Peer-reviewed article
A Review of International Migration, Older Parents, and Social Work in Nepal
Sanjay K C ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-sonnet-5-5This narrative review looks at how international migration from Nepal affects older parents who stay at home. It draws on empirical studies, census data, legislation and policy frameworks. It finds that remittances can help household finances but do not replace physical presence and everyday help. It also points to gaps between migration policy and policy for older people, and describes the role of social work. The focus is on older adults, not on the well-being of children.
Key points
- Remittances can improve household financial conditions for older parents left behind.
- Financial support cannot fully replace physical presence and everyday assistance.
- Older parents may experience changes in physical assistance, emotional well-being, family relationships and access to health services.
- Migration policies and policies for older people are poorly coordinated, particularly when family care arrangements change after adult children migrate.
- Social work can contribute through individual assessment, community-based case management and policy practice at local, provincial and federal levels.
Limitations
The abstract does not say how studies were selected, and the review is about older parents rather than children, so it says little about child well-being. It does not evaluate a specific intervention.
Abstract
International migration from Nepal has important implications for older parents who remain at home. While remittances can improve household financial conditions, older parents may also experience changes in physical assistance, emotional well-being, family relationships, and access to health services. This article presents a narrative review of empirical research, demographic census data, legislation, and policy frameworks to examine these dimensions of well-being among older parents affected by migration. The analysis is guided by the life course perspective, intergenerational solidarity theory, transnational care circulation, and the relational model of well-being. The findings indicate that financial support can contribute to household well-being but cannot fully replace physical presence and everyday assistance. The review also identifies gaps in coordination between migration policies and policies for older people, particularly where family care arrangements change following adult children’s migration. The article highlights the role of social work in individual assessment, community-based case management, and policy practice at the local, provincial, and federal levels. Strengthening professional social work services and connecting migration policies to social protection for older people can help improve access to services and respond to the changing needs of older parents in Nepal.