Gender Dimension of Disability

 Gender Dimension of Disability

### Unit V: Gender Dimension of Disability (9 hours)

This unit explores the gendered experiences of individuals with disabilities, with a focus on the intersectionality of gender, disability, and sexuality. It delves into the specific challenges that women with disabilities face, including violence and issues related to sexuality. The unit addresses how social, cultural, and legal frameworks shape the lived experiences of disabled women, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing their unique struggles and rights.

---

### **A. Experience of Women with Disabilities**

1. **Exclusion from Feminist Agendas**

   - **Ghai (2002)**, in *Disabled Women: An Excluded Agenda of Indian Feminism*, discusses the ways in which disabled women have been marginalized both within the feminist movement and in broader society. Feminism often overlooks the specific challenges that disabled women face, such as social isolation, economic dependency, and limited access to education and employment. Ghai argues that disabled women’s experiences need to be integrated into mainstream feminist discourse in order to build an inclusive movement that addresses the needs of all women.

   

2. **Vulnerability Without Support in Nepal**

   - **Dhungana (2006)** examines the experiences of disabled women in Nepal in *The Lives of Disabled Women in Nepal: Vulnerability Without Support*. Disabled women in Nepal often face extreme vulnerability due to the lack of social support, economic independence, and adequate healthcare. They are more likely to be excluded from educational opportunities and suffer from a lack of employment prospects, making them dependent on their families or the state. Dhungana emphasizes the need for stronger social protection systems and community support for disabled women in Nepal.

---

### **B. Violence Against Women with Disabilities**

1. **Silence and Paradox**

   - **Chenoweth (1996)**, in *Violence and Women With Disabilities: Silence and Paradox*, discusses how violence against women with disabilities is often ignored or underreported. Disabled women are more vulnerable to abuse due to their dependency on caregivers, social isolation, and the societal perception that they are weak or incapable. Chenoweth highlights the paradoxical situation where disabled women are often silenced and their abuse goes unnoticed or is dismissed as less significant.

   

2. **Domestic Violence and Disability**

   - **Mays (2006)** explores the intersection of disability and domestic violence in *Feminist Disability Theory: Domestic Violence Against Women with a Disability*. Disabled women are more likely to experience domestic violence, and they face unique barriers in seeking help, such as inaccessible shelters and services that do not cater to their specific needs. Mays calls for an expansion of feminist disability theory to address the prevalence of violence against disabled women and the need for inclusive, accessible services.

3. **CREA Research Report**

   - The **CREA (2011)** report, *Count Me In: Violence Against Disabled, Lesbian, and Sex-Working Women in Bangladesh, India, and Nepal*, highlights the compounded marginalization faced by disabled women who belong to other marginalized groups, such as lesbian and sex-working communities. The report reveals that these women face intersecting forms of violence and discrimination and calls for a more inclusive approach to addressing violence that takes into account these overlapping vulnerabilities.

---

### **C. Disability and Sexuality**

1. **Rights and Recognition of Disabled Sexuality**

   - **Shakespeare (2000)** in *Disabled Sexuality: Toward Rights and Recognition*, advocates for the recognition of the sexual rights of disabled individuals. Disabled people, particularly women, are often desexualized by society and denied the opportunity to express their sexuality freely. Shakespeare argues that sexuality is a human right and that society must recognize the sexual agency of disabled individuals and create an environment where they can experience fulfilling sexual lives without stigma.

2. **The Sociopolitical Economy of Disability and Sexuality**

   - **Shildrick (2007)**, in *Contested Pleasures: The Sociopolitical Economy of Disability and Sexuality*, explores the complex ways in which disabled sexuality is regulated and controlled. Disabled people are often seen as asexual or hypersexual, depending on societal prejudices. Shildrick discusses how these perceptions shape the sexual experiences of disabled individuals, particularly women, and emphasizes the need for policies and practices that respect the sexual autonomy of people with disabilities.

