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CHAPTER.5

PENSION, SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEMES AND THE ELDERLY

5.1. Introduction

In the previous chapter we discussed the living arrangements of the

elderly and analysed the support received by the elderly in family setting. The

gradual collapse of traditional old age support mechanism and the rise in elderly

population highlighted the need for appropriate formal channels (Goswami, 2001).

In this context of reducing family support, the responsibility of the state to ensure

the welfare of older persons increases. Hence in this chapter an attempt is made to

analyse the old age income security provided by government to elderly in the form

of pension for those in the organized sector and social security benefits for those in

the unorganized sector.

The term social security refers to programmes established by state

that insure individuals against interruption or loss of earning power (International

Social Security Association, 2003). The main function of social security is to

provide income security, access to health care and basic social services and thus

reducing poverty among the elderly (American Institute of Certified Public

Accountants, 2005). International Labour Organisation (2006) defines social

security as the “set of institutions, measures, right and obligations whose primary

goal is to provide income security and medical care to individual members of the

society”. Unlike developing countries India do not have a universal pension

system. There is no comprehensive social security system in India as a whole

(Rajan et al, 1999). Pension policy adopted by the country is restricted to the

workers in organised sectors leaving 90 percent of the workers in the unorganized

sector.

Kerala is known for its widespread and popular social security

schemes especially for the aged. At present the state is having four lakh

pensioners and 12 lakh social security beneficiaries (Government of India, 2008).

They constitute about half of the elderly (49 percent) in the state. Early retirement

age along with increasing longevity in the state has triggered problems for elderly

175

employed in formal sector. Though the policy holders raised the problem of state‟s

affordability in providing social security benefits to the growing elderly

population, how far these schemes are efficient in providing support to the elderly

is also a matter of concern.

The first section analyses the utilization pattern of pension and

social security benefits and its adequacy in meeting the needs of elderly. The

nature of social security beneficiaries and the pensioners cannot be pooled always

due to the heterogeneous behaviour. Thus the preceding paragraphs flow at three

levels. Firstly the discussion is only on social security beneficiaries. In

continuation of that the pensioners are discussed. Final part of this section gives

presentation covering both social security beneficiaries and pensioners. The

second section examines the impact of these schemes on elderly‟s participation in

decision-making and life satisfaction.

5.2. Social Security Benefits and its Impact

From its formation, Kerala gave more prominence to social

security measures. In 1980‟s there was a proliferation of social security schemes

for older persons in various categories. At present the state Kerala is having 40

social security schemes for ensuring income security for aged in the unorganized

sectors. These schemes are implemented either directly through government

departments or welfare boards. The major schemes financed fully by the state are

Kerala Agricultural workers pension scheme, Kerala Destitute and widow pension

scheme, old age pension to craftsmen and journalist welfare fund scheme. The

schemes that are financed partly with state‟s support include Kerala construction

workers welfare fund, Kerala fishermen welfare fund scheme and Kerala khadi

workers welfare fund. The schemes that are financed by respective boards include

Kerala headload workers welfare fund, Kerala toddy workers welfare fund and

Kerala abkari workers welfare fund.

The study also made an attempt to examine the extent of pension and

social security reaching the elderly and its utilization pattern. During the course of

the survey it was felt that, the elderly are getting only nominal amount as social

security benefit and the benefit itself is not suitable for any major activities or

176

upliftment. The social security benefits enjoyed can be linked with other sources

of income and can be utilized for some useful purpose. The succeeding paragraphs

and tables present the utilisation of pension and social security benefits and its

impact on elderly‟s life.

5.2.1. Classification of Social Security Beneficiaries on the Basis of Schemes

Table (5.1) shows the classification of beneficiaries on the basis of

social security schemes.

Table 5.1

Distribution of Beneficiaries According to their Participation in Schemes

Schemes Male Female Total

Agricultural labour

pension

19(52.78) 41(37.96) 60(41.67)

National old age pension 12(33.33) 21(19.44) 33(22.92)

Widow pension scheme 0 39(36.12) 39(27.08)

Others 5(13.89) 7(6.48) 12(8.33)

Total 36(100) 108(100) 144(100)

Figures in the brackets show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Among the various schemes, majority of the beneficiaries (41.66 percent)

were receiving agricultural labour pension. 22.91 percent of beneficiaries were

benefited from National old age pension scheme. The trend is similar to the pattern

experienced in the state. Nearly 21 percent of pension scheme beneficiaries in the

state were from National old age pension scheme (Economic review, 2009). 27.08

percent were receiving widow pension. The category “others” include schemes

like construction workers welfare pension, unmarried women above 50 and

tailoring workers welfare fund. 8.33 percent of the sample beneficiaries are from

the schemes mentioned in the category „others‟. Gender-wise distribution of

beneficiaries in table (5.1) shows that 75 percent of social security beneficiaries

were women. Presence of widow pension scheme along with higher life

expectancy among women may be the reason for this female domination. Even in

the case of agricultural pension scheme and old age pension scheme more than 60

percent were older women.

177

5.2.2. Source of Awareness of the Scheme

Awareness to the beneficiary about a social security scheme is

necessary for achieving its objectives. During the survey, elderly were asked about

the source of awareness of the scheme. Since government servants will be enrolled

to the pension scheme after retirement, we enquired about the details of source of

awareness to social security beneficiaries only. Table (5.2) shows the source of

awareness of the schemes in the study regions.

Table 5.2

Distribution of Beneficiaries on the Basis of Source of Awareness of the Scheme

Source Male Female Total

Local leaders 7(19.45) 33(30.56) 40(27.78)

Panchayat office 17(47.22) 44(40.74) 61(42.36)

Friends or relatives 8(22.22) 15(13.89) 23(15.97)

Others 4(11.11) 16(14.81) 20(13.89)

Total 36(100) 108(100) 144(100)

Figures in the brackets show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Nearly 43 percent got information about the schemes from the

panchayat. It is found that 27.78 percent of elderly were informed by ward

members or local leaders. Trade unions and Kudumbashree members informed

13.89 percent of elderly. Older women got information about the scheme from

local leaders than older men. It is also noted that most of the beneficiaries do not

remember the type of scheme they were enrolled.

5.2.3. Purpose of Using Social Security Amount

Table (5.3) shows the major purpose for which they are utilizing

social security benefits

Analyzing the purpose of using social security benefits, it is found

that majority of them (41.67 percent) use their money for meeting basic needs like

food, clothing etc. 11.81 percent of elderly reported that the amount is just

sufficient to buy medicines only. 18.06 percent of elderly use their amount for

their personal needs only. It is found that older women were more likely to give

their pension amount to spouse or children than men. Further, older women who

178

are widowed gave the pension amount as loan for others. Though the amount is

meager, it provides them income in the form of interest.

Table 5.3

Distribution of Beneficiaries on the Basis of the Purpose of Using Money

Purpose Male Female Total

Basic needs 15(41.67) 45(41.67) 60(41.67)

Loan payments 4(11.11) 7(6.48) 11(7.64)

Gave to husband or

children

4(11.11) 17(15.74) 21(14.58)

Medicines 4(11.11) 13(12.04) 17(11.81)

Own needs 7(19.45) 19(17.59) 26(18.06)

Other reasons 2(5.56) 7(6.48) 9(6.25)

Total 36(100) 108(100) 144(100)

Figures in the brackets show percentages

Source: Primary survey

5.2.4. Managing Expenditure by Social Security Beneficiaries

Elderly were asked whether the social security benefit is sufficient

for them to meet their needs. Though many of them reported social security

benefits received as their main source of income, no single beneficiary reported

the amount is sufficient for their needs. Thus the rationality of continuation of

present meager amount is a matter of policy concern.

Table 5.4

Sex wise distribution of Financial Support

Managing expenditure Male Female Total

From work 8(22.22) 31(28.70) 39(27.08)

Assistance from children 21(58.33) 56(51.85) 77(53.47)

Borrow from relatives 7(19.45) 19(17.59) 26(18.06)

Help from charitable

institutions

0 2(1.85) 2(1.39)

Total 36(100) 108(100) 144(100)

Figures in the brackets show percentages

Source: Primary survey

179

53.47 percent of elderly reported that they are getting assistance from

children for their basic needs. 27.08 percent of elderly work even at this old age in

order to meet their expenses. 18.06 percent reported that they borrow from

relatives or friends for their expense. This suggests that children provide a major

source of support for elderly. Similar trend is observed in the case of gender-wise

data also. Further it is observed that as age increases, the dependence of elderly on

economic activity decreases while their dependence on children increases. Another

shock is that the proportion of who rely on borrowing (who borrow money for

their basic needs) has increased from 10.91 percent in the age group 60+ to 30.30

percent at the age of 80 and above. Deteriorating physical condition may force

them to rely on borrowing and seek help from others. They also point out irregular

and delayed payments also force them to borrow from others.

5.3. Basic Profile of Pensioners

The sample consists of 169 pensioners from three study regions. Of

which 84 are older women and 85 older men. Though the work participation rate

of females is low in the state, the sample constitutes almost equal number of older

men and women. Because of higher life expectancy of females, there is more

chance for the sample selected to be women as they get aged. Among the total

pensioners, 84 percent of the pensioners were receiving service pension and 13.60

percent family pensioners. Compared to state trends (19 percent) family

pensioners constitute lesser proportion in the total sample pensioners. There is

preponderance of older men (97.6 percent) in the category of service pensioners.

In the case of older women, 70.2 percent were service pensioners and 27.4 percent

family pensioners. 2.4 percent of the elderly in the study area were receiving

Employees Provident Fund.

5.3.1. Spending Pattern of Pensioners

For 82.84 percent of pensioners retirement pension is the only source

of income. Majority (77.51 percent) of pensioners spent major portion of their

income for household needs, i.e, using money for the welfare of family. 5.92

percent of elderly gave their pension amount to spouse or children. 80 percent of

these respondents are older women. Increasing disabilities along high cost of

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medical expenses made 3.55 percent of elderly use their pension amount for

medical purposes. It is observed that though pensioners are having regular and

relatively reasonable income than social security beneficiaries they spent only a

small portion of income for their personal needs

5.3.2. Sufficiency of Pension Amount

Retirement pension amount provided to elderly by government is an

indicator of self-reliance. Elderly experience a greater reduction in income after

retirement while their expenditure remains more or less the same. Older persons

were enquired about the sufficiency of pension amount.

Table 5.5

Gender wise distribution of pensioners on the basis of income sufficiency

Sufficiency of

pension amount Male Female Total

Enough to meet 29(34.12) 44(52.38) 73(43.20)

Sometimes find

difficult 45(52.94) 32(38.10) 77(45.56)

Never 11(12.94) 8(9.52) 19(11.24)

Total 85(100) 84(100) 169(100)

Figures in the brackets show percentages

Source: Primary survey

67 percent of elderly found difficult to meet their expenses occasionally

or always. The proportion of elderly who find difficult to meet their expenditure

regularly in urban areas (16.67 percent) is two times more than in rural areas (8.26

percent). This may be because of the high cost of living in urban areas. Compared

to women pensioners (9.52 percent), greater proportion of older men (12.94

percent) reported that they were not able to meet their expenditure with current

pension. This is because in most case female pensioner‟s income will be

supplemented with husband‟s or children‟s income. It is noted that among female

pensioners who reported inadequate income, a few were widowed or divorced.

The survey results in table (5.5) indicate that the entire needs of elderly

have not been able to meet with their pension amount. A little less than half of

pensioners (48.96 percent) reported that they seek children‟s help to meet their

needs. 14.58 percent depends on savings for their needs. 16.67 percent who do not

181

have the support from children or other family members borrows from others.

Compared to male pensioners (58.93 percent), female pensioners (75 percent)

depend on children‟s help or borrowings to meet their expenditure.

5.3.3. Amount Received at the Time of Retirement and its Utilization Pattern

Elderly working in the organized sector are eligible for retirement

benefits. These benefits provide them financial independence and a sense of

security. Table (5.6) shows the amount received by elderly at the time of

retirement and the purpose of spending.

