PARTICIPATION OF SENIOR CITIZENS IN LENG KEE CC

Abstract

One of the major issues elderly face after retirement is that of interest and purpose in life. Many elderly feel a sense of loss after retirement. However, this is one area which is often neglected or not recognised. Activities organised by the Senior Citizens' Clubs (SCCs) provide a good avenue for the elderly as opportunities to develop interests in life and to remain in contact with the society as well. There are many members who actively participate in these activities. However, some of the membersremain inactive and do not seem to express interests in these activities.This case study of a single SCC attempts to look at the profile of the active and inactive members and to explore the factors that influence their participation. Results from the study show that health, support from friends in the club, organisational support and attractiveness of the programs play an important part in influencing their participation level. There are alsosignificant difference between the active and inactive in terms of the number of years in the club and grand parenting responsibilities. The discussion hopes to throw some new light into the knowledge of the SCC members. Recommendations offered are to enable themanagement of the clubs to consider other ways of enhancing and sustaining the members' participation so that they can maintain a sense of purpose in life.