Introduction

The world is witnessing a scenario of rapidly changing demographic conditions, predominantly in developing countries. The resulting slowdown in the growth of the number of children per couple along with the steady increase in the number of elderly persons has a direct bearing on both intergenerational and intragenerational equity and solidarity, which constitute the basic foundations of human society. Population ageing results mainly from reduction of fertility, a phenomenon that has become virtually universal. Since 1950, the proportion of old persons in the total population has been rising steadily, from 8 per cent in 1950 to 11 per cent in 2007, and it is estimated to reach 22 per cent in 2050 (United Nations (UN), 2007). Ageing will also have an impact on economic growth, via savings, investment, consumption, labour market behaviour, pensions, taxation and intergenerational transfers. In the social sphere, this phenomenon influences family composition and living arrangements, demand for housing and migration, and the need for health care services. On the political front, population ageing may shape voting patterns and political representation (UN, 2007). The recent emphasis on studies on elderly persons in the developing world is attributed to their increasing numbers and deteriorating living conditions in the later years of life. While increasing numbers are attributed to demographic transition, deteriorating social and economic conditions are a result of the fast eroding traditional family system in the wake of rapid modernization, internal and international migration and urbanization.