3. **Experience of Motherhood for Disabled Women**

   - **Khanal (2012)**, in *Experience of Motherhood of Disabled Women*, explores the experiences of disabled women who are mothers. Motherhood is often seen as incompatible with disability, and disabled women who become mothers face significant challenges, including societal stigma, inadequate healthcare, and a lack of support services. Khanal emphasizes that these women’s experiences must be recognized and supported, and that disability should not be seen as a barrier to motherhood.

---

### **Conclusion**

Unit V on "Gender Dimension of Disability" emphasizes the intersection of gender and disability, focusing on the unique challenges that disabled women face. It highlights their experiences of marginalization, vulnerability to violence, and the complex relationship between disability and sexuality. The readings in this unit provide insights into the ways that disabled women are excluded from feminist discourses, subjected to violence, and denied their sexual and reproductive rights. By understanding these issues, scholars and practitioners can work toward creating more inclusive policies and practices that address the specific needs of disabled women.

---

### Key Readings:

1. **Experience of Women with Disabilities**:

   - Ghai, A. (2002). Disabled Women: An Excluded Agenda of Indian Feminism.

   - Dhungana, B. M. (2006). The Lives of Disabled Women in Nepal: Vulnerability Without Support.

2. **Violence Against Women with Disabilities**:

   - Chenoweth, L. (1996). Violence and Women With Disabilities: Silence and Paradox.

   - Mays, J. M. (2006). Feminist Disability Theory: Domestic Violence Against Women with a Disability.

   - CREA (2011). Count Me In Research Report: Violence Against Disabled, Lesbian, and Sex-Working Women in Bangladesh, India, and Nepal.

3. **Disability and Sexuality**:

   - Shakespeare, T. (2000). Disabled Sexuality: Toward Rights and Recognition.

   - Shildrick, M. (2007). Contested Pleasures: The Sociopolitical Economy of Disability and Sexuality.

   - Khanal, A. N. (2012). Experience of Motherhood of Disabled Women.

Here are **top 10 potential exam questions** based on the topics from the units you've covered:

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### **Unit I: Understanding Ageing**

1. **Population dynamics**: Discuss the global and national trends in population ageing from 1950 to 2050. What are the political, economic, and social implications of these trends?

2. **Definitions of ageing**: Compare and contrast the varied definitions and applications of ageing, including the concept of active ageing and its determinants.

3. **Gerontology and geriatrics**: Outline the history of gerontology and geriatrics and discuss their significance in the study of ageing.

4. **Theoretical perspectives**: Evaluate different theoretical perspectives on the sociology of ageing. How do these perspectives contribute to understanding the ageing process in society?

---

### **Unit II: Legal Frameworks and Implementations**

5. **International frameworks on ageing**: Analyze the significance of international conferences such as the First and Second World Assemblies on Ageing, the Madrid International Plan of Action (MIPAA), and the UN Principles for Older Persons in shaping global ageing policies.

6. **National frameworks on ageing**: Assess the effectiveness of Nepal's **National Action Plan for Senior Citizens (2006)** and **Senior Citizens Act (2007)** in addressing the needs and rights of older people. How do these frameworks compare to global standards?

---

### **Unit III: Emerging Issues and Challenges of Ageing**

7. **Challenges of ageing populations**: Identify the key challenges posed by an ageing population globally and in Nepal. How do these challenges impact healthcare, social security, and economic stability?

8. **Elder abuse and violence**: Discuss the prevalence and forms of elder abuse and violence in Nepal. What legal and social measures are in place to protect older people, and how effective are they?

---

### **Unit IV: Understanding Disability**

9. **Beyond medical and social models**: Critically evaluate the limitations of both the medical and social models of disability. What alternative perspectives have emerged to better address the complexity of disability in contemporary society?

10. **Feminist disability theory**: Explain the contributions of feminist disability theory. How does it address the intersection of gender and disability, particularly in relation to body image, sexuality, and the experiences of disabled women?

