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Social Gerontology: A Socio-Psycho Analysis on Problems of Aging

Dr. Ziya A. Pathan

Associate Professor, Dept of Sociology & Social Work University of Eswatini, Eswatini, Southern Africa

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.51584/IJRIAS.2025.101100008

Received: 11 November 2025; Accepted: 20 November 2025; Published: 28 November 2025

ABSTRACT

The paper provides a socio-psycho analysis of the multifaceted challenges within the framework of social

gerontology confronting the elderly people at Manzini region in Eswatini. With the demographic shift towards

older societies, understanding the unique problems faced by the elderly has become a critical imperative for

researchers and policymakers. The main objective of this study is to systematically examine and synthesize the

key social and psychological issues that significantly impact the quality of life and well-being of the aged. It

delves into the psychological dimensions of aging, focusing on issues such as maintaining cognitive health,

coping with life transitions, the fear of dependency, and the decline in self-esteem associated with retirement

and changing social roles. The paper applies mixed research approach and convenience sampling under non-

probability sampling methods is used, where a semi-structured questionnaire is administered to the respondents

seeking indepth information to fulfill the research objectives, offering recommendations for developing

policies and community programs aimed at mitigating the socio-psychological vulnerabilities of the elderly,

ensuring participation and inclusion in mainstream society.

Keywords: Social gerontology - Aging - Socio-psycho - Well-being - Social isolation - Psychological health.

INTRODUCTION

United Nations (2024) defines an older person is the one who is 60 years of age or older. This is a

chronological definition used for statistical and reporting purposes. While 60 is the standard age, the UN and

its agencies acknowledge that the definition of old age can vary significantly depending on social, cultural, and

economic factors in different countries. For instance, in some places, old age may be defined by physical

appearance, family status (like grandparent), or the age at which one becomes eligible for a pension, which can

be different from 60. This global standard of 60 years and over is used by the UN to monitor trends in global

population aging and to develop policies and programs to address the needs of this growing demographic.

The present study “Social gerontology: A socio-psycho analysis on problems of aging” delineates the concept

of aging, social gerontology, theories about aging, problems of aged and remedial measures. Age and aging

are social as well as biological phenomenon. Age is a basic component in the ever-changing social structure.

Social factors stipulate the boundaries and the activities of childhood, adulthood and oldage. Even the typical

ages for onset of menstruation and for dying are affected by social process as both age and aging are imperious

forces in social life.

Social Gerontology & Aging

Social gerontology is the study of the social aspects of aging (Novak, 2012). The scholars who study aging are

called gerontologists. The people they study go by several names, most commonly “older people”, “elders,”

and “the elderly.” The latter term is usually reserved for those 65 or older, while “older people” and “elders”

often include people in their fifties as well as those 60 or older.

Social gerontology is a subfield of gerontology. It is mainly concerned with social aspects of aging rather than

the biological aspects. However, social gerontologists do study the influence of biological process and the

influence of social conditions on aging. Societal aging affects the major political, social, and economic

institutions as well as the nature of interpersonal and familial relationships. Social gerontologists recognizes,

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that aging is a life stage which determines the quality of later life by events, opportunities, and decisions made

during youth age. The life course provides a roadmap for thinking about how health, social relationships, and

socioeconomic status change over time and across stages.

Ageing (British English) or aging (American English) is the accumulation of changes in a person over time.

Aging is the natural, time-dependent process of physiological decline and deterioration that occurs in living

organisms, leading to increased vulnerability and a decