The impact of old age allowance on the wellbeing of elderly citizens in Chandragiri municipality, Nepal

Abstract

The old age allowance program in Nepal plays a critical role in sustaining its increasingly aged population. As more than 10 percent of population is now over the age of 60 years old, this shift of rising number of elderly has created pressure on government of Nepal to implement various social security programs. The findings showed that the allowance significantly contributes to economic security, social dignity, and health access for seniors. Specifically, it enables beneficiaries to meet basic needs, improves their financial independence, and increase greater respect within families and communities. The result suggests that the old age allowance has helped senior citizens to meet their basic needs, feel more independent, and gain respect within their families and communities. However, there are some problems like rising prices, payment delays and citizenship issues limit its impact especially for the older adults who are in poverty. This study uses a mixed-methods approach by combining surveys and in-depth interviews to get both numbers and personal stories about the allowance’s impact on elderly. It analyzed the impact of allowance on supporting everyday expenses, healthcare, and social connections. The study suggests increasing the allowance to match inflation by maintaining access and also by adding the support such as healthcare and community centers. These changes could improve the life for Nepal’s elderly and support the policies that help them age with dignity.