Perceptions of old people on the quality of their lives and factors influencing their perceptions

Abstract

Tanzania is currently experiencing an increase of the proportion of older people in its population. There is inadequate information on the living conditions of this segment of the population. This study strives to answer the questions: how do older people in Tanzania perceive the quality of their own lives? And which factors influence their perceptions? A single point in time cross-sectional survey of living conditions and development (in short, SAUT Survey) was conducted in 2017 (n =1,488) involving people aged 18+ from rural and urban settings in five regions of Tanzania. Data related to people aged 50+ was extracted from SAUT Survey data and used for analysis consistent with similar studies which categorized older people from age 50+ (Gomez-Olive et al., 2017; Mwanyangala et al., 2010). Computer Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) was used to collect data. Data analysis included Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and other descriptive techniques such as frequencies and cross-tabulation for variables which were not appropriate for OLS. Overall, the study found out that Social Economic Status was a significant factor on the life satisfaction of both older people and younger generations. Insecurity, particularly lack of availability of enough food and energy such as fuel, firewood and charcoal for cooking were sources of great life dissatisfaction to older people. The study recommends that availability of energy, food, and other basic amenities should be considered when policy makers plan for services of older generations. The study highlights the necessity of undertaking gerontological research to assess the multiple needs of older people, their families and communities to realize their potentials, strengths and care needs.
Key words: Ageing, living conditions, life satisfaction, older people, quality of life, Tanzania