On 9 October 2023, Dala Duo successfully defended his PhD thesis on the impact of socioeconomic transformation on elderly care in Tibetan areas, exploring care provisions and aging experience.
In his thesis, Dala delved into the impact of socioeconomic transformations on elderly care in Tibetan areas undergoing rapid change. He examined whether these changes have led to a crisis in elderly care and how various responses have affected this situation.
He showed that challenges and care crises exist, especially due to China's fragmented social policies and out-migration of younger generations. However, also found that the care crisis is mitigated by an institutional arrangement between state, family, community and care homes.
Recent social reforms have partially improved income security, and family members, particularly women, remain the primary caregivers. Informal social networks and religious groups play crucial roles in the care regime, offering companionship and assistance. Institutional-based care serves as a last resort for destitute elders.
Read Dala's thesis
A photographic reminder of the defence
Rewatch Dala's defence introduction
