SENIOR CITIZEN: AN ELDERLY PERSPECTIVE IN THE COMMUNITY
The paper critically investigates the current status and factors affecting the holistic and meaningful life of the elderly. It focuses on examining the emotional, spiritual, financial, physical and social stability and readiness of senior citizens as part of their age. An important tenet of this study is the incorporation of Japan’s value orientation “Ikigai” or reason for being which is described as a secret among Japanese elderly people to a long, happy and meaningful life. Thus, this concept of empowering communities among elderly is identified as an important element in the promotion of highly-satisfied, well-fulfilled and impactful lives of senior citizens in the Philippines.
This quantitative-descriptive study employed 111 respondents who are all elderly and are members of Office of Senior Citizens Association (OSCA) of Bacoor City, Cavite. It utilized convenient sampling techniques in determining its respondents. A structured survey questionnaire was designed and distributed to the participants of the study. Likewise, pilot testing of the questionnaire was conducted in a controlled population in order to find out the validity and accuracy of the instrument for the said study.
Findings show that under emotional stability, elders perceived and thought of themselves as completely worthless while showing enthusiasm on their social and spiritual readiness profile. Respondents have expressed that they have plans of joining activities in the community and church and commit for future projects. On the other hand, physical stability of respondents reveals some signs of a weak body affecting their health and physical well-being thus, requiring them to undergo periodic medical consultation. Furthermore, financial stability scale sets have shown that elderly people are struggling financially brought by insufficiency of savings and financial insecurity.
Keywords: Growing old gracefully, dignity and honor, elderly, and senior citizen