Table 5.6

Distribution of Pensioners on the Basis of Retirement Amount and its Utilization

Retirement

amount

Hou

sin

g

Deb

t

pay

men

t

Chil

dre

n‟s

exp

ense

House

hold

exp

ense

s

med

ical

exp

ense

Sav

e

oth

ers

To

tal

Less than

1 lakh 5(20.84)

3

(42.86)

25

(44.64) 4(40)

3

(50)

5

(19.23) 0

45

(33.83)

1lakh-

4lakh 15(62.50)

3

42.86)

26

(46.43) 1(10)

3

(50)

17

(65.38)

2

(50)

67

(50.37)

4lakh-

8lakh 2(8.33)

1

(14.28)

5

(8.93) 0 0

2

(7.69) 0

10

(5.91)

8lakh &

above 2(8.33) 0 0 0 0

2

(7.69) 0 4(3)

Don‟t

remember 0 0 0 5(50) 0 0

2

(50)

7

(5.26)

Total 24(100)

7

(100)

56

(100) 10(100)

6

(100)

26

(100)

4

(100)

133

(100)

Figures in the brackets show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Of the total sample, 21.30 percent of elderly who worked in private

institutions or included in the category of family pensioners did not receive any

retirement benefits. Among the 133 older persons, 33.83 percent of elderly

received up to Rs.1lakh as retirement benefits. 50.37 percent of elderly received an

amount between Rs.1lakh and Rs.4lakh after retirement as gratuity, provident fund

etc. The survey data show that 42.11 percent has utilized the amount for

daughter‟s marriage or to buy assets for son. 18.04 percent of elderly spent the

amount to buy house or for the maintenance of house. 19.54 percent of elderly

reported that they saved the money for children‟s marriage and for their future

needs. This shows that majority of elderly spent the amount for the welfare of

182

family rather than their personal needs. Gender-wise analysis of data shows that

there is no significant difference in the utilization of retirement amount. The

proportion of older men with higher retirement benefits is greater compared to

older women. This may be due to gender differences in the occupational pattern. It

is also noted that 27.38 percent of older women were receiving family pension.

The proportion of older men with no retirement benefits was 2.35 percent.

5.3.4. Dependency Burden of Pensioners

Usually policy makers concentrate on dependency of elderly on younger

generations. There are a few cases where family members depend on elderly‟s

pension for their needs.

Table 5.7

Distribution of Pensioners on the Basis of Dependents

No: of dependents 60-69 70-79 80+ Total

One 38 (60.32) 23 (36.51) 2 (3.17) 63(100)

Two 18 (72) 6(24) 1(4) 25(100)

Three 2 (66.67) 1(33.33) 0 3(100)

Total 58 (63.74) 30 (32.97) 3(3.29) 91(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

From the given data, it is found that 53.85 percent of pensioners have at

least one dependent. Among the elderly with dependent population, 69.23 percent

are having only one dependent child and 27.47 percent of elderly are having two

children dependent on them. The dependency of younger generation on elderly is

found to be declining with age. We enquired the reasons for this dependence.

30.77 percent reported that though their children are employed, they also have to

contribute their pension for family expenses. For 54 percent of elderly, pension

amount constitutes sole income of family since their children are unemployed.

13.19 percent reported that they are forced to provide assistance to widowed

daughters or children due to their compulsion. Older women (57.14 percent) have

more dependents than older men (50.59 percent). This indicates that even after

retirement elderly continue to bear family responsibilities and burden.

So far we examined the social security beneficiaries and

pensioners separately. Barring a few parameters, the behaviour of social security

beneficiaries and pensioners are almost the same. Thus in the succeeding

183

paragraphs and tables, social security beneficiaries and pensioners are together

discussed but not pooled.

5.3.5. Freedom to Spent Money and Gender

During the survey, the elderly were asked whether they spent money

according to their preferences. The survey results show that 79.88 percent of the

elderly spent income according to their preference regularly, while 68.10 percent

of the social security beneficiaries enjoyed the same freedom. The study findings

show that older men (81.80 percent) have more freedom to spent money as per

their preference than women (69.80 percent). In the case of social security

beneficiaries, a greater proportion of older women (72.2 percent) enjoy complete

freedom in spending money. This may be because 65.38 percent of older women

stay with spouse or children. Further analyzing the reasons, it is found that in the

case of 32.35 percent of elderly, children manage their pension amount, while

spouse manages the pension amount in the case of 38.24 percent. It is noticed that

income of female pensioners (39.29 percent) and male pensioners (38.24 percent)

were managed by spouse. While 50 percent of social security beneficiaries, both

male and female, gave their pension amount or income to children.

5.3.6. Work Participation Rate of Elderly

Studies (Rajan, 2010) opine that even at old age elderly were forced to

work in India. Table (5.8) shows the work participation rate of elderly in the study

area.

Table 5.8

Gender Wise Work Participation Rate of Elderly

Employment status Male Female Total

Pensioners

Employed 14(16.47) 3(3.57) 17(10.06)

Unemployed 71(83.53) 81(96.42) 152(89.94)

Total 85(100) 84(100) 169(100)

Social

security

beneficiaries

Employed 15(41.67) 32(29.63) 47(32.64)

Unemployed 21(58.33) 76(70.37) 97(67.36)

Total 36(100) 108(100) 144(100)

Figures in the brackets show percentages

Source: Primary survey

20.45 percent of elderly in the study area were actively engaged in some

economic activity. This is consistent with elderly‟s work participation rate (22.9

percent) experienced in the state (Census Report, 2001). Participation in economic

184

activities tends to decline with age for both pensioners and social security

beneficiaries (Punia et al, 1987). After retirement 10.06 percent of pensioners

continued their participation in economic activities. Higher work participation

(32.64 percent) among social security beneficiaries is an indication of inadequacy

of social security benefits in the state. The survey data reveal a strong gender-wise

difference in the employment status of elderly. It is found that relatively high work

participation rate is shown by older men among both pensioners and social

security beneficiaries than older women (Pleau, 2010). Older women will be more

likely to be engaged in care giving role like caring grand children, providing

assistance in household chores etc which are not intangible. Compared to female

pensioners (3.6 percent), more work participation is showed by older women

receiving social security beneficiaries (29.6 percent). Female pensioners having

regular pension show less interest in continuing their work after retirement. Older

women receiving social security benefits were more likely to be engaged in

informal sector. Since, there were no official retirement age; they continue to work

even after 60 years.

Table 5.9

Employment Status of Elderly on the Basis of Income

Employment

status

Pensioners->

Total income of elderly

Total Less

than

2000

2000-

4000

4000-

6000

6000-

8000

8000-

10000

10000

and

above

Employed 3

60)

2

(4.44)

6

(13.64)

1

2.56) 2 (8.69)

3

(23.08)

17

(10.06)

Unemployed 2

(40)

43

(95.56)

38

(86.36)

38

(97.44)

21

(91.31)

10

(76.92)

152

(89.94)

Total 5

(100)

45

(100)

44

(100)

39

(100)

23

(100)

13

(100)

169

(100)

Social

security

beneficiaries

Less

than 500

500-

1000

1000-

1500

1500-

2000 Above 2000 Total

Employed 19

(17.12)

17

(89.47)

7

(77.78)

1

(100)

3

(75)

47

(32.64)

Unemployed 92

(82.88)

2

(10.53)

2

(22.22) 0

1

(25)

97

(67.36)

Total 111

(100)

19

(100)

9

(100)

1

(100)

4

(100)

144

(100)

Figures in the brackets show percentages

Source: Primary survey

185

Further we examined the role of pension income in determining the labour

force participation of elderly.

Income-wise analysis shows that though elderly from high and low income

group are involved in economic activity, greater participation is shown by elderly

from low income group. Pensioners in the low income category suggest financial

difficulties (Lui Ping Loi and Kenneth S. Shultz, 2007) as the reason to continue

work in later ages while higher income group reported that availability of job and

the interest for engaging in some activities as the reason for work participation. In

the case of social security beneficiaries, as income increases, the employment rate

among elderly has showed a decline because better income among elderly may

lead them to prefer leisure. In the case of 89 percent of the social security

beneficiaries, financial difficulty is the main reason influencing participation in

economic activity. Work participation rate of rural social security beneficiaries

was higher than their counterparts in urban areas. Higher level of poverty and

availability of self employment and casual work opportunities (Prakash and

Abraham, 2004) in rural labour market may increase elderly‟s chances to get

employed.

5.3.7. Reasons for Not Working

An enquiry was made among the elderly who remained unemployed

during the period of survey. Usually low labour force participation is considered

as a sign of receiving better social security benefits and support from family

members. Table (5.10) examines the factors that made elderly to remain

unemployed.

186

Table 5.10

Distribution of Elderly on the Basis of the Factors Preventing them from Seeking

Employment Physical

constraint

Enjoying

leisure

Not

interested

to work

Not

allowed

by

children

Lack of

education or

required

skills

Other

reasons Total

Pensioners 35

(23)

17

(11.2)

58

(38.2)

10

(6.6)

10

(6.6)

22

(14.47)

152

(100)

Social

security

beneficiaries

77

(79.4) 0

7

(7.2)

7

(7.2) 0

6

(6.2)

97

(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Nearly 80 percent of social security beneficiaries point out ill health as

the most important factor preventing them from seeking employment. 6.6 percent

of pensioners point out low education and lack of skill as the reasons to remain

unemployed after retirement. Compared to social security beneficiaries (7.2

percent), a greater proportion of pensioners (38.2 percent) reported they are not

interested to continue work after old age. Compared to men, older women have

shown less interest in seeking job at old age. Poor health restricts 95.10 percent of

older men with social security beneficiaries to continue work.

5.3.8. Savings and Mode of Savings

Savings made by elderly during their working years strongly

influence their wellbeing at old age. Table (5.11) examines the saving behaviour

of elderly in the sample districts.

Table 5.11

Distribution of Elderly on the Basis of Saving Behaviour

Savings Male Female Total

Pen

sio

ner

s Yes 64 (75.29) 49 (58.33) 113(66.86)

No 21(24.71) 35(41.67) 56(33.14)

Total 85(100) 84(100) 169(100)

Social

security

beneficiaries

Yes 2(5.56) 10(9.26) 12(8.33)

No 34(94.44) 98(90.74) 132(91.67)

Total 36(100) 108(100) 144(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

187

Nearly 40 percent of older persons in the study area continue to save

at old age. It is observed that pensioners (66.86 percent) tend to save more than

social security beneficiaries (9.09 percent). This is expected as pensioners are

having relatively high income than social security beneficiaries. As income

increases, the proportion of pensioners with savings increases from 20 percent (for

income less than Rs.2000) to 100 percent (for income Rs10000 and above). But in

the case of social security beneficiaries though there is a positive association

between savings and income, at higher levels of income an inverse relation is

exhibited by these two variables. It may be pointed out that elderly gave a

significant portion of their income to family members. Those elderly with

dependent children, low income and poor health are more likely to dissave

(Temple and Peter.D.Brandon, 2009). Further, it is noted that elderly utilized their

savings earlier for house construction and children‟s marriage. Gender wise

differences show that male pensioners tend to save more since they are having

more pension amount than females. In the case of social security beneficiaries,

older women save more than men. Generally females in the low income group

show more interest to save than men. Among pensioners, urban pensioners tend to

save more than their counterparts in rural area. Similar pattern is witnessed in the

case of social security beneficiaries also. This may be because in urban area better

saving facilities are available. Majority of rural and urban pensioners deposited

savings in banks. While social security beneficiaries especially in rural areas

saving mode includes bank and chitties. This shows that formal banking

institutions occupy a major role in mobilizing savings.

5.3.9. Attitude towards Old Age

Elderly were asked about the feeling of getting aged. 20.40 percent of

older persons reported that they do not have such feeling. Compared to women (12

percent), older men (33.9 percent) do not have the feeling of old. Among the

elderly who responded positively, reasons were enquired. More than one-fourth of

elderly (27.71 percent) reported that their dependency on children made them to

feel so. Half of the respondents in the study areas pointed out poor health situation

188

and age increase as the reasons for feeling old. Retirement from work, birth of

grand children and weak memory were also pointed out by elderly for feeling old.

5.3.10. Preference at Old Age

Older persons were asked while partition, whether they give preference

to a child whom they like to stay with. 7.35 percent said they have not yet decided

about partition of assets. 41.21 percent said they give preference to child whom

they plan to live with. Older women gave more preference to child whom they are

more likely to stay than older men.

5.3.11. Inviting for Trips

69.23 percent of pensioners and 91.67 percent of social security

beneficiaries reported that they do not go for any pleasure trips with children or

family members. Male pensioners (35.29 percent) show more participation in

pleasure trips than female pensioners (26.19 percent). While among social security

beneficiaries older women (9.26 percent) show more participation in trips than

older men (5.56 percent). It is noted that income and physical disabilities limit

their participation in recreational activities. 31.33 percent reported poor financial

position and 14.46 percent reported adverse health condition as the reasons. 27.71

percent of elderly were not invited by children or family members for pleasure

trips. The proportion of elderly who are interested to go for trips but not invited by

children is nearly double in the case of social security beneficiaries (29.9 percent)

than pensioners.

5.4. Participation in Family Matters

Traditionally elderly enjoyed an authoritative role in the decision-

making in family matters. This authoritative role is an indicator of social

acceptance of elderly in our society. In the present decade, they are gradually

marginalized in the decision-making process (Singh, 2009). We examined the role

of older persons in decision-making in family matters. The participation of elderly

in family matters will vary according to their economic and social status.

5.4.1. Place of Residence and Participation in Family Matters

Usually families in the rural areas will be following traditional values,

which place elderly in a prestigious and elevated position in families. Therefore,

elderly living in rural area is expected to enjoy greater role in decision making.