---

These questions encourage both theoretical understanding and practical analysis of ageing and disability issues, helping you prepare for critical discussions and written exams.

Understanding Disability

 Understanding Disability

### Unit IV: Understanding Disability (9 hours)

This unit provides a critical understanding of disability from various perspectives, moving beyond the traditional medical and social models to explore international and national legal frameworks and feminist disability theory. It aims to deepen the understanding of disability as a complex socio-political issue and highlights the significance of inclusive approaches to disability in both global and local contexts. 

---

### **A. Beyond Medical and Social Models of Disability**

1. **Medical Model of Disability**

   - The medical model views disability as an individual problem caused by physical, sensory, or mental impairments. It emphasizes diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. From this perspective, disability is something to be "fixed" or "cured" through medical intervention. Historically, this model dominated both policy and public perception, reinforcing the idea that people with disabilities are "sick" or "abnormal."

   

2. **Social Model of Disability**

   - In contrast, the social model argues that disability is not just a medical condition but a societal construct. According to this model, the barriers that disabled people face—such as inaccessible buildings, discriminatory practices, and exclusion from societal activities—are the real sources of their disability. **Crow (1996)** in *Including All of Our Lives: Renewing the Social Model of Disability* calls for renewing and expanding this model to address a wider range of issues, such as the experiences of people with mental health disabilities and those from marginalized communities.

   - **Shakespeare & Watson (2001)** question the limitations of the social model, arguing in *The Social Model of Disability: An Outdated Ideology?* that while it has been instrumental in shifting the focus away from impairment, it does not fully address the personal experiences of disabled individuals, particularly those who deal with chronic illness or pain.

   

3. **Critique and Expansion of Disability Models**

   - Scholars like **Taleporos & McCabe (2002)**, in *Body Image and Physical Disability—Personal Perspectives*, offer an expansion of the debate by focusing on the psychological and personal aspects of living with a disability. They argue that body image and identity are crucial areas often overlooked in both the medical and social models. While the social model highlights structural barriers, it does not always account for the internal struggles disabled people face in societies that stigmatize physical differences.

---

### **B. International and National Legal Frameworks**

1. **United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD, 2006)**

   - The **UNCRPD (2006)** is a groundbreaking international legal instrument that shifts the understanding of disability from a charity-based or medical model to a human rights-based approach. It seeks to ensure that people with disabilities enjoy the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. The convention covers civil, cultural, economic, political, and social rights, and emphasizes dignity, individual autonomy, and participation in society.

   - Key principles include:

     - Respect for inherent dignity and individual autonomy.

     - Non-discrimination.

     - Full and effective participation and inclusion in society.

     - Accessibility.

     - Equality of opportunity.

     - Respect for difference and acceptance of people with disabilities as part of human diversity.

   

2. **National Legal Frameworks: Nepal**

   - In Nepal, the **Disabled People's Welfare and Protection Act and Regulation** provides a legal framework to safeguard the rights and welfare of people with disabilities. Despite these legal protections, implementation has been slow, and access to education, employment, and healthcare remains limited. The **UNICEF (2001)** report, *A Situation Analysis of Disability in Nepal*, highlights the social and institutional barriers that continue to marginalize disabled people in Nepali society.

   - The Disabled People's Welfare and Protection Act seeks to address these inequalities by mandating the state to provide appropriate services, but gaps in enforcement, awareness, and resource allocation remain critical issues.

---

### **C. Feminist Disability Theory**

1. **Integrating Disability with Feminist Theory**

   - **Garland-Thomson (2002)**, in her seminal paper *Integrating Disability, Transforming Feminist Theory*, argues for the integration of disability into feminist scholarship. She points out that disability, like gender, is socially constructed and rooted in power dynamics that reinforce norms of able-bodiedness. Feminist disability theory critiques the assumption that disability is inherently negative or undesirable, challenging societal standards of beauty, normalcy, and ability.

   - The theory builds on the idea that both women and people with disabilities experience marginalization due to their perceived departure from societal norms. It also examines how gender and disability intersect to create unique experiences of oppression for disabled women. For instance, women with disabilities often face dual discrimination in healthcare, employment, and personal relationships, as their gender and disability status compound their exclusion.

2. **Feminist Disability Studies**

   - **Garland-Thomson (2001)**, in *Reshaping, Re-thinking, Re-defining: Feminist Disability Studies*, emphasizes that disability studies and feminist theory should work together to reshape society's understanding of both disability and gender. She argues that the experiences of disabled women can offer new insights into feminist concepts such as embodiment, autonomy, and agency. For example, a feminist disability perspective might examine how the medicalization of women's bodies, particularly in areas such as reproductive health, intersects with the medicalization of disability to reinforce patriarchal and ableist norms.

   - Feminist disability theory calls for an inclusive approach that recognizes the diversity of human experiences, challenging both traditional disability models and feminist discourses that fail to account for the experiences of disabled individuals.

---

### **Conclusion**

Unit IV on "Understanding Disability" expands the scope of disability studies by moving beyond the medical and social models to explore legal frameworks and feminist perspectives. The medical and social models provide important lenses, but they are limited in capturing the full experience of disability. The human rights-based approach, as emphasized by the UNCRPD, and the feminist disability theory proposed by scholars like Garland-Thomson, provide deeper and more inclusive ways to understand and address disability.

By integrating feminist theory with disability studies, this unit highlights the intersectional challenges that disabled individuals, particularly women, face in society. It also underscores the importance of implementing both international and national legal frameworks to ensure that people with disabilities are granted equal rights and opportunities in all areas of life.

---

### Key Readings:

1. **Beyond Medical and Social Models of Disability**:

   - Crow, L. (1996). Including all of our lives: Renewing the social model of disability.

   - Shakespeare, T., & Watson, N. (2001). The social model of disability: An outdated ideology?

   - Taleporos, G., & McCabe, M. P. (2002). Body image and physical disability—personal perspectives.

2. **International and National Legal Frameworks**:

   - UNCRPD (2006). Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

   - UNICEF (2001). A situation analysis of disability in Nepal.

3. **Feminist Disability Theory**:

   - Garland-Thomson, R. (2002). Integrating disability, transforming feminist theory.

   - Garland-Thomson, R. (2001). Reshaping, re-thinking, re-defining: Feminist disability studies.

Emerging Issues and Challenges of Ageing

 Emerging Issues and Challenges of Ageing

### Unit III: Emerging Issues and Challenges of Ageing (6 hours)

This unit addresses the current and emerging issues related to ageing, focusing on the challenges of an ageing population, abuse and violence against older people, and new research agendas on ageing. It explores the complexities that come with an increasing elderly population and highlights the need for thoughtful policy responses and social awareness. Below is a detailed explanation of each section in this unit.

---

### **A. Challenges of an Ageing Population**

1. **Global Population Ageing**

   - According to the **WHO's Active Ageing: A Policy Framework (2012)**, population ageing is one of the most significant demographic trends of the 21st century. By 2050, the number of older people globally is expected to surpass the number of children, creating unprecedented social, economic, and political challenges. 

   - The transition to an ageing society presents challenges in terms of providing adequate healthcare, pension systems, social services, and infrastructure. Older adults require specific care services, which are often lacking, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nepal.

   

2. **Economic Implications**

   - An ageing population can strain a country’s economic resources. The **Parker & Pant (2009)** study on "Ageing in Nepal: Emerging Issues and Challenges" highlights that in Nepal, a majority of older adults depend on their families for economic support. However, with increased migration of the younger population and the erosion of traditional family support structures, this dependency becomes a significant challenge. Older people may find themselves in poverty, without adequate financial resources or social security systems.

   

3. **Healthcare Needs**

   - The ageing population has unique healthcare needs, including management of chronic diseases, access to specialized geriatric care, and mental health services. However, many developing countries, including Nepal, lack sufficient infrastructure and medical personnel trained to address these needs. This leads to gaps in care, making it difficult for older persons to receive the appropriate health interventions they require.

---

### **B. Abuse and Violence Against Older People**

1. **Elder Abuse in Nepal**

   - Elder abuse, a growing concern globally, is also a significant issue in Nepal. Abuse may take various forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and neglect. According to the **Geriatric Centre Nepal (2010)** report, cases of elder abuse are often underreported due to the stigma associated with disclosing abuse, as well as the reliance on family members for care. The **baseline study on elder abuse in the Nepali press** highlighted that elder abuse is often perpetrated by family members, caregivers, or close acquaintances, making it difficult for victims to seek help.

   

2. **Types of Abuse**

   - **Ageing Nepal (2011)** documented cases of elder abuse and neglect between 2009 and 2011. The study found that financial exploitation was one of the most common forms of abuse, with many older adults being denied their financial rights by family members or others. Physical and emotional abuse were also frequently reported, often stemming from social and economic tensions within families.

   

3. **Addressing Elder Abuse**

   - To combat elder abuse, both policy interventions and public awareness are necessary. There needs to be stronger enforcement of existing laws and regulations, such as Nepal’s **Senior Citizens Act (2007)**, which provides legal protection for older adults. Additionally, social support systems must be strengthened to provide alternative care options for older people who are vulnerable to abuse within their families.

---

### **C. New Research Agendas on Ageing**

1. **UN Research Agenda on Ageing for the 21st Century**

   - The **UN Programme on Ageing (2007)** outlined the **Research Agenda on Ageing for the 21st Century**, a joint initiative of the United Nations Programme on Ageing and the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics (IAGG). The agenda highlights key areas where further research is needed to address the complex issues associated with an ageing population.

   - The main objectives of this research agenda include:

     - Understanding the diverse experiences of ageing in different cultural and socio-economic contexts.

     - Examining the effects of social and economic policies on the well-being of older adults.

     - Investigating the impact of migration and globalization on the ageing process.

     - Promoting age-friendly environments and addressing social isolation among the elderly.

   

2. **Emerging Research Topics**

   - **Intergenerational Relations**: As families change due to migration and modernization, research is needed on how these shifts affect relationships between generations. In many societies, older adults rely on their children for economic and emotional support, but with the younger generation moving away for employment, these traditional support systems are being strained.

   - **Technology and Ageing**: The role of technology in improving the lives of older persons is another emerging area of research. Access to technology can help older adults stay connected with family members, access healthcare services remotely, and manage daily tasks. However, there is a growing digital divide, particularly in developing countries like Nepal, where many older adults may not have access to or familiarity with technology.

   - **Gender and Ageing**: Research has shown that the experience of ageing can differ significantly between men and women. Older women, in particular, may face greater challenges due to longer life expectancy, economic dependency, and gender-based discrimination. Studies like those in the UN research agenda emphasize the need to understand the gendered dimensions of ageing and formulate policies that address these inequalities.

---

### **Conclusion**

Unit III on "Emerging Issues and Challenges of Ageing" provides an essential understanding of the complexities surrounding an ageing population. From the challenges of healthcare and economic dependency to the critical issue of elder abuse, this unit emphasizes the urgent need for policy interventions and social support systems that cater to the unique needs of older adults.

The international research agenda highlights that more academic work is needed to address these emerging issues, focusing on intergenerational relations, gender dimensions of ageing, and the potential of technology to improve the quality of life for the elderly.

---

### Key Readings:

1. **Challenges of Ageing Population**:

   - **WHO (2012)**. Active ageing: A policy framework. pp. 33-43.

   - **Parker, S., & Pant, B. (2009)**. Ageing in Nepal: Emerging Issues and Challenges.

