An Assessment of Socio-Economic Problems Facing Aged People: A Case of Namtumbo District

Mtani, Martin Chiruma (2017) An Assessment of Socio-Economic Problems Facing Aged People: A Case of Namtumbo District. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study aimed at assessing the social economic problems facing aged people. Namtumbo District was selected as a case study. The specific objectives were to assess the attitudes of the community members toward the aged; to identify problems facing old people in Namtumbo District; to find out the coping mechanisms of the elderly in overcoming the social economic challenges facing them; and to examine the socio-economic and cultural welfare arrangements in place for the elderly. Three wards, were selected randomly, this were; Magazini, Lusewa and Limamu. 100 respondents were selected for using simple random and purposive sampling. Primary data were collected through questionnaires and the secondary data were collected from reports, data compilations and other official documents from government offices, villages, courts and religious organizations. Descriptive statistics, data reduction methods and SPSS were used in the analysis of data. The results were presented in the form of frequencies, histograms, pie charts and tables. The findings show that the elders from Namtumbo District face many socio-economic problems, such as isolation, extreme poverty and abuse, have limited access to health services and legal protection. Over 26.7% of the respondents pointed out that the health cost was the most serious challenge facing them. Payment for the health services was very difficult for them although the government policy stipulates that elders should get health service free of charge. In order to cater for other needs the government should provide for elders subsistence’s allowance or some kind of pension.

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