189

Table 5.12

Place of Residence and Participation in Family Matters

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Table (5.12) shows rural-urban differences in elderly‟s participation in

family matters. The results point out rural-urban difference in decision making

with urban elderly showing more participation in decision making than rural

elderly. The proportion of pensioners having complete control in the decision

making in urban areas is 66.67 percent while it is only 43.12 percent in rural area.

It is found that older persons in urban areas were managing a major portion of

household expenses. This made them to enjoy a greater role in deciding family

matters. Similar situation is noticed in the case of social security beneficiaries also.

Greater decision-making power is observed among urban elderly (38.09 percent)

than rural social security beneficiaries.

Place of

residence

Participation in family matters

Total

Com

ple

te

contr

ol

Join

t dec

isio

n

Par

tici

pat

e but

no r

ole

in

dec

isio

n

mak

ing

Donot

inte

rfer

e

Not

info

rmed

Pen

sion

ers

Urban 40

(66.66)

10

(16.67) 10(16.67) 0 0 60(100)

Rural 47

(43.11)

31

(28.44) 17(15.60) 5(4.59) 9(8.26) 109(100)

Total

87

(51.48)

41

(24.26) 27(15.98) 5(2.96) 9(5.32) 169(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty b

enef

icia

ries

Urban 8(38.09) 5(23.81) 3(14.29) 1(4.76) 4(19.05) 21(100)

Rural

28

(22.76)

22

(17.89) 46(37.39) 2(1.63) 25(20.33) 123(100)

Total 36(25) 27

(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144(100)

190

5.4.2. Nature of Family and Participation in Family Matters

Family nature has an important role in the decision making of

elderly. It is believed that elderly in nuclear families have more involvement in

decision-making than in joint families.

Table 5.13

Participation of Elderly in Family Matters on the Basis of Family Nature

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

In the study regions 43.19 percent of pensioners live in nuclear

families. Of this 68.49 percent of pensioners reported complete control in family.

Among those elderly staying in joint families, only 38.54 percent have complete

involvement in household matters and thus, there are more opportunities for

elderly to participate in decision-making in nuclear families.

66 percent of social security beneficiaries live in joint families. Of

this 65.26 percent are not informed or consulted on family matters. Older persons

in this group opined that children were able enough to manage family matters

alone. But elderly in these families were dependent on children for basic needs.

This financial dependency made them to keep away from decision-making.

Nature of family

Participation in family matters

Total

Com

ple

te

contr

ol

Join

t dec

isio

n

Par

tici

pat

e but

no r

ole

in

dec

isio

n

mak

ing

Donot

inte

rfer

e

Not

info

rmed

Pen

sion

ers Nuclear 50 12 3 4 4 109

Joint 37 29 24 1 5 60

Total 87 41 27 5 9 169

Soci

al

secu

rity

ben

efic

iari

es

Nuclear 24 6 9 1 9 123

Joint 12 21 40 2 20 21

Total 36 27 49 3 29 144

191

5.4.3. Age and Participation in Family Matters

There is a notion that economic decision making is impaired by age.

Kovalchik et al (2004) pointed out that there is no difference between the

decision-making behaviour of older adults and young adults. Table (5.14) shows

the influence of age and the participation of elderly in family matters.

Table 5.14

Age-wise participation on Family matters

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Among 87 pensioners who enjoyed complete control in the decision

making, 65.52 percent belongs to the age group 60+. As age increases, the

participation of elderly in decision-making has shown a decline. Though there is a

decline in participation 62.5 percent of pensioners above age 80 have some role in

decision-making. This is mainly because pensioners contribute a significant

portion of their income to household needs and in many cases their pension forms

a major part of family income. This ensures their participation in decision-making

Age of

respondents

Participation in family matters

Total

Com

ple

te

contr

ol

Join

t

dec

isio

n

Par

tici

pat

e

but

no r

ole

in d

ecis

ion

mak

ing

Do n

ot

inte

rfer

e

Not

info

rmed

Pen

sion

ers

60-69 57(58.16) 25(25.51) 10(10.20) 2(2.04) 4(4.08) 98(100)

70-79 28(44.45) 13(20.63) 15(23.81) 3(4.76) 4(6.35) 63(100)

80+ 2(25) 3(37.50) 2(25) 0 1(12.50) 8(100)

Total 87(51.48) 41(24.26) 27(15.98) 5(2.96) 9(5.32) 169(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty b

enef

icia

ries

60-69 14(25.45) 11(20) 19(34.55) 1(1.82) 10(18.18) 55(100)

70-79 17(30.36) 12(21.43) 18(32.14) 1(1.79) 8(14.29) 56(100)

80+ 5(1.52) 4(1.21) 12(36.36) 1(3.03) 11(33.33) 33(100)

Total 36(25) 27

(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144(100)

192

Regarding social security beneficiaries, it is found that 25 percent of

the older persons are having complete role in decision-making. Among elderly in

various age groups, persons in the age group 70+ have greater role in family

matters. The proportion of elderly who are not consulted in household decision-

making has increased from 18.18 percent in the age group 60+ to 33.33 percent in

age group 80+. Lesser involvement of elderly in decision-making may be due to

their lower contribution to family income and dependence on children for their

basic needs.

5.4.4. Participation in Family Matters and Educational Qualification

Education plays an important role in the decision making ability of an

individual. Here we examine whether educational qualifications of older persons

made any difference in the participation in household matters

Table 5.15

Participation of Elderly in Family Matters According to their Educational Status

Educational

qualification

Participation in family matters

Total Complete

control

Joint

decision

Participate

but no role

in decision

making

Do not

interfere

Not

informed

Does not

know to read

and write

25(27.47) 16(17.58) 31(34.07) 2(2.19) 17(18.68) 91(100)

Primary 10(25.64) 9(23.08) 12(30.77) 1(2.56) 7(17.95) 39(100)

Upper primary 15(35.71) 6(14.29) 14(33.33) 0 7(16.67) 42(100)

Secondary 44(50) 22(25) 14(15.91) 2(2.27) 6(6.82) 88(100)

Higher

secondary 5(45.45) 3(27.27) 2(18.18) 0 1(9.09) 11(100)

Graduation 13(59.09) 7(31.82) 1(4.55) 1(4.55) 0 22(100)

Post

graduation 2(66.67) 0 1(33.33) 0 0 3(100)

Others 9(52.94) 5(29.41) 1(5.88) 2(11.76) 0 17(100)

Total 123(39.29) 68(21.73) 76(24.28) 8(2.56) 38(12.14) 313(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

193

. The survey data show that with increase in the level of education, the

participation of elderly in household matters increase. For elderly having primary

school education, the proportion with complete participation in family matters is

only 25.64 percent. It increased to 66.67 percent in the case of elderly having post

graduation degree. Similar pattern is observed when we examine the impact of

education in the participation of pensioners and social security beneficiaries. In the

case of pensioners, it is found that education qualifications have an important role

in determining women‟s role in decision-making than men. Among elderly having

primary level education, 80 percent of older men are consulted, while it is only 20

percent in the case of female pensioners. This shows that for older men,

irrespective of their education they have complete participation in decision-

making. Role of older men is more influenced by our tradition of favouring men.

This may be the reason for high participation rate. This gender difference is also

true in the case of social security beneficiaries. Among elderly having secondary

level education, 44.4 percent of older women have no involvement in decision-

making, while all men in this category have some role in decision-making.

5.4.5. Sex of Respondents and Participation in Family Matters

Table (5.16) examines whether there is any gender difference in the

participation of family matters.

The results show that in the case of pensioners, gender plays an

important role in the involvement in family matters. 75.29 percent of older men

reported that they are having complete control in decision-making at home, while

their proportion in the case of female pensioners is 27.38 percent. This indicates

that loss of control in decision-making was experienced more by older women

than men (Nayar, 1996). One-third of older women seek the support of their

husband or children for taking decisions in family. Further, greater participation in

decision-making is noticed among older women staying with children than with

spouse.

194

Table 5.16

Gender Wise Distribution of Elderly by their Participation in Family Matters

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

While analyzing the involvement in decision-making, no gender

difference is noted in the case of social security beneficiaries. 55.56 percent of

older men and 56.48 percent of older women do not have any role in decision-

making. The proportion of those older women who are having complete control in

the family matters was 24.07 percent while their proportion in the case of older

men were 27.78 percent. More than half of older women who stay with children

reported to have no role in household decision-making. Problems with children

and low contribution to family income restricted women‟s participation in family

matters. The survey findings show that in the case of lower income groups, factors

other than gender have an important role in determining elderly‟s participation.

5.4.6. Health Rating and Participation in Family Matters

Table (5.17) shows influence of health on elderly‟s participation in

family matters.

Sex of

respondents

Participation in family matters

Total

Com

ple

te

contr

ol

Join

t dec

isio

n

Par

tici

pat

e but

no r

ole

in

dec

isio

n

mak

ing

Do n

ot

inte

rfer

e

Not

info

rmed

Pen

sion

ers

Male 64

(75.29)

13

(15.29) 6(7.06) 2(2.35) 0 85(100)

Female 23

(27.38)

28

(33.33) 21(25) 3(3.57) 9(10.71) 84(100)

Total 87(51.48) 41(24.26) 27(15.98) 5(2.96) 9(5.32) 169(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es

Male 10

(27.78)

6

16.67) 6(16.67) 1(2.78) 13(36.11) 36(100)

Female 26(24.07) 21(19.44) 43(39.81) 2(1.85) 16(14.81) 108(100)

Total 36(25) 27

(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144(100)

195

Table 5.17

Rate of health and participation in family matters

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

It is evident from the data that in the case of pensioners, health status has

significant influence on involvement in family matters. Those elderly with

satisfied health status has a major or partial role in decision-making (79.50

percent) than those with dissatisfied health status (44.53 percent).

The survey data reveal a distinct picture in the case of social

security beneficiaries. If a person is not healthy, it reduces his or her chance to

participate in decision-making. It is seen that among the elderly with dissatisfied

health status 48.86 percent were having at least some role in decision-making,

while elderly with satisfied health status 35.71 percent reported to have some role

in decision-making at home. This suggests that among social security beneficiaries

variables other than health status has a significant role in determining participation

in family matters.

Health status

Participation in family matters

Total

Co

mp

lete

co

ntr

ol

Join

t d

ecis

ion

Par

tici

pat

e b

ut

no

role

in

dec

isio

n

mak

ing

Do

no

t in

terf

ere

No

t in

form

ed

Pen

sio

ner

s

Satisfied 68(55.74) 29(23.77) 14(11.48) 5(4.09) 6(4.92) 122(100)

Dissatisfied 19(40.42) 12(25.53) 13(27.66) 0 3(6.38) 47(100)

Total 87(51.48) 41(24.26) 27(15.98) 5(2.96) 9(5.32) 169(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty b

enef

icia

ries

Satisfied 9(16.07) 22(39.29) 12(21.43) 11(19.64) 2(3.57) 56(100)

Dissatisfied 27(30.68) 27(30.68) 17(19.32) 16(18.18) 1(1.14) 88(100)

Total 36(25) 27

(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144(100)

196

5.4.7. Martial status and Participation in Family Matters

Martial status has an important role in determining the

participation of elderly in family matters. Widowed parents appear to be less

frequently involved in household decision-making than others (Vijayakumar,

1999).

Table 5.18

Martial Status of Respondents and Participation in Family Matters

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

In the study area 35.50 percent of sample pensioners are widows.

Of this 45 percent of older persons do not have any role in the decision-making,

while among pensioners with spouse 63.11 percent reported to have complete

control in family matters. The results show that martial status has a significant

influence in the position of elderly in families.

Martial status Participation in family matters Total

Com

ple

te

contr

ol

Join

t dec

isio

n

Par

tici

pat

e but

no r

ole

in

dec

isio

n

mak

ing

Do n

ot

inte

rfer

e

Not

info

rmed

Pen

sion

ers

Married 65(63.11) 27(26.21) 7(6.79) 3(2.91) 1(97.08) 103(100)

Widowed 19(31.67) 14(23.33) 18(30) 2(3.33) 7(11.67) 60(100)

Unmarried/

divorced/

separated

3(50) 0 2(33.33) 0 1(16.67) 6(100)

Total 87(51.48) 41(24.26) 27(15.98) 5(2.96) 9(5.32) 169(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty b

enef

icia

ries

Married 11(26.19) 11(26.19) 7(16.67) 1(2.38) 12(28.57) 42(100)

Widowed 17(19.77) 15(17.44) 38(44.19) 1(1.16) 15(17.44) 86(100)

Unmarried/

divorced/

separated

8(47.06) 1(5.88) 4(23.53) 1(5.88) 2(11.76) 17(100)

Total 36(25) 27

(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144(100)

197

Like pensioners, significant influence of martial status on decision-

making is not reported in the case of social security beneficiaries. 26.19 percent of

the elderly who are married and 19.77 percent of the elderly who are widowed

reported complete participation in family matters. Nearly 63 percent of the

beneficiaries who are widowed do not have any role in family matters.

