AN EXPLORATORY STUDY ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES OF CHINESE ELDERLY WITH FAMILY : IMPLICATIONS FOR PLANNING SOCIAL SERVICE PROGRAMMES

Abstract

Singapore is fast becoming an aging society. The quality of life of its senior citizens has recently been a major concern for the government and social service agencies. One of the major aims of social policies has been to encourage families to take care of their elders. However, relatively little is known about the general well-being of these mainstream elders who are living with their families. This study attempted to examine the issues related to quality of life of mainstream Chinese elderly with families. Key aspects of quality of life were evaluated. In this study, twenty Chinese elders who were living with their families were interviewed. Generally, this was a cohort of simple, and traditional elders. A majority of whom were satisfied with their lives. Research findings indicated that these elders were not very involved in the community and contributed little to society. In addition, they tended to be segregated in society. Nevertheless, male respondents were more active in the community than their female counterparts. Relationships in the family tended to be instrumental than expressive. The elderly respondents were not very involved in family decision-making. Overall, they did not feel much respected. Implications were raised in this study to help enhance the quality of life of these elders, in particular, some suggestions were made to encourage contributions by elders within the community.