Karitan Sa Lukos: Meranaw Traditional Care for the Aged

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the practices and problems in traditional care concerning old-age Meranaw in Maharlika Village, Taguig City, Metro Manila. Despite being acculturated, the Meranaws in the area are still adherent to, in many ways, to Meranaw traditions. Hence it is common to find the whole clan living in the same area getting strength from living in close proximity. In this way, the younger and more able adults of the family are able to take better care of their elders by taking them into their homes. On the whole, it was found that the Meranaws do their best to support their aging parents whatever it takes. However, because of these adults occupied in their business and work, based on the gathered data, the result of the study also showed that the elderly were in need of more financial support, more attention and assistance with health concerns such as medical and dental issues, proper living arrangements /accommodation, and more assistance and support in terms of physical and mental fitness.