The struggles of older persons to make both ends meet

Abstract

Active aging and full citizenship entail that older persons, just like any other member in society, have the right to live a quality of life they desire for, filled with good care, financial stability and significant support from family, friends and society. This research study focused on experiences of older persons struggling to make both ends meets. The researcher engaged with six older persons who live in Għargħur, Malta, to hear their stories on the factors that contribute to the struggle’s older persons face to live the quality of life they aspire for. Three dominant factors identified from the findings were: Financial Situation of Older Persons; The Wellbeing of Older Persons; and Resources for Older Persons. Poverty for older persons is more than the money; it encompasses their standard of living and various types of deprivation. The findings exposed that older persons are facing material and social deprivation, which are affecting their wellbeing and living conditions. Other factors, some of which are elements of material deprivation, are affecting their nutrition status negatively due to lack of affordability. Income is one significant proxy of quality of life, whereby findings revealed that income derived from pensions did not provide the necessary financial security. In brief the recommendations being put forward in this study include: improved pension coverage; better accessibility to information and services; service literature for older persons; and better reach of healthcare services.