Knowledge, attitude and utilization of the privileges and benefits of senior citizens in the Municipality of Leganes

Abstract

This descriptive-relational study was conducted to determine the knowledge, attitude, and utilization of the privileges and benefits of senior citizens and the relationship between these variables, among the elderly in the Municipality of Leganes. Specifically, it tried to determine the personal profile of the elderly as to their age, sex, civil status, educational attainment, and income; as well as their knowledge, attitude and utilization of the benefits and privileges in the Senior Citizen Law. It also sought to determine the relationship between the senior citizens personal profile and knowledge of the Senior Citizen Law. Furthermore it also tried to determine whether there was a relationship between the level of knowledge and utilization of the benefits and privileges. Furthermore it sought to determine the relationship between the level of knowledge and utilization controlling the attitude of the respondents. The study involved 144 senior citizens from selected Barangays in the Municipality of Leganes. The data gathering instrument used for this study was a researcher made questionnaire and analysis of data involved the use of both descriptive and inferential statistical tools. Findings of this study revealed majority of the respondents were of the young-old ages 60 to 65 years old female, married, and attained elementary education or less, with no fixed income or pension. The senior citizens knowledge about the benefits and privileges in the Senior Citizen Law was only average which is an indication that many still lack knowledge and understanding of the senior citizen law. Furthermore, the attitude towards the provision in the law and its implementation among the senior citizens of the municipality of Leganes was moderately favorable indicating that the senior citizens are still not fully convinced about the value and efficacy of the law. On the extent of utilization however, is only moderate, indicating that the benefits and privileges are still underutilized. Only education attainment has a significant influence on the senior citizens knowledge about the provisions on the Senior Citizen Law while age, sex, civil status and income are not significantly related to knowledge about the provisions in the Senior Citizen Law. Only education attainment and income has a significant bearing on the attitude of senior citizens towards the benefits and privileges in the Senior Citizen Law. Age and income are not significantly related to the attitude of senior citizens of their benefits and privileges. Only educational attainment is significantly related to the extent of utilization. The level of knowledge about the benefits and privileges in the Senior Citizen Law has a significant effect on the attitude of senior citizens as well as the utilization of their benefits and privileges.

Recommendations focused on the need for a wider dissemination and communication of the provisions in the Senior Citizen Law, so that a wider audience in the community especially the senior citizens themselves and the business sector will be aware. Seminars for both the business sector and the senior citizenry should be conducted on a regular basis to serve as a reminder for all concerned. The Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) should coordinate with the National Coordinating and Monitoring Board (NCMB) to check and monitor the implementation of the Senior Citizen Law. Attention should be given to the rural areas so as to make merchants and establishment owners aware of their responsibilities in giving the senior citizens the discount they need and deserve as provided for them in the law. The municipality should provide as accessible place for members where some have physical disabilities and may find going from one department to another a difficulty. This designated place will provide easy access and make OCSA services tangible and visible. Thus senior citizens will most likely be encouraged to participate and avail of these services.