5.4.8. Participation in Family Matters and Monthly Income

Financial status of older persons has an important role in determining

their participation in family matters. Income of elderly and property rights and

ownership can be considered as indicators of financial status. Income is an

important determinant of an individual‟s involvement in decision-making.

Table 5.19

Participation in Family Matters and Monthly Income

Total monthly

income of

elderly

Pensioners

Participation in family matters Total

Com

ple

te

contr

ol

Join

t dec

isio

n

Par

tici

pat

e but

no r

ole

in

dec

isio

n

mak

ing

Donot

inte

rfer

e

Not

info

rmed

Less than 2000 1(20) 2(40) 1(20) 0 1(20) 5(100)

2000-4000 10(22.22) 15(33.33) 16(35.56) 0 4(8.89) 45(100)

4000-6000 32(72.73) 5(11.36) 5(11.36) 1(2.27) 1(2.27) 44(100)

6000-8000 25(64.10) 5(12.82) 4(10.26) 3(7.69) 2(5.13) 39(100)

8000-10000 12(52.17) 11(47.83) 0 0 0 23(100)

10000 and

above 7(53.85) 3(23.08) 1(7.69) 1(7.69) 1(7.69) 13(100)

Total 87(51.48) 41(24.26) 27(15.98) 5(2.96) 9(5.32) 169(100)

Social security

beneficiaries

Less than 500

27(24.32) 19(17.12) 38(34.23) 2(1.80) 25(22.52) 111(100)

500-1000 5(26.32) 2(10.53) 7(36.84) 1(5.26) 4(21.05) 19(100)

1000-1500 3(33.33) 4(44.45) 2(22.22) 0 0 9(100)

1500-2000 0 1(100) 0 0 0 1(100)

Above 2000 1(25) 1(25) 2(50) 0 0 4(100)

Total 36(25)

27

(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

198

It is evident from table (5.19) that there arises positive

association between income and participation in family matters. 44 percent of

elderly who earn monthly income less than Rs.4000 reported that they are not

consulted by children in taking decisions. In the case of pensioners with income

more than Rs.6000, 17.33 percent reported no role in decision-making. It is seen

from the data that as income increases elderly‟s participation in household

decision-making increases. But at higher level of income, their participation in

family matters has shown a decline. This is because at higher income group there

is a tendency among the elderly to not interfere in family matters. These trends are

noticed in region–wise analysis also. Greater involvement in decision-making in

family matters is seen among pensioners from Thiruvanthapuram district. They

contribute a major share in household expenditure. This made children to consult

them before taking decisions. Among elderly having monthly income more than

Rs.6000, it is found that older men (79.07 percent) are more consulted before

taking decisions than older women (31.25 percent).

Nearly 78 percent of the social security beneficiaries were having a

monthly income less than Rs.500. Out of this; about 59 percent does not have any

role in decision-making. As income increases, the proportion of elderly showing

high participation in decision-making has increased. Among the social security

beneficiaries, older persons earning income between Rs.1000-Rs.1500 showed

higher involvement in decision-making (33.33) than other income groups. Greater

participation in decision-making is noticed among males than females. But at

higher level of income, no gender difference is observed.

5.4.9. Ownership of House and Participation in Family Matters

Ownership of house is an important determinant influencing

participation in family matters. Older persons who have financial assets have

greater bargaining power in household decision-making than elderly without

financial assets.

199

Table 5.20

Distribution of Elderly by Ownership of House in Participation in Family

Matters

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Table (5.20) shows distribution of elderly by ownership of house and

participation in family matters. The survey data reveal that elderly staying in self

owned house has greater participation in family matters (59.29 percent) than

elderly staying in houses owned by children (25 percent). Even among elderly

staying in self-owned house, females (32.65 percent) have low participation or are

less consulted than males (79.69 percent). This difference is noticed in the case of

Ownership of

house

Pensioners

Participation in family matters Total

Com

ple

te

contr

ol

Join

t dec

isio

n

Par

tici

pat

e but

no r

ole

in

dec

isio

n

mak

ing

Donot

inte

rfer

e

Not

info

rmed

Self 67(59.29) 22(19.47) 18(15.93) 2(1.77) 4(3.54) 113(100)

Spouse 10(5.88) 5(29.41) 1(5.88) 1(5.88) 0 17(100)

Children 5(25) 8(40) 4(20) 2(10) 1(5) 20(100)

Others 1(7.69) 6(46.15) 3(23.08) 0 3(23.08) 13(100)

Rented 4(66.67) 0 1(16.67) 0 1(16.67) 6(100)

Total 87(51.48) 41(24.26) 27(15.98) 5(2.96) 9(5.32) 169(100)

Social security

beneficiaries

Self

22(25.88) 16(18.82) 29(34.12) 2(2.35) 16(18.82) 85(100)

Spouse 2(25) 1(12.50) 1(12.50) 0 4(50) 8(100)

Children 3(15) 3(15) 9(45) 1(5) 4(20) 20(100)

Others 4(20) 4(20) 8(40) 0 4(20) 20(100)

Rented 5(45.45) 3(27.27) 2(18.18) 0 1(9.09) 11(100)

Total 36(25)

27

(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144(100)

200

elderly living with children also. Only 46.15 percent of older women staying in

houses owned by children have participation in decision-making where as all the

older men in this category are consulted by children before taking decision at

home.

Similarly, in the case of social security beneficiaries, 85 percent of

elderly staying in houses owned by children has no role in decision-making at

home. While in the case of elderly staying in self-owned houses, 55.29 percent

reported no role in household decision-making. Only one-fourth of older women

and 28.57 percent of older men among the elderly living in self-owned houses

have greater role in decision-making. Among the older persons staying in self

owned houses, greater participation is seen in the case of older persons from

Thiruvanthapuram district. Majority of them stays either with spouse and children

or with spouse only.

5.4.10. Land Area Owned and Participation in Family Matters

Land area owned by elderly is an economic asset. Economic assets play

an important role in determining elderly‟s participation in family matters.

Among the elderly who do not possess land, 42.85 percent of pensioners

and 28 percent of social security beneficiaries transferred the ownership of land to

children. As land area owned by elderly increases, the proportion of elderly who

have some role in decision-making increases. Among elderly with no ownership of

land, 57.33 percent reported to have complete or partial participation in family

matters. Among elderly having ownership of land area between 60 cents and 1

acre, 85.71 percent reported to have some role in decision-making on family

matters. Gender-wise analysis shows that as the land area owned increases, more

participation in family matters were shown by older men than women. Among

elderly owning more than 60 cents of land all older men have complete control in

decision-making while it is only 33.30 percent for females. Among three age

groups though land area owned is positively associated with participation in

family matters, greater participation in decision-making is shown by older persons

in the age group 60-69.

201

Table 5.21

Participation in Family Matters and Land Area Owned

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

5.4.11. Participation in Family Matters and Economic Dependency Level

On the basis of the nature of dependence, levels of economic

dependence of elderly were categorized into three- not dependent, partially

dependent and fully dependent.

Land area

owned

Pensioners

Participation in family matters Total

Co

mp

lete

con

tro

l

Join

t d

ecis

ion

Par

tici

pat

e b

ut

no

role

in

dec

isio

n

mak

ing

Do

no

t in

terf

ere

No

t in

form

ed

No land 16(38.09) 14(33.33) 6(14.29) 2(4.76) 4(9.52) 42(100)

1-30 cents 58(56.86) 19(18.63) 19(18.63) 2(1.96) 4(3.92) 102(100)

30-60 cents 6(46.15) 5(38.46) 1(7.69) 0 1(7.69) 13(100)

60-1 acre 5(71.43) 1(14.29) 0 1(14.29) 0 7(100)

1-5 acres 2(40) 2(40) 1(20) 0 0 5(100)

Total 87(51.48) 41(24.26) 27(15.98) 5(2.96) 9(5.32) 169(100)

Social security

beneficiaries

No land

14 (28) 11(22) 13(26) 1(2) 11(22) 50(100)

1-30 cents 20(22.22) 16(17.78) 35(38.89) 2(2.22) 17(18.89) 90(100)

30-60 cents 2(50) 0 1(25) 0 1(25) 4(100)

Total 36(25) 27

(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144(100)

202

Table 5.22

Participation in Family Matters on the Basis of their Dependency Level

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

34.5 percent reported that they are totally dependent on children for

basic and financial needs. 10 percent of pensioners and 63.20 percent of social

security beneficiaries reported full dependence on children for their needs. Table

(22) shows strong relation between dependency level and decision-making in

family members. 80.33 percent of elderly who have independent means of support

expressed complete control in family matters. Only 11.80 percent of elderly who

are completely dependent on children reported to have a major role in household

decision-making. The results show that as the dependency level increases, the

proportion of elderly who are consulted in family matters decreases. Similar is the

Level of

economic

dependence

Participation in family matters

Total

Com

ple

te

contr

ol

Join

t dec

isio

n

Par

tici

pat

e but

no r

ole

in

dec

isio

n

mak

ing

Donot

inte

rfer

e

Not

info

rmed

Pen

sion

ers

Not

dependent 48(78.69) 2(3.27) 3(4.92) 4(6.56) 4(6.56) 61(100)

Partially

dependent 37(40.66) 33(36.26) 17(18.68) 1(1.09) 3(3.29) 91(100)

Fully

dependent 2(11.76) 6(35.29) 7(41.18) 0 2(11.76) 17(100)

Total 87(51.48) 41(24.26) 27(15.98) 5(2.96) 9(5.32) 169(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es

Not

dependent 14(53.85) 3(11.54) 5(19.23) 1(3.85) 3(11.54) 26(100)

Partially

dependent 10(37.04) 6(22.22) 7(25.93) 1(3.70) 3(11.11) 27(100)

Fully

dependent 12(13.19) 18(19.78) 37(40.65) 1(1.09) 23(25.27) 91(100)

Total

36(25)

27

(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144(100)

203

trend in the case of social security beneficiaries also. Thus loss of income and

dependence on economic matters lead to a depletion of elderly‟s authority in

family (Gore, 1997). Age-wise analysis shows that as age increases, the

dependency of elderly on children increases. The proportion of elderly who are

totally dependent on children in the age group 60+ was 4.1 percent and 58.20

percent for pensioners and social security beneficiaries respectively. At the age of

80 and above, one-fourth of pensioners and three-fourth of social security

beneficiaries were dependent on children.

5.5. Socio-economic Problems Faced by Elderly

Traditionally in India, as mentioned earlier, older persons enjoyed a

respectable position in the family and society. Changing economic and social

structure and values in the country had resulted in declining support from families.

This along with adverse financial and health conditions made the position of

elderly more vulnerable. It is found that major socio-economic problems faced by

the older persons in the locality includes financial problems, loneliness, rude

behaviour of children, unfinished task, health problems, lack of friends, physical

immobility and economic exploitation by children.

The needs and problems of elderly vary significantly according to

their age, socio-economic status and health (Kumar and Navneet Anand, 2006). In

the previous paragraphs we made an attempt to associate these variables. From

those discussions it was found that place of residence, gender and income are the

important variables associated to the problems of elderly. Thus below an attempt

is made to identify the major problems with respect to these variables.

5.5.1. Problems Faced by Elderly and Place of Residence

Hussain (1997) felt that elderly residing in urban area faces more

economic, psychological and adjustments problems than those in rural area.

Table (5.23) examines rural-urban difference in the problems faced by pensioners

and social security beneficiaries.

204

Table 5.23

Socio-economic Problems Faced by Elderly on the Basis of Place of Residence

Place of

residence

Major problems faced by elderly (in percentages)

Fin

anci

al

pro

ble

m

Lonel

ines

s

Rude

beh

avio

ur

of

chil

dre

n

Unfi

nis

hed

tas

k

Hea

lth

pro

ble

ms

Lac

k o

f fr

iends

Physi

cal

imm

obil

ity

Oth

er p

roble

ms

Eco

nom

ic

explo

itat

ion by

chil

dre

n

Pen

sion

ers

Rural

37.6

1

44

.04

10.0

9

14.6

8

60.5

5

10.0

9

34.8

6

7.3

3

4.5

8

Urban 50

38.3

3

8.3

3

30

50

18.3

3

23.3

3

13.3

3

5

Total

42.0

1

42.0

1

9.4

7

20.1

2

56.8

0

13.0

1

30.7

7

9.4

7

4.7

3

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es

Rural

84.5

5

65.8

5

19.5

1

18.6

9

91.8

7

12.1

9

56.0

9

8.1

3

3.2

5

Urban

90.4

7

52.3

8

33.3

3

14.2

9

90.4

8

9.5

2

66.6

7

9.5

2

0

Total

85.4

1

63.8

9

21.5

3

18.0

5

91.6

7

11.8

1

57.6

4

8.3

3

2.7

8

Source: Primary survey.

Financial problem is more acute in the case of elderly in urban areas.