2. **Abuse and Violence Against Older People**:

   - **Geriatric Centre Nepal (2010)**. A baseline study on reported cases of elder abuse in Nepali press.

   - **Ageing Nepal (2011)**. Cases of elder abuse and neglect 2009-2011.

3. **New Research Agendas on Ageing**:

   - **UN Programme on Ageing (2007)**. Research agenda on ageing for the 21st century, a joint project of the United Nations Programme on Ageing and the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics.

Legal Frameworks and Implementations

Legal Frameworks and Implementations

 ### Unit II: Legal Frameworks and Implementations (12 hours)

This unit covers the international and national legal frameworks related to ageing and their implementations. It also examines the status of older people and the social perception of ageing, with a particular focus on Nepal. Below is a detailed analysis of each section.

---

### **A. International Conferences and Legal Frameworks**

1. **First World Assembly on Ageing (Vienna, 1982)**

   - The **First World Assembly on Ageing** was convened in Vienna in 1982, marking the first time the global community came together to address the ageing population. The assembly emphasized the need for international cooperation to ensure the well-being of older people, focusing on areas such as health, housing, and social welfare. The assembly adopted the **Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing**, which laid down recommendations for enhancing the lives of older persons worldwide. 

   - This action plan encouraged countries to develop national policies focusing on ageing and integrate older persons into society, advocating for their health care and income security.

2. **United Nations Principles for Older Persons (1991)**

   - Adopted by the **UN General Assembly** in 1991, these principles outline five key areas where older persons should have rights:

     - **Independence**: Older persons should have access to income, healthcare, and work opportunities.

     - **Participation**: Older persons should remain integrated into society and participate in decision-making.

     - **Care**: Older persons should have access to social, legal, and healthcare services.

     - **Self-fulfillment**: They should be able to pursue personal growth.

     - **Dignity**: Their rights and freedoms should be respected.

   - These principles provided a framework for national governments to formulate policies aimed at improving the quality of life for older persons.

3. **Year of Older Persons (1999)**

   - The **United Nations International Year of Older Persons** was declared in 1999, bringing attention to the contributions and challenges of ageing populations. It aimed to promote awareness about the issues older adults face and called for a global focus on improving their quality of life.

4. **Second World Assembly on Ageing (Madrid, 2002) & Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA)**

   - The **Second World Assembly on Ageing** took place in Madrid in 2002. It built upon the Vienna Plan of Action and launched the **Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA)**, a comprehensive global policy framework aimed at addressing the challenges of an ageing population. MIPAA focused on three priority areas:

     - **Older persons and development**: Promoting the integration of older persons in society.

     - **Advancing health and well-being**: Improving access to healthcare and social services.

     - **Ensuring supportive environments**: Advocating for age-friendly housing and infrastructure.

   - MIPAA emphasized the importance of incorporating ageing into development policies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

5. **UN Resolution on the Rights of Older People (2011)**

   - In 2011, the **UN General Assembly** adopted a resolution calling for the recognition of the rights of older persons. It aimed to protect older adults from discrimination and violence and stressed the need for comprehensive legal protections at both national and international levels.

   - The resolution also called for governments to ensure that older persons have equal access to employment, social protection, and healthcare.

6. **Review of MIPAA (2012)**

   - The **MIPAA Review (2012)** assessed the progress made since the adoption of the Madrid Plan of Action. The review highlighted some of the achievements in implementing ageing-related policies but also pointed out the need for more robust efforts, particularly in addressing the vulnerabilities of older persons in developing countries.

---

### **B. National Plans and Acts on Ageing in Nepal**

1. **National Action Plan for Senior Citizens (2006)**

   - Nepal's **National Action Plan for Senior Citizens (2006)** was formulated to address the growing needs of the elderly population in Nepal. It aligns with global frameworks such as MIPAA and aims to improve the well-being of older persons by enhancing their access to social services, health care, and legal protections.

