Old age consists of ages nearing or surpassing the average life span of human beings, and thus the end of the human life cycle. Euphemisms and terms for older people include seniors — chiefly an American usage — or elderly. As occurs with almost any definable group of humanity, some people will hold a prejudice against others; in this case, against older people. This is one form of ageism.

Older people have limited regenerative abilities and are more prone to disease, syndromes, and sickness than other adults. For the biology of ageing, see Senescence. The medical study of the aging process is gerontology, and the study of diseases that afflict the elderly is geriatrics.

Old age homes are homes for senior citizens who wish for secured living, looking for social interaction though want to stay away from social pressure. There are two types of Old Age Homes. (1) FREE & (2) PAID.

The free type Old Age Home is the one for the old people who have no one to take care. Here they are provided with all basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter and medical care. These institutes work under government sector or under any charitable institute.
The paid type Old Age Home is the one where the old age people are taken care by taking fee. These types of Old Age Homes provide not only the basic necessities but also take care of special interests of the old age people. These types of homes are also known as Retirement homes and now days are very popular and well worth considering. This work under private institutes or a private owner.
There are various factors which have alienated elder people.

Many young couples leave homes in rural areas to fend themselves with better job facilities.
There are many elders who do not wish to give their responsibilities to their children.
Some times there is a feeling of annoyance in youngsters towards the attitude of old age people.
These are certain factors which have led to more and more Old Age Homes.

A registered national level voluntary organisation A secular, apolitical, non-profit and a non-governmental organisation, an NGO dedicated towards the welfare of Older Persons across the country. It endeavours to bring about a change in the perception of old age and assist older persons to move surely but steadily from helplessness and self pity towards confidence, respect and mutual caring.