Traditional system of taking care of old people within the family is slowly breaking down, partly as a result of rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes which have widened the gap between young and old. Older people are increasingly isolated, often living alone, in poverty and in poor health. Even those who live with their families find that they receive little care, support or respect. Due to these increasing aged people, Nepal has been developed several old aged homes in recent years to rehabilitate the elderly people for their welfare.
The Pashupatinath Bridhashram (old home) is the largest old home in Katmandu run by the government so it's budget is limited; it is congested, short-staffed and shows signs of mismanagement. There are 320 residents and 190 of them are women. For some it is a depressing scene to see people at the end of life, away from family, living or rather dying in the Briddhasram. But for many, this is a place where they seek refuge from an ever speeding life and feel satisfied enough simply helping and sharing talk with the older citizens.
Kathmandu, September 2010
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