High cost of living in urban areas made both pensioners (50 percent) and social

security beneficiaries (90.47 percent) to face financial problem. Since the

commonly found family system in urban areas is nuclear, we normally expect

older persons in urban area face the problem of loneliness than their rural

counterparts. Contrary to this pattern, problem of loneliness is found to be higher

among the pensioners (44.04 percent) and social security beneficiaries (65.85

percent) in rural area. Migration of children to urban area for employment or

children‟s preference to live alone leaving elderly to stay alone at home may be

205

one of the reasons for this. Lack of better health care facilities made health

condition of elderly more adverse. It is observed that there is no noted difference

between social security beneficiaries in rural and urban areas. 91.87 percent of

rural beneficiaries and 90.48 percent of urban beneficiaries reported poor health as

the main problem. Since most of the social security beneficiaries lack adequate

income, they are not in a position to utilize the available facilities in urban area.

Usually in urban area people donot have close interaction with neighbors. This is

also reported as a problem. After retirement many of the pensioners do not have

any contact with their friends. 12.19 percent of social security beneficiaries point

out that they miss friends to share their problems.

5.5.2. Problems Faced by the Elderly-A Sex-wise Analysis

We examined whether there is any difference in the problems faced by

elderly. Studies show that older women will be living in more vulnerable situation

than men (Dharmalingam,1994; Rajan,2010). Reduction in regular income will

make their situation more aggravated as they do not have sufficient financial assets

or property.

The study findings reveal that there exist gender differences in the problem

faced by elderly. In all the listed socio-economic problems older women

outnumbered males. After retirement, females are more affected by financial

problems, health problems, loneliness etc. Nearly 6 percent of older women suffer

from economic exploitation from children than older women (3.5 percent). Older

men (25.88 percent) were more worried about unsettled children or daughter‟s

marriage than older women (14.29 percent). This is because it is usually

considered as the responsibility of men. In the case of social security beneficiaries,

older women are more affected by financial problem (86.11 percent) and

loneliness (65.74 percent). Poor health prevents women from engaging in

employment at old age. This along with lack of assets made older women to

experience financial difficulty. But the gender difference is not as widened as in

the case of pensioners.

206

Table 5.24

Gender wise Distribution of Elderly on the Basis of Socio-economic Problems

Sex of

respondents

Major problems faced by elderly (in Percentages)

Fin

anci

al

pro

ble

m

Lonel

ines

s

Rude

beh

avio

ur

of

chil

dre

n

Unfi

nis

hed

tas

k

Hea

lth

pro

ble

ms

Lac

k o

f fr

iends

Physi

cal

imm

obil

ity

Oth

er p

roble

ms

Eco

nom

ic

explo

itat

ion b

y

chil

dre

n

Pen

sion

ers

Male

40

30.5

9

2.3

5

25.8

8

45.8

8

12.9

4

25.8

8

8.2

4

3.5

3

Female

44.0

5

53.5

7

16.6

7

14.2

9

67.8

6

13.0

9

35.7

1

10.7

1

5.9

5

Total

42.0

1

42-0

1

9.4

7

20.1

2

56.8

0

13.0

2

30.7

7

9.4

7

4.7

3

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es

Male

83.3

3

58.3

3

27.7

8

22.2

2

94.4

4

11.1

1

55.5

6

8.3

3

2.7

8

Female

86.1

1

65.7

4

19.4

4

16.6

7

90.7

1

12.0

4

58.3

3

8.3

3

2.7

8

Total

85.4

1

63.8

9

21.5

3

18.0

6

91.6

7

11.8

1

57.6

4

8.3

3

2.7

8

Source: Primary survey.

Older men reported more cases of rude behaviour from children than

women. This may be because of reluctance on the part of women to disclose

misbehaviour of children. No significant association existed between martial status

of elderly and the socio-economic problems faced by them.

5.5.3. Income and Problems Faced by Elderly

Analysis in the previous section examined the role of income in

determining the problems faced by elderly. Most of the problems faced by a

person at old age are mainly due to decline in income or lack of regular income.

Therefore we assessed whether income has any influence in the problems faced by

elderly.

207

Table 5.25

Problems Faced by Elderly and Monthly Income

Total

monthly

income of

elderly

Pensioners

Major problems faced by elderly (in Percentages)

Fin

anci

al

pro

ble

m

Lonel

ines

s

Rude

beh

avio

ur

of

chil

dre

n

Unfi

nis

hed

task

Hea

lth

pro

ble

ms

Lac

k o

f

frie

nds

Physi

cal

imm

obil

ity

Oth

er

pro

ble

ms

Eco

nom

ic

explo

itat

ion

by c

hil

dre

n

Less than

2000 60 80 40 20 60 40 20 0 0

2000-4000 62.22 51.11 15.56 15.56 82.22 8.89 44.44 11.11 8.89

4000-6000 56.82 38.64 2.27 29.55 52.27 15.91 20.45 6.82 4.55

6000-8000 25.64 38.46 5.13 20.51 56.41 7.69 38.46 10.26 2.56

8000-10000 13.04 26.09 8.69 13.04 47.83 17.39 26.09 8.69 0

10000 and

above 15.38 46.15 15.38 15.38 0 15.38 7.69 15.38 7.69

Total 42.01 42.01 9.47 20.12 56.80 13.02 30.77 9.47 4.73

Social

security

beneficiaries

Less than

500

88.29 63.06 20.72 18.92 92.79 10.81 63.96 7.21 0

500-1000 78.95 78.95 26.32 21.05 84.21 15.79 47.37 10.53 5.26

1000-1500 66.67 44.44 22.22 0 88.89 11.11 22.22 11.11 11.11

1500-2000 100 100 0 0 100 0 0 0 100

Above 2000 75 50 25 25 100 25 25 25 25

Total 85.42 63.89 21.53 18.06 91.67 11.81 57.64 8.33 2.78

Source: Primary survey

Among pensioners in the study area, major problems reported were health

problems (56.80 percent) followed by financial and loneliness (42.01 percent).

Table (5.25) shows an association between income and problems faced by elderly.

Nearly half or in some case more than half of the pensioners having listed

problems belong to low income group (i.e, monthly income less than Rs. 4000).

As income increases, there is a tendency to reduce the problems faced by elderly

mainly because of their accessibility to any facility easily. Fall in regular income,

along with unsettled children made the position of elderly with low income more

208

vulnerable. Unlike pensioners, social security beneficiaries do not have any

official age for retirement. They receive negligible amount as social security

benefits. Thus the problem faced by them will be more severe than elderly in the

organized sector. Most of them are still working at this old age. Analyzing the

problems faced by social security beneficiaries, it is found that an increase in

income alone will not be able to reduce the problems faced by them. Among social

security beneficiaries, majority reported their adverse health condition (91.67

percent) as the main problem followed by poor financial condition (85.42 percent).

These two problems are interrelated also.

The above paragraphs analyses the utilization pattern of pension

and social security measures. It is found that both pensioners and social security

beneficiaries faces found difficult to meet their expenditure with pension amount.

Financial difficulties force 32.64 percent of social security beneficiaries to

continue work at old age. This point out the inadequacy of social security benefits

in the state. It is found that greater participation in decision-making is shown by

pensioners than social security beneficiaries. Their participation in decision-

making at home varies with the family nature, place of residence health status,

income and age. Financial problems, loneliness, rude behaviour of children,

unfinished task, health problems, missing of friends, physical immobility and

economic exploitation by children are pointed out as the major socio-economic

problems faced by older persons in the locality.

5.6. Life Satisfaction of Elderly

Life satisfaction can be considered as a proxy for measuring the quality of

life of elderly. Individuals undergo a decline in satisfaction with retirement from

service (Bell, 1978) or old age. In this section, we made an attempt to identify the

factors that influence the life satisfaction of elderly. A life satisfaction index was

constructed on the basis of 20 statements. The respondents were given five

choices, like Likert type Scale (strongly disagree, disagree, no opinion, agree, and

strongly agree). Positive values (one and two) were given for the choice agree and

strongly agree. Negatives values (-1 and -2) were given for the choice disagree and

strongly disagree and a score of zero for no opinion (Thurstone and Likert.,1933)

209

Satisfaction index level is calculated using the following formulae (Kerlinger,

1973)

Table 5.26

Statement Wise Score Obtained by Pensioners and Social Security Beneficiaries

Statement

Level of satisfaction

Pensioners Social security

beneficiaries

Happy to be an elderly 54.44 (medium) -11.81 (low)

Good relationship with in-laws 38.46 (medium) -10.42 (low)

Proud of children and their life 83.43 (high) 52.78 (medium)

Satisfied with present living

arrangements

94.67 (high) 70.83 (high)

Always consulted at home 47.93 (medium) 8.33 (low)

Getting special care at home 78.11 (high) 31.25 (low)

Good relation with grand

children

98.82 (high) 77.08 (high)

I am healthy 21.30 (low) 83.33 (high)

Have reasonable income 5.33 (low) -133.33 (Very low)

I am secured 28.99 (low) -93.75 (low)

Not alone have support 40.83 (medium) -18.75 (low)

Not disturbed and not worried -60.36 (low) -112.5 ( Very low)

Happy with living habits of

younger generation

1.78 (low) -2.78 (low)

Not worried about fall in moral

values and ethics

0 (low) 8.33 (low)

Have individual and social

freedom

94.08 (high) 95.26 (high)

Experience and expertise is

valued

17.75 (low) -27.08 (low)

Feel my life is a success 73.96 (high) 7.64 (low)

Presence is a blessing in the

family

96.45 (high) 29.17 (low)

Ample opportunities for

recreation of the old

85.21 (high) 34.03 (medium)

Always use voting rights 125.44 ( Very high) 144.44 (Very high)

Source: Computed from primary data

Index = f1 x -2 + f2 x -1 + f3 x 1 + f4 x2 / N x 2 where f1 is the frequency

of respondents who said strongly disagree, f2 is the frequency of respondents who

said disagree, f3 is the frequency of respondents who said agree and f4 is the

frequency of respondents who said strongly agree. N is the total number of

respondents who responded and 2 is maximum possible score. The obtained index

210

values were classified into five levels as very low, low, medium, high and very

high, with equal weightage.

Elderly were asked about their attitude towards ageing. Though

pensioners expressed medium satisfaction, social security beneficiaries expressed

very low satisfaction. This is contrary to the study findings of Lu et al (2009)

which shows that aged possessed a positive attitude towards ageing. Traditionally,

wisdom and experience of the older persons are pertinent to major family tasks

(Selby and Mal Schechter, 1982). In the study area, it is noted that the values

scored by pensioners (17.75) and social security beneficiaries (-27.08) are low.

This shows that in modern societies, elderly feels that their experience and

expertise are not valued by children. It is noticed that in all the variables

(behaviour of younger generation, fall in ethics) older persons in the study area

expressed low satisfaction. Relations with grandchildren are an important factor

associated with the wellbeing and satisfaction of elderly. The results confirm high

value representing relation with grandchildren. It is found that pensioners show

high satisfaction in care received at home, available recreational facilities and their

present living arrangement. Social security beneficiaries scored low in majority of

variables. Table (5.27) shows a clear picture about the life satisfaction scores of

pensioners and social security beneficiaries in the study regions

Table 5.27

Life Satisfaction Score of Pensioners and Social Security Beneficiaries

Level of

satisfaction

Pensioners Social security

beneficiaries

Total

Very low 15 (8.88) 60 (41.67) 75(23.96)

Low 45 (26.63) 57 (39.58) 102(32.59)

Medium 90 (53.25) 24 (16.67) 114 (36.42)

High 18 (10.65) 3 (2.08) 21 (6.71)

Very high 1 (0.59) 0 1(0.32)

Total 169 (100) 144 (100) 313 (100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

211

Over all level of life satisfaction scores shows the better position of

pensioners in the study area. It is found that more than 80 percent of the social

security beneficiaries in the study regions are experiencing very low or low life

satisfaction, while their proportion is only 35.51 percent. Thus the results show

significant differences in the satisfaction level of pensioners and social security

beneficiaries. Several factors would have contributed to this difference in the

satisfaction level which requires a more detailed investigation.

A feeling of satisfaction in life can be considered as an indicator of

successful ageing. Life satisfaction of elderly is associated with income, gender,

independence etc. In the following section we examine the factors affecting the

life satisfaction of elderly.

5.6.1. Place of Residence and Total Life Satisfaction.

Place of residence has significant influence in determining the

life satisfaction of elderly. Satisfaction in life is to a good extent decided and

determined on the basis of the ability of older persons to adjust to changes in

society. Compared to rural elderly, urban elderly may face a fall in life satisfaction

since they find difficult to adjust to the fast changes in urban area. Table (5.28)

shows the life satisfaction scores of elderly in rural and urban area.

