New vistas for the old

Old-Age Homes

 With urban space and time at a premium, the aged are left to take decisions on their future Besides regular care of the ailments that dog the ageing process, there is a need to overcome old-age blues.

 A regional survey carried out by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and Pacific, last year, came out with some startling data. The survey concluded that worldwide, the number of people aged 60 and over will increase to 2 billion by 2050.

 Up from the 600 million in 2000. And nearly half of this 2 billion will reside in Asia.

 Interestingly, most of the 60-plus group will be healthy (thanks to better medical services) in their early retirement years and will be able to participate in community activities.

 Keeping an eye on this trend, there has been a spurt in the construction of retirement villages. Mumbai-based Royal Palms has already cashed in on this social phenomenon by setting the ball rolling.

 The company