Indira Jai Prakash — Bangalore University, Bangalore.

In recent years, there has been paradigmatic shift and aging is increasingly viewed as a potential stage for greater development rather than a problem. Saging is thus replacing the term aging. This view is optimistic, positive and acknowledges the place of wisdom that age may bring with it. The Indian concept of vanaprastha and the character of vanaprasthi is not very different from the western concept of saging. Contemporary Indian society is witnessing rapid social change which is adversely affecting inter-generational harmony, and saging may thus assume a new role that bestows meaning to old age. Family support and social status cannot be taken for granted in today’s society. Role-loss affects the morale of an aging person. Saging offers a new role that helps in the inner development of the aging person and also contributes to community well-being.

Email the author:�"Prof. Indira Jai Prakash " <indira313@hotmail.com>