   - The plan focuses on key areas such as:

     - Establishing old-age homes and day-care centers.

     - Providing healthcare services tailored to the needs of older people.

     - Supporting income-generating activities for senior citizens.

     - Promoting the participation of older persons in social and political life.

2. **Senior Citizens Act (2007) and Senior Citizens Regulation (2009)**

   - The **Senior Citizens Act (2007)** marked a significant legal step in protecting the rights and welfare of older people in Nepal. The act provides a legal framework for the establishment of care homes, social security measures (such as pensions), and special concessions for senior citizens.

   - The **Senior Citizens Regulation (2009)** builds upon the act, specifying the rights of older persons and outlining the responsibilities of the government in providing support and services. The regulation mandates that public transport and healthcare services offer discounts and prioritization for elderly individuals.

---

### **C. Status of Older People in Nepal**

1. **Demographic Overview**

   - The elderly population in Nepal is growing due to an increase in life expectancy and a decline in fertility rates. According to **Ageing Nepal and CDPS (2012)**, older persons face several challenges, including limited access to healthcare, inadequate social protection, and dependence on family members for care. 

   - Nepal's socio-economic structure is still largely family-based, and elderly individuals often live with their children. However, this traditional support system is eroding due to migration, urbanization, and changing family dynamics.

2. **Challenges in Health and Social Care**

   - A joint study by **Ageing Nepal and CDPS (2012)** highlights that Nepal's healthcare infrastructure is not well-equipped to handle the specific needs of its ageing population. The study recommends piloting community-based care programs and improving access to geriatric services.

---

### **D. Social Perception of Ageing in Nepal**

1. **Cultural Views on Ageing**

   - In Nepal, ageing is traditionally viewed as a respected stage of life. Older people are often seen as the custodians of cultural and religious values, and respect for elders is an integral part of societal norms.

   - However, **Uprety (2010)** and other studies indicate that this respect is not always accompanied by adequate social and economic support. Some elderly people face neglect, particularly as family structures change due to modernization and migration.

2. **Work and Dependency**

   - **Beall and Goldstein (1982)** examined the work and dependency of older Sherpas in Nepal, highlighting that older people continue to contribute to their households even as they age. However, with increasing economic pressures and migration of younger family members, many elderly individuals are left without sufficient support.

3. **Elderly Homes and Social Isolation**

   - According to **Acharya (2008)**, there has been a growing trend in the establishment of elderly homes in Nepal. While these homes provide necessary shelter and care, they often lead to the social isolation of older persons, who are separated from their families and communities. The study suggests that the rise of elderly homes reflects the changing social fabric of Nepalese society, where traditional family support structures are weakening.

---

### Key Readings:

1. **International Frameworks**:

   - **UN (1982)**. Report of the world assembly on ageing, Vienna, 26 July to 6 August 1982.

   - **UN (2002)**. Political declaration and Madrid International Plan of Action and Ageing, Second World Assembly on Ageing, Madrid, Spain.

   - **UN Resolution on Rights of Older People (2011)**.

2. **National Plans and Acts**:

   - **Parker, S., & Pant, B. (2011)**. Longevity in Nepal: Health, policy and service provision challenges.

   - **Senior Citizens Act (2007)** and **Senior Citizens Regulation (2009)**.

3. **Status of Older People in Nepal**:

   - **Ageing Nepal and CDPS (2012)**. Health and social care needs assessment of elderly.

   - **Uprety, L.P. (2010)**. Effectiveness of non-contributory social pension in Nepal.

   - **Acharya, Pradeep (2008)**. Senior citizens and elderly homes: A survey from Kathmandu.

---

This unit provides a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks and the status of older persons both globally and in Nepal. By studying the international conferences, national action plans, and acts related to ageing, students gain insights into how various policies shape the lives of older persons. Additionally, understanding the social perception of ageing in Nepal is essential for analyzing the cultural and structural challenges faced by older people in a rapidly changing society.