). The primary caregiver tends to be the spouse, or, in the case of widowed or unmarried elderly people, the closest female relative — most commonly a daughter or sister.
