Changing Dynamics and Responsibilities of Elderly Care in Urban Families of Dhaka City

Abstract

This study explores the evolving nature of elderly care within urban families in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in the context of rapid demographic ageing, urbanization, and socioeconomic transformation. Traditionally, elderly care in Bangladesh has been familybased, rooted in cultural, moral, and religious expectations where adult children— particularly sons and daughters-in-law—assume primary responsibility for supporting ageing parents. However, this long-standing system is increasingly under strain due to changing family structures, economic pressures, and shifting social norms. The research identifies that urbanization, migration, the rise of nuclear families, and increased female participation in the workforce has significantly reduced the capacity of families to provide consistent and quality care. Although elderly individuals still largely depend on family members, the quality, intensity, and emotional aspects of care are declining due to time constraints, work pressures, and changing attitudes among younger generations. The study also highlights the gendered dimension of caregiving, where women continue to bear the primary burden of elderly care despite their growing involvement in paid employment. This creates a “double burden” and contributes to stress and imbalance within households. At the same time, elderly individuals face increasing challenges such as chronic illness, financial insecurity, social isolation, and limited access to healthcare and institutional support systems. Methodology applied for this qualitative study is limited to urban households in selected areas of Dhaka city, aiming to capture the lived experiences of older adults and their caregivers within this specific context. The study area selected for this research is some urban areas under the Dhaka North and South City Corporations. As the population of this study area is numerous, thus sampling method applied while collecting data. A total of 30 households selected based on Purposive sampling and three popular methods are applied namely In-depth Interviews (IDI), Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and Observation. vi Collected data analysis done based on thematic analysis coding and categorization of recurring patterns ethical considerations, informed consent confidentiality respect for participants are considered during analysis. A major finding of the research is the gap between strong cultural expectations of filial responsibility and the declining practical ability of families to fulfill these roles. While policies such as the National Policy on Older Persons exist, formal care services— including residential facilities and home-based care—remain inadequate, fragmented, and inaccessible to most urban residents. The study aims to examine the socio-economic conditions and health needs of the elderly, analyses changing caregiving roles and responsibilities, and assess the availability of support from both family and institutional sources. It also seeks to understand how caregiving responsibilities are negotiated within households and influenced by gender, class, and urban living conditions. Overall, the research argues that the traditional family-based care model is no longer sufficient on its own. It calls for the development of integrated, culturally sensitive, and sustainable elderly care systems that combine family support with state, community, and market-based interventions. Such approaches are essential to ensure dignified ageing, social inclusion, and improved quality of life for the growing elderly population in urban Bangladesh. Study found that the family remains the primary source of elderly care, despite significant structural and social changes. Most elderly individuals continue to rely on their children—particularly sons—and other close family members for financial, physical, and emotional support. Cultural and moral expectations rooted in societal norms still strongly influence caregiving practices, and many respondents expressed a sense of duty and obligation toward their ageing parents. However, this reliance on family support is increasingly strained due to changing living arrangements and economic pressures.