Table 5.28

Area-Wise Life Satisfaction Score of Elderly

Place of residence Overall life satisfaction of elderly Total

Very low Low Medium High Very

high

Pensioners Rural 13(11.93) 30(27.52) 59(54.13) 6(5.50) 1(0.92) 109(100)

Urban 2(3.33) 15(25) 31(51.67) 12(20) 0 60(100)

Total 15(8.88) 45(26.63) 90(53.25) 18(10.65) 1(0.59) 169(100)

Social

security

beneficiaries

Rural 50(40.65) 50(40.65) 20(16.26) 3(2.44) 0 123(100)

Urban 10(47.62) 7(33.33) 4(19.05) 0 0 21(100)

Total 60(41.67) 57(39.58) 24(16.67) 3(2.08) 0 144(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey.

212

Majority of pensioners in the rural (54.13 percent) and urban area

(51.67 percent) expressed moderate satisfaction in their living condition.

Compared to the rural area, urban pensioners (20 percent) are highly satisfied in

life than rural pensioners (6.42 percent). Availability of better health and

recreational facilities may be the reasons for this.

Unlike pensioners, majority of social security beneficiaries in rural

and urban area showed less satisfaction with life. Only 2.44 percent of rural

beneficiaries scored high in life satisfaction index, while no single beneficiary in

urban area was able to attain higher level of life satisfaction. The low proportion

of elderly in high satisfied category is mainly due to their financial difficulties,

poor health and problems with children.

5.6.2. Age of Respondents and Total Life Satisfaction

Age is a significant factor in determining the life satisfaction of elderly.

Evidences suggest that life satisfaction declines with age in most of the world

(Deaton, 2008). Gwozdz and Alfonso Sousa (2009) observed a significant decline

in the life satisfaction of elderly aged 85 and above.

Table 5.29

Age Wise Distribution of Elderly on the Basis of Life Satisfaction Score

Age of

respondents

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Pen

sion

ers 60-69 7(7.14) 23(23.47) 55(56.12) 13(13.27) 0 98(100)

70-79 6(9.52) 20(31.75) 31(49.21) 5(7.94) 1(1.59) 63(100)

80+ 2(25) 2(25) 4(50) 0 0 8(100)

Total 15(8.88) 45(26.63) 90(53.25) 18(10.65) 1(0.59) 169(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es 60-69 24(43.64) 19(34.55) 10(18.18) 2(3.64) 0 55(100)

70-79 27(48.21) 21(37.50) 8(14.29) 0 0 56(100)

80+ 9(27.27) 17(51.52) 6(18.18) 1(3.03) 0 33 (100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67) 3 (2.08) 0

144

(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

The survey results show that in the case of pensioners, the proportion

of elderly who expressed low life satisfaction increases with age. This is in

213

conformity with earlier studies (Lennings, 2000: Doyle and Marilyn J.Forehand,

1984). In the case of social security beneficiaries, the proportion of elderly who

expressed less life satisfaction has increased from 43.64 percent in the age group

60+ to 48.21 percent in the age group 70+. It is found that for age group 80+ the

proportion of elderly with low satisfaction has shown a decline. Among social

security beneficiaries, older persons in the age group 70+ scored less on life

satisfaction. Most of the social security beneficiaries continue work even after 60

years but find difficult to continue work after 70+. Elderly in this age group faces

large number of adjustment problems and financial problems leading to lower life

satisfaction. Some studies conducted earlier show that life satisfaction increases

among oldest old (Melendez et al, 2008) and they are more satisfied with life than

the young old (Mercier et al 1998).

5.6.3. Sex of Respondents and Total Life Satisfaction

Table (5.30) examined whether there is any gender difference in the

life satisfaction of elderly.

Table 5.30

Gender Wise Distribution of Elderly on The Basis of Life Satisfaction Score

Sex of

respondents

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Pen

sion

ers Male 4(4.71) 16(18.82) 51(60) 13(15.29) 1(1.18) 85(100)

Female 11(13.09) 29(34.53) 39(46.43) 5(5.95) 0 84(100)

Total 15(8.88) 45(26.63) 90(53.25) 18(10.65) 1(0.59) 169(100)

Soci

al

secu

rity

ben

efic

iari

es

Male 15(41.67) 14(38.89) 7(19.44) 0 0 36(100)

Female 45(41.67) 43(39.81) 17(15.74) 3(2.78) 0 108(100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67) 3 (2.08) 0

144

(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

The study findings show that male pensioners expressed more

satisfaction in the life than female pensioners. The proportion of female pensioners

with low life satisfaction (13.09 percent) is about three times more than male

pensioners (4.71 percent) in the study regions. Among the pensioners with high

214

life satisfaction, older men and older women constitute 72.20 percent and 27.80

percent respectively. Though older women are having pension, loss of spouse,

poor health condition and feeling of burden to children may lower their life

satisfaction. This low proportion of older women is similar to the findings of

earlier studies (Sharma and Chadha, 2006: Chadha, 2003) which show that older

women expressed low life satisfaction than men. Analyzing the life satisfaction of

social security beneficiaries, no significant gender difference is noticed. Only 2.78

percent of older women expressed high life satisfaction, while no single male

beneficiary scored high value in life satisfaction. This may be because older

women receiving social security benefits have more interaction with relatives or

neighbours than older men. Further, older women are more likely to get support

from children than older men.

5.6.4. Family Nature and Life Satisfaction of Elderly

Table (5.31) examines whether family nature has a significant

influence on the life satisfaction of elderly.

Table 5.31

Life Satisfaction Score of Elderly on the Basis of Family Nature

Family nature

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Pen

sion

ers Nuclear 6(8.22) 16(21.92) 42(57.53) 9(12.33) 0 73(100)

Joint 9(9.38) 29(30.21) 48(50) 9(9.38) 1(1.04) 96(100)

Total 15 (8.88) 45

(26.63)

90

(53.25)

18

(10.65)

1

(59.17)

169

(100)

Soci

al

secu

rity

ben

efic

iari

es

Nuclear 27(55.10) 18(36.74) 2(4.08) 2(4.08) 0 49(100)

Joint 33(34.74) 39(41.05) 22(23.16) 1(1.05) 0 95(100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67) 3 (2.08) 0

144

(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Pensioners in nuclear families expressed high life satisfaction

than those in joint families. Elderly staying with unmarried children expressed

more satisfaction in life than those staying with married children. Older persons in

nuclear families still enjoy their authoritative position since they contribute a

215

major share in family income. This respectful position in the family may be the

reason for their high satisfaction.

In the case of social security beneficiaries, beneficiaries in joint

families are relatively better off than their counterparts in nuclear families. Though

in high life satisfaction category, beneficiaries in nuclear families (4.08 percent)

outnumber those in joint families (1.05 percent), 91.83 percent of older persons in

nuclear families scored low in life satisfaction compared to 75.79 percent in joint

families. Greater proportion of older persons with low life satisfaction in nuclear

families is mainly due to their financial difficulties. They have to find their own

resources for their basic needs even at this old age.

5.6.5. Health and Life Satisfaction

Health status of elderly is considered as a significant determinant

of life satisfaction (Bowling, 1990: Bowling et al, 1993: Hillers et al, 2001,

Iwatsubo et al, 1996). There exists positive association between self rated health

status and life satisfaction (Yi and James.W.Vaupel 2002; Walker, 2005; Svensson

et al, 1999).

Table 5.32

Life Satisfaction Score of Elderly on the Basis of Health Status

Self rated health

status

Overall life satisfaction of elderly Total

Very low Low Medium High Very high

Pen

sioner

s

Satisfied 7(5.74) 31(25.41) 66(54.09) 17(13.94) 1(81.97) 122(100)

dissatisfied 8(17.02) 14(29.79) 24(51.06) 1(2.13) 0 47

Total 15 (8.88) 45

(26.63)

90

(53.25)

18

(10.65)

1 (59.17) 169

(100)

So

cial

secu

rity

ben

efic

iari

es Satisfied 21(37.50) 17(30.36) 16(28.57) 2(3.57) 0 56(100)

dissatisfied 39(44.32) 40(45.45) 8(9.09) 1(1.14) 0 88(100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67)

3 (2.08) 0 144

(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

The results in table (5.32) show positive relation between the health

status of elderly and their life satisfaction. Among elderly with satisfied health

status, only 5.74 percent of elderly scored very low in life satisfaction, while 17.02

percent of elderly with low health status rated life satisfaction as very low. The

216

greater number of older women with low health condition and life satisfaction is

an indication of their vulnerable position.

In the case of social security beneficiaries, 67.86 percent of elderly who

assessed their health status as satisfactory are experiencing very low or low life

satisfaction, while 89.77 percent of elderly with dissatisfied health status were

rated life satisfaction as low or very low. Thus survey results confirm the findings

of studies mentioned earlier that health status of a person is positively associated

with life satisfaction

5.6.6. Marital status and Total Life Satisfaction

Marital status has significant effect in determining the life satisfaction

of elderly (Iwatsubo et al, 1996).

Table (5.33)

Life Satisfaction of Elderly on the Basis of Martial Status

Martial status

of elderly

Overall life satisfaction of elderly Total

Very low Low Medium High Very

high

Pen

sion

ers

Married 4(3.88) 23(22.33) 60(58.25) 15(14.56) 1(0.98) 103(100)

Widowed 10(16.67) 21(35) 28(46.67) 1(1.67) 0 60(100)

Unmarried/

divorced/

separated

1(16.67) 1(16.67) 2(33.33) 2(33.33) 0 6(100)

Total 15 (8.88) 45

(26.63)

90

(53.25)

18

(10.65)

1

(59.17)

169

(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es

Married 16(38.10) 18(42.86) 8(19.04) 0 0 42(100)

Widowed 35(40.69) 33(38.37) 15(17.44) 3(3.45) 0 86(100)

Unmarried/

divorced/

Separated

9(56.25) 6(37.50) 1(6.25) 0 0 16(100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67)

3 (2.08) 0 144

(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Nearly 16 percent of married elderly expressed high satisfaction in

life compared to 4.54 percent of elderly who are unmarried, widowed or divorced.

It is found that 22.78 percent of male pensioners with spouse scored low in life

satisfaction, while their proportion is 50 percent in the case of widowed male

pensioners. Loss of spouse among older men is related to lower life satisfaction

217

(Berg et al, 2009). The corresponding figures for female pensioners are 37.50

percent and 51.79 percent respectively. The result shows that martial status has

significant effect on life satisfaction of older men than older women. Among

social security beneficiaries, it is seen that 80.95 percent of elderly who are

married and 81.37 percent of elderly who are widowed or separated are

experiencing low life satisfaction.

5.6.7. Participation in Religious Activities and Life Satisfaction of Elderly

Regular or active participation in religious activities has a

positive effect on life satisfaction (Kozaryn, 2009, Shkolnik et al, 2001). Table

(5.34) shows the effect of religious involvement on life satisfaction of elderly.

Table 5.34

Participation in Religious Activities and Life Satisfaction of Elderly

Participation in

religious activities

Overall life satisfaction of elderly Total

Very low Low Medium High Very

high

Pen

sioner

s

Regular or

active

6(4.88) 34(27.64) 68(55.28) 14(11.38) 1(8.12) 123(100)

Occasionally 5(16.67) 6(20) 17(56.67) 2(6.67) 0 30(100)

Interested but

no opportunity

3(50) 1(16.67) 2(33.33) 0 0 6(100)

Not interested 1(11.11) 3(33.33) 3(33.33) 2(22.23) 0 9(100)

No participation 0 1(100) 0 0 0 1(100)

Total 15 (8.88) 45

(26.63)

90

(53.25)

18

(10.65)

1 (59.17) 169

(100)

So

cial

sec

uri

ty b

enef

icia

ries

Regular or

active

24(31.17) 36(46.75) 16(20.78) 1(1.30) 0 77(100)

Occasionally 16(44.44) 11(30.56) 8(22.22) 1(2.78) 0 36(100)

Interested but

no opportunity

4(50) 3(37.50) 0 1(12.50) 0 8

Not interested 13(72.22) 5(27.78) 0 0 0 18(100)

No participation 3(60) 2(40) 0 0 0 5(100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67)

3 (2.08) 0 144

(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

218

Among the pensioners who have high life satisfaction, 88.89 percent

have regular or occasional participation in religious activities. 56.25 percent of

elderly with no active or occasional participation tend to have low life satisfaction.

Participation in religious activities at old age may provide some relief to elderly.

Male pensioners with regular participation in religious activities show more

satisfaction in life than older women. Among social security beneficiaries who are

not interested in religious activities, no beneficiaries were able to score high on

life satisfaction index. Even among those who reported active or occasional

participation, the proportion of elderly who expressed high life satisfaction is low.

This may indicate that other than participation in religious activities, economic

dependency of beneficiaries also contributed to life satisfaction.

5.6.8. Education Qualification and Life Satisfaction of Elderly

Education plays an important role in the well-being of elderly (Yi and

James.W.Vaupel,2002). Higher educational qualifications would have lead to

better employment and ultimately better life satisfaction even at old age. Thus

educational status of elderly is a determinant of life satisfaction of elderly (jo,

2009, Subasia, 2005).

Analyzing the life satisfaction of pensioners, it is found that as

level of education increases, the proportion of elderly with low life satisfaction

declines. 70 percent of older persons reported low life satisfaction among the

elderly having primary education. Their proportion declined to 18.18 percent in

the case of elderly having graduation. This indicates that better employment in the

past has resulted in reasonable pension and savings after retirement. Better income

after retirement may lead to more life satisfaction. It is also noticed that at higher

educational level, there is a tendency to decline satisfaction among elderly.

Unsettled children, problems with children and in-laws etc were reported as the

reasons for this decline. In the case of social security beneficiaries, no significant

positive relation is exhibited between educational qualifications and life

satisfaction. Except beneficiaries having primary or secondary qualifications, in all

other cases, more than 80 percent of the beneficiaries reported low life

satisfaction. Low occupational status of the social security beneficiaries lead to

lesser satisfaction in life.

219

Table 5.35

Educational Qualification and Life Satisfaction of Elderly

Educational

qualification

Pensioners

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Illiterate 0 8(66.67) 4(33.33) 0 0 12(100)

Primary 3(30) 4(40) 3(30) 0 0 10(100)

Upper

primary 2(10) 7(35) 9(45) 2(10) 0 20(100)

Secondary 6(80) 16(21.33) 43(57.34) 10(10.33) 0 75(100)

Higher

secondary 2(20) 2(20) 3(30) 3(30) 0 10(100)

Graduation 2(9.09) 2(9.09) 16(72.73) 2(9.09) 0 22(100)

Post

graduation 0 2(66.67) 1(33.33) 0 0 3(100)

Others 0 4(23.53) 11(64.71) 1(5.88) 1(5.88) 17(100)

Total 15 45 90 18 1 169

Social

security

beneficiaries

Illiterate

40(50.63) 28(35.44) 9(11.39) 2(2.53) 0 79(100)

Primary 8(27.58) 14(48.28) 7(24.14) 0 0 29(100)

Upper

primary 10(45.45) 8(36.36) 4(18.18) 0 0 22(100)

Secondary 2(15.38) 6(46.15) 4(30.77) 1(7.69) 0 13(100)

Higher

secondary 0 1(100) 0 0 0 1(100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58) 24 (16.67) 3 (2.08) 0

144

(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

5.6.9. Living Arrangements and Total Life Satisfaction

Living arrangements has significant effect in deciding the life

satisfaction of elderly (Young An et al 2008). Ho et al (1995) found that those

elderly with satisfactory living arrangement reported greater life satisfaction.

220

Table 5.36

Life Satisfaction of Elderly on the Basis of Living Arrangements

Overall life

satisfaction of

elderly

Living arrangements

Total

Wit

h c

hil

dre

n

and

gra

nd

chil

dre

n,

no

spo

use

Wit

h s

pou

se

and

chil

dre

n

Wit

h s

pou

se

no

ch

ild

Liv

ing

alo

ne

Wit

h

rela

tiv

es

Pen

sio

ner

s

Very

low 8(53.33) 3 (20) 1(6.67) 2(13.33) 1(6.67) 15(100)

Low 17 (37.78) 18 (40) 5 (11.11) 5(11.11) 0 45(100)

Medium 23 (25.56) 40 (44.44) 20

(22.22) 5(5.56) 2(2.22) 90(100)

High 2(11.11) 10(55.56) 5()27.28 0 1(0.56) 18 (100)

Very

high 0 1(100) 0 0 0 1(100)

Total 50 (29.59) 72 (42.60) 31

(18.34) 12 (7.10) 4( 2.36) 169(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty b

enef

icia

ries

Very

low 18(30) 12(20) 4(6.67) 17 (28.33) 9 (15) 60(100)

Low 29 (50.88) 13 (22.81) 5 (8.77) 4 (7.01) 6 (10.53) 57 (100)

Medium 15(62.50) 8 (33.33) 0 0 1 (4.17) 24 (100)

High 2 (66.67) 0 0 1 (33.33) 0 3(100)

Very

high 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total 64 (44.44) 33 (22.92) 9 (6.25) 22(15.28) 16(11.11) 144 (100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Among pensioners, 82.30 percent of elderly with high life satisfaction

lives either with spouse and children or with spouse only. It is observed that 50

percent of elderly who stays with relatives or alone scored low in life satisfaction.

This shows that in the case of pensioners, presence of spouse has an important role

in determining the life satisfaction of elderly. In the case of social security

beneficiaries, majority of elderly (92.59 percent) having high or very high life

satisfaction stays either with children or spouse. Those elderly staying with

relatives (93.75 percent) or living alone (95.45 percent) are experiencing low or

221

very low life satisfaction. These older persons have to depend on their relatives or

others for their basic necessities which made them score low in life satisfaction.

5.6.10. Major Care Provider and Life Satisfaction of Elderly

Family provides main support to elderly which made them more

satisfied in life (Prema et al 2009). The emotional and financial support provided

by children is an indicator of life satisfaction of elderly. Oztop et al (2009)

indicates a negative relationship between older person‟s life satisfaction and the

degree to which they receive help from their children. Table (5.37) examines the

impact of support received by elderly from children or relatives on life

satisfaction.

Table 5.37

Major Care Provider and Life Satisfaction of Elderly

Major

supporter

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Spouse 0 3(27.27) 8(72.72) 0 0 11(100)

Children 5(14.29) 9(25.71) 17(48.57) 3(8.57) 1(2.86) 35(100)

Relatives 0 0 1(100) 0 0 1(100)

Alone 9(14.06) 17(26.56) 30(46.87) 8(12.50) 0 64(100)

Jointly with

spouse 0 4(13.79) 21 (72.41) 4(13.79) 0 29(100)

Jointly with

children 1(3.44) 12(41.38) 13(44.83) 3(10.34) 0 29(100)

Total 15(8.88) 45 (26.63) 90 (53.25) 18 (10.65) 1(0.59) 169

Spouse 4 (80) 0 1(20) 0 0 5(100)

Children 20(24.39) 40(48.78) 20(24.39) 2(2.44) 0 82(100)

Relatives 5(50) 4(40) 1(10) 0 0 10(100)

Alone 21 (80.77) 3(11.54) 1(3.86) 1(3.46) 0 26(100)

Jointly with

spouse 1(20) 4(80) 0 0 0 5(100)

Jointly with

children 9(56.25) 6(37.50) 1(6.25) 0 0 16(100)

Total 60 (41.67) 57 (39.58) 24 (16.67) 3 (2.08) 0 144(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey.

The survey results show that among the elderly who expressed high life

satisfaction, 66.66 percent of older persons meet their financial requirements alone

222

or with the help of spouse. Nearly 17 percent depends on children for their needs.

Older women who receive support from children expressed more satisfaction in

life than men. Further it is noticed that as they grew older, the proportion of

elderly who do not receive any financial or emotional support from children

reported high dissatisfaction towards life. This shows that as they get aged it is

difficult for them to find resources for daily needs and they expect support from

children or others. Unlike pensioners, in the case of social security beneficiaries

those elderly who expressed high satisfaction in life are enjoying the support of

children.

5.6.11. Ownership of House and Life Satisfaction

Choi (2001) points out that financial resource of elderly is a significant

factor contributing to their life satisfaction. Ownership of assets is considered as a

source of economic security at old age which strengthens the feeling of autonomy

and increases life satisfaction.

Table 5.38

Life Satisfaction of Elderly on the Basis of Ownership of House

Ownership of

house

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Pen

sion

ers

Self 5(4.43) 34(30.08) 61

(53.98)

13

(11.50) 0

113

(100)

Spouse 1 (14.28) 3 (42.86) 10

(58.82)

3

(17.64) 0 17 (100)

Children 3(15) 4 (20) 10 (50) 2(10) 1 (5) 20(100)

Others 3 (23.07) 3 (23.07) 7 (53.84) 0 0 13(100)

Rented 3(50) 1 (16.67) 2 (33.33) 0 0 6 (100)

Total 15(8.87) 45

(26.63)

90

(53.25)

18

(10.65) 1 (0.59)

169

(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es

Self 34 (40) 33

(38.82)

16

(18.82)

2

(2.35) 0 85 (100)

Spouse 5 (62.50) 2 (25) 1 (12.50) 0 0 8(100)

Children 6(30) 10 (50) 3 (15) 1(5) 0 20 (100)

Others 9 (45) 8(40) 3(15) 0 0 20(100)

Rented 6 (54.55) 4(36.36) 1 (9.09) 0 0 11 (100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67) 3(2.08) 0

144

(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

223

The study findings suggest that ownership of house has an effect on life

satisfaction of elderly. In the case of 66.70 percent of elderly with low life

satisfaction, the ownership of house is with children, spouse and relatives. Among

the pensioners, 84.21 percent of older persons with high life satisfaction stay in

self owned houses. More than 80 percent of social security beneficiaries who stays

in house owned by others expressed low life satisfaction. Nearly 67 percent of

beneficiaries who scored high in life satisfaction stay in self owned house. 78.82

percent of elderly who owned house were experiencing low life satisfaction. These

evidences suggest that property assets alone are not sufficient for life satisfaction

5.6.12. Life Satisfaction and Monthly Income

Income is considered as a proxy for measuring standard of living. Income

generates positive influence on life satisfaction (Mojoyinola, 2007, Zang and Yu,

1998). Those elderly who has better financial position will be more satisfied in life

than those elderly with adverse financial position (Katz, 2009: Usui et al 1985). It

is found that elderly face a decline in life satisfaction after retirement due to loss

of income (Chatfield, 1977).

It is seen that as income of pensioners increases, the proportion of

elderly who expressed high satisfaction in life also increases. Majority of the

beneficiaries (57.89 percent) who expressed high life satisfaction, are having

monthly income above Rs.6000. Retirement period has also an impact on life

satisfaction. For the first 5 to 10 years 22.22 percent of elderly expressed low life

satisfaction. This proportion increased to 36.11 percent in the case of elderly who

retired after 10 to 15 years. The proportion of elderly with low life satisfaction

declined to 27.59 percent as the retirement period advances more than 15 years. In

the case of social security beneficiaries, though the relation between income and

life satisfaction is not very positive as in the case of pensioners, only 2.70 percent

of elderly with low income has high life satisfaction. Even among those who

earned income more than Rs.2000 monthly, 75 percent were experiencing low life

satisfaction. Poor financial status forces them to work at old age. The proportion

of elderly who expressed medium satisfaction at life was 15.32 percent in the

income group less than Rs.500. Their proportion increased to 44.44 percent as

income improved.

224

Table 5.39

Life Satisfaction and Monthly Income

Total monthly

income of

elderly

Pensioners

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Less than 2000 1(20) 2(40) 1(20) 0 1(20) 5 (100)

2000-4000 10(22.22)

15

(33.33) 16 (35.55) 0 4 (8.88) 45 (100)

4000-6000 32(72.73

) 5 (11.36) 5 (11.36) 1(2.27) 1(2.27) 44 (100)

6000-8000 25

(64.10) 5 (12.82) 4 (10.26)

3

(7.69) 2(5.12) 39 (100)

8000-10000 12

(52.17)

11

(47.83) 0 0 0 23 (100)

10000 and

above 7(53.85) 3 (23.07) 1 (7.69)

1

(7.69) 1 (7.69) 13 (100)

Total 87(51.48)

41

(24.26) 27 (15.98) 5(2.96) 9 (5.33) 169(100)

Social security

beneficiaries

Less than 500

27(24.32) 19(17.12) 38(34.24) 2(1.80) 25(22.52) 111(100)

500-1000 5(26.32) 2(10.53) 7(36.84) 1(5.26) 4(21.05) 19(100)

1000-1500 3(33.33) 4(44.44) 2(22.22) 0 0 9(100)

1500-2000 0 1(100) 0 0 0 1(100)

Above 2000 1(25) 1(25) 2(50) 0 0 4(100)

Total 36(25) 27(18.75) 49(34.03) 3(2.08) 29(20.14) 144

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Financial security is a major determinant of after retirement

satisfaction (Ward, 1979). About 37 percent of the elderly who expressed high

satisfaction in life has total financial security. 94.12 percent of elderly who are

dependent on children expressed medium or low satisfaction in life. Thus the

survey results confirm a negative correlation between economic dependence and

life satisfaction (Oztop, 2009).

5.6.13. Freedom to Spent Money and Life Satisfaction

Like financial independence, autonomy in spending their income is

also an important factor determining the satisfaction of life.

225

Table 5.40

Life Satisfaction Score of Beneficiaries on the Basis of Spending Autonomy

Degree of

freedom

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Pen

sion

ers

Regular 11(8.15) 31(22.96) 77(57.04) 15(11.11) 1(0.74) 135(100)

Occasional 3(13.04) 10(43.47) 9(39.13) 1(4.34) 0 23(100)

Never 1(9.09) 4(36.36) 4(36.36) 2(18.18) 0 11(100)

Total 15(8.88) 45

(26.63)

90

(53.25)

18

(10.65) 1(0.59) 169(100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es Regular 36(36.73) 43(43.87) 17(17.35) 2(2.04) 0 989100)

Occasional 19(57.58) 7(21.21) 7(21.21) 0 0 33(100)

Never 5(38.46) 7(53.85) 0 1(7.69) 0 13(100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67) 3 (2.08) 0 144(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

79.88 percent of the pensioners and 65.05 percent of social

security beneficiaries reported that they have complete control in spending pension

amount. Table (5.40) examined whether there is any association between financial

autonomy and life satisfaction. The study findings infer that about 70 percent of

elderly having complete freedom to spent pension amount expressed either

medium or high satisfaction in life. Another striking point is that 18.20 percent of

the elderly who have no role in spending their income reported high life

satisfaction. This contradiction can be explained in relation to gender-wise

classification. It is found that all pensioners in this category were women. Male

pensioners (92.94 percent) experienced more roles in decision of spending than

older women (66.67percent). This may be due to the male domination practiced in

the society. All the male pensioners who expressed high life satisfaction have

some role in decision-making in financial matters. In the case of social security

beneficiaries autonomy in spending do not show any significant implication on the

life satisfaction of elderly. 70 percent of older men and 83.30 percent of older

women having complete freedom in taking decision expressed low life

satisfaction. This shows that rather than financial independence, support and care

from children also contribute to satisfaction in life.

226

5.6.14. Participation in Family Matters and Life Satisfaction

Participation in family matters by elderly is an indicator of their

acceptance in family which in turn can be considered as an important determinant

of life satisfaction.

Table 5.41

Life Satisfaction of Elderly on the Basis of Involvement in Decision-Making

Participation in

family matters

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Pen

sion

ers

Complete

control 4 18 54 11 0 87

Joint decision 1 9 25 5 1 41

Participate

but no role in

decision

making

4 14 7 2 0 27

Donot

interfere 1 1 3 0 0 5

Not informed 5 3 1 0 0 9

Total 15(8.88) 45

(26.63)

90

(53.25)

18

(10.65) 1(0.59) 169

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty b

enef

icia

ries

Complete

control 17 13 6 0 0 36

Joint decision 1 15 10 1 0 27

Participate

but no role in

decision

making

22 22 5 0 0 49

Do not

interfere 2 0 1 0 0 3

Not informed 18 7 2 2 0 29

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67)

3

(2.08) 0 144(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Those elderly having complete control in family matters expressed more

satisfaction in life than those elderly who have no role in decision-making. Among

the pensioners who have complete participation in decision making at home, 25.28

percent reported low life satisfaction while 88.87 percent of elderly who are not

227

informed or consulted by children in family matters expressed low satisfaction

towards life. The findings show that role in decision-making whether partial or full

have significant effect on life satisfaction of elderly. In the case of social security

beneficiaries, the participation in family matters does not have any significant role

in determining the life satisfaction of elderly. No single beneficiary who had

complete participation in household decision-making expressed high life

satisfaction. 66.70 percent of elderly who expressed high satisfaction in life opined

that they are not consulted by children in family matters. This indicates that there

are variables other than participation in family matters also which determine the

life satisfaction of elderly.

5.6.15. Standard of Living and Life Satisfaction

Generally elderly face a decline in the standard of living after

retirement or due to reduction in income. An enquiry was made among elderly

whether they feel improvement or decline in living standard at old age. Table

(5.42) shows the life satisfaction of elderly on the basis of their present standard of

living.

Table 5.42

Distribution of Elderly According to Standard of Living

Standard of

living

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Pen

sion

ers Yes 10(7.35) 32(23.53) 77(56.62) 16(11.76) 1(0.74) 136(100)

No 5(15.15) 13(0.39) 13 (0.39) 2 (6.06) 0 33 (100)

Total 15(8.88) 45

(26.63)

90

(53.25)

18

(10.65) 1(0.59) 169 (100)

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es

Yes 7 (17.50) 16 (40) 17

(42.50) 0 0 40(100)

No 53(50.96) 41(39.42) 7 (6.73) 3 (2.88) 0 104

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67) 3 (2.08) 0 144(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

Compared to their younger age, more than half of the

respondents (56.23 percent) in the study area are experiencing a fall in the

standard of living. It is observed that even after retirement 80.5 percent of the

228

pensioners reported that they were able to maintain the same living standard as

before. In the case of social security beneficiaries 72.20 percent opined that they

face a decline in the living standard at old age. This is quite natural, since they are

getting a small amount as pension and also because their occupational status ends.

Along with this, their adverse health position prevents them from further

participation in economic activity. We also examined whether standard of living

has an impact on the life satisfaction of elderly. Among pensioners, it is found that

majority of elderly (89.47 percent) who expressed high life satisfaction were also

able to maintain the same standard of living, thus exhibiting a positive association

between standard of living and life satisfaction (Mette, 2005). In the case of social

security beneficiaries, even though 27.80 percent were able to maintain the same

living standard, they experience only less or medium satisfaction in life. This may

be because, they maintain the same living standard with children‟s support only.

5.6.15. Material Wellbeing and Life Satisfaction

Since a qualitative measure for standard of living will not

provide a correct picture, influence of standard of living on life satisfaction of

elderly was calculated using material well-being index.

Table 5.43

Life satisfaction of elderly on the basis of material well-being index

Material

wellbeing

Overall life satisfaction of elderly

Total Very low Low Medium High

Very

high

Pen

sion

ers

High 7(.05) 34

(26.77)

67

(52.76)

18

(14.17) 1 (0.78) 127 (100)

Medium 7(17.07) 11(26.83) 23(56.09) 0 0 41 (100)

Low 1(100) 0 0 0 0 1(100)

Total 15(8.88) 45

(26.63)

90

(53.25)

18

(10.65) 1(0.59) 169

Soci

al s

ecuri

ty

ben

efic

iari

es High 6 (35.29) 6 (35.29) 5 (29.42) 0 0 17 (100)

Medium 42

(38.18)

46

(41.81) 19(17.27) 3(2.73) 0 110

Low 12(70.59) 5 (29.41) 0 0 0 17 (100)

Total 60

(41.67)

57

(39.58)

24

(16.67)

3

(2.08) 0 144(100)

Figures in the bracket show percentages

Source: Primary survey

229

Table (5.43) shows association between life satisfaction and material

wellbeing. Those who expressed high life satisfaction in life scored high on

material wellbeing index also. Among pensioners, all elderly who expressed high

life satisfaction (19 pensioners) scored high on material wellbeing index. In the

case of social security beneficiaries, it is observed that beneficiaries with low

material wellbeing expressed low satisfaction in life, though the association is not

strong as expressed by pensioners.

Older persons in rural areas scored better in material wellbeing index

than those in urban areas. This is true in the case of both pensioners and social

security beneficiaries. While examining the life satisfaction index of pensioners in

rural and urban areas, the results show contradictions. Usually elderly in rural

areas shows better life satisfaction than those in urban areas. The results show a

different trend that those elderly in urban areas having high material wellbeing

expressed high satisfaction in life than those in rural areas.

The above paragraphs have analysed the impact of social security and

pension on elderly‟s life, the major problems faced by them, their involvement in

decision-making and life satisfaction. Analysis reveals the vulnerable position of

social security beneficiaries in the study area. Since the amount received by them

is only nominal, they are dependent on children or forced to continue work at old

age. Apart from this, analysing the wellbeing of elderly in the study area using

three indicators namely life satisfaction, standard of living and material well-being

index, social security beneficiaries scored low. Thus it may be inferred that social

security benefits have not created any notable improvement in elderly‟s living

condition. This confirms our hypothesis that social security net and well-being of

elderly are weakly associated in Kerala.

5.6.16. Determinants of Life Satisfaction of Elderly

In the above paragraphs we discussed the life satisfaction of the elderly.

Life satisfaction is a composite variable influenced by demographic, socio and

economic parameters. Its measurement is relative also. However an attempt is

made here to identify the determinants of life satisfaction. For the purpose, life

satisfaction is estimated in terms of indices and the index value is used as

230

dependent variable. Independent variables are age, family nature, sex, martial

status, education, living arrangements, ownership of house, monthly income.

Many of the independent variables can not be directly measured and hence dummy

variables are used. Composite nature of the dependent variable and the large

number of dummies, and likely multi-collinearity may reduce the statistical

significance of the model as well the coefficient of determinations. As mentioned

in the case of binary model, this is also attempted only with pooled data. But it

will definitely give some insights into the determinants. The estimated model

takes the form,

LSI/Xi = α + ∑ βiXi +ui where Xi conditional, X = 1 or 0

Here the dependent variable used was life satisfaction index (Y). The

independent variables used for the study are age (X1) measured in years, Family

nature (X2) nuclear 1, otherwise 0, Sex (X3) male 1 otherwise 0, Martial status

(X4) married 1 otherwise 0, Education (X5) measured in number of years, Living

arrangements (X6) satisfactory 1 otherwise 0, Ownership of house (X7) own 1

otherwise 0, Monthly income (X8) in rupees. Among them X2, X3, X4, X5, X6,

X7 are dummies. The regression results obtained are given in table (5.44).

Table 5.44

Regression model for determinants of life satisfaction

Variable Coefficient SE

X1 0.687* 0.087

X2 0.987* 0.354

X3 1.284* 0.014

X4 0.007 1.247

X5 1.957* 0.957

X6 0.047 2.87

X7 0.049 1.57

X8 0.458* 0.074

R2 = 0.647 R2 (adj) = 0.618

At 5 percent level of significance

Source: Computed from primary data

From the analysis it is found that the critical factors influencing life

satisfaction of the elderly are X1, X2, X3, X5 and X8. Rational thinking also expects

231

a positive association between these variables and life satisfaction except age. It is

unnatural to have a positive sign for age, because as age improves, life satisfaction

will come down, instead we are getting a positive relation. Thus this was further

checked with the help of data and bivariate tables and found that as age increases

elderly stay with children who leads to better life satisfaction. Thus beyond a cut

of age, there may be chance that a positive relation will be the trend. All these

variables together explained about 64.7 per cent variations in life satisfaction. Bi-

variate table analysis and regression results obtained accept our hypothesis that

there are significant gender differences in the life satisfaction of elderly in Kerala

As mentioned above, in the above model, there is high degree of

multicollinearity and hence to reduce the influence, varimal rotation was

attempted. Varimal rotation is an econometric technique for splitting the total

influence stage by stage so that we will be able to experience the shifting of

variables as the levels change.

Table 5.45

Varimal rotations influencing life satisfaction

Range Variables

Very low X1 X2 X3 X4 X7

Low X1 X2 X4 X6 X7

Medium X1 X2 X4 X5 X7

High X1 X2 X3 X4 X7

Very high X1 X2 X3 X5 X7

Source: Computed from primary data

For the purpose, the life satisfaction levels (table 5.45) were split

into five stages. It is seen that the significant variables in the first stage are X1, X3,

X4, X7. This means, age, sex, martial status and ownership of house decide the

level of life satisfaction. It is also seen that as range improves, more and more

variables become relevant. From the table we are capable of identifying X1, X2

and X7 as the common variables influencing at all levels. But X7 is not significant

in the regression analysis. Thus finally we infer that age and family nature are the

most important factors influencing life satisfaction. As mentioned earlier, age is

positively associated to life satisfaction the reasons are already explained. A very

interesting observation is that family size directly influences life satisfaction and

232

the satisfaction is more in the case of nuclear families. This is very interesting.

Even at old age, elderly wish to live with their own arrangements rather than

depending on others. But this raises concerns for the government in the form of

welfare for the elderly.

5.7. Conclusion

Provision of economic security to aged is the main challenge faced

by the state in the present century. Though social security amount is the major

source of income for elderly, its adequacy and sustainability is questioned. Half of

the pensioners do have at least one dependent indicating that they continue to

carry burden even after retirement. This draws attention to raise the social security

amount without creating a fiscal burden to the government. It is found that in all

the listed socio-economic problems, older women outnumber men. Financial

problem, adverse health condition and loneliness are the major problems faced by

elderly. Hence policies are needed to ensure and satisfy social, financial and

emotional needs of elderly. Participation in family matters by elderly is an

indication of their wellbeing and acceptance in family. While examining the role

of elderly in decision-making, it is found that gender, health status, martial status,

family nature and income have significant influence in determining the elderly‟s

participation. Quality of living of elderly in the study regions was measured using

life satisfaction index. The study findings show significant differences in the

determinants of life satisfaction among pensioners and social security

beneficiaries. Older women, elderly with poor financial status, pensioners in joint

family, social security beneficiaries in nuclear families and elderly living alone or

stays with relatives expressed more dissatisfaction in life. Analysing the

determinants of life satisfaction using multiple regression model, it is observed

that age, family nature, sex, education and monthly income have significant

influence in determining the life satisfaction of elderly. The influence of these

variables stage by stage was analyzed using varimal rotation. It is seen that the

significant variables in the first stage are age, sex, martial status and ownership of

house. As range improves, more and more variables become relevant with age and

family nature are the most important factors influencing life satisfaction.

233

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