49. The proportion of the handicapped -blind, crippled, deaf and dumb, and those suffering from various genetic disabilities - is always high ifl poor countries. Taboos and traditional at­ titudes and practices continue to make life difficult for such people. It is even difficult to estimate their numbers and try to help them, because relatives hide them out of a mistaken sense of shame and embarrassment. 50. Although some of the disadvantaged may need special in­ stitutionalized care, the majority can be helped to lead near­ -normal lives if only their people and their communities are willing to accept and help them. This is recognized and recom­ mended as the best approach, and it is also cheaper. But at­ titudes are slow to change. 51. Fortunately, in Africa, people still prefer to have their aged relatives with them. Their numbers are small, but with im­ proved health services the proportion of old people in the population will increase. Some thought ought to be given by both young and old to the art of growing old and how to cope with old age. This will help to avoid the feeling of helplessness and uselessness that plagues old people, and which is beginning to influence the attitudes of young people to them. 52. · The general pattern of welfare services is well es­ tablished in the region, but trained personnel are still lacking. Even where trained personnel a:te available, the low rating which governments give social welfare and community development person­ nel leads to job dissatisfaction, and some of the most able prac­ tioners opt for other jobs. 53. Institutions of higher learning in Africa now offer various courses for welfare personnel, some. even up to Ph.D. level. However, they appear to be largely restricted to English-speaking countries: French-speaking countries have been slo"' to provide 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the challenges and issues related to providing welfare services to disadvantaged groups, including the handicapped, elderly, and those with genetic disabilities. It highlights the importance of community acceptance and support, as well as the need for trained personnel and institutions to provide adequate care. The text also touches on the cultural and societal attitudes that hinder progress in this area. Given these themes, it is likely that the text falls under the categories related to human development and social welfare.

**Category**
Health, Education, Humanitarian aid and relief