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Explore the Motivational Factors Driving Economic Engagement among the Elderly in Rural Area in Lao People's Democratic Republic
76-78Views:43This exploratory study delves into the motivational factors driving economic engagement among the elderly in rural areas of Laos, a nation in Southeast Asia experiencing demographic shifts towards an aging population. With limited research on this topic in the context of rural Laos, this study aims to uncover the underlying motivations that influence elderly individuals to participate in economic activities. By understanding these factors, policymakers can design targeted interventions to promote economic inclusion and improve the well-being of the elderly population. However, the study also uncovers barriers and challenges faced by elderly individuals, such as limited access to resources, skills, and infrastructure. Recommendations are provided to address these challenges and enhance support systems.
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Social service delivery for senior citizens in rural Philippines and secrets to longevity of Apo Whang-od
2-14Views:400Access to social services such as healthcare, transportation, and financial support can be limited, leaving many elderly individuals vulnerable to poverty and social exclusion. This paper examined the recent elderly demographics, status of social service delivery, the roles of traditional and cultural practices, and specific challenges faced by older persons in rural areas, using the case of Apo Whang-od and her community, Buscalan that is in the municipality of Tinglayan, Province of Kalinga, Philippines. Using a mixed methods approach, this paper revealed that almost 11% of Tinglayan’s population is elderly, mostly indigenous people with a relatively low literacy rate, and low-income earners who are engaged mostly in subsistence farming and small-scale traditional craft making. Also, there are substantial government programs and services offered by existing laws; however, access to these is challenged by limited access to education and healthcare services, with long travel distances and a lack of transportation being major barriers. Financial difficulties were also observed, with no or few having access to social security benefits and reasonable amounts of pensions. The challenges can also be attributed to an unfavorable geographical location, conflicts with neighboring tribes, limited local government funds, lack of knowledge, and inadequate social service centers within the locality. Tinglayan’s cultural values were also found to play a pivotal role in supplementing the scarce social services by fostering a supportive atmosphere for the elderly. Analysing Apo-Whag-od's longevity, it was revealed that she lived a longer life because she ate organic and locally sourced food, slept well, laughed a lot, engaged in regular physical activity, nurtured her spiritual well-being, built strong relationships with her family and community, and kept a positive outlook. In conclusion, social demographics shows that elderlies in rural areas are disadvantaged, which calls for more efficient and effective access, delivery, and availability of social services. Moreover, policymakers are enjoined to accelerate social infrastructures, expand social protection programs, and support intergenerational solidarity and resilience and cultural preservation. Lastly, Apo Whang-od’s legacy lives on. Her popularity not only gained revitalization of the Kalinga tattoo culture, but it also inspired people to follow her steps to longer and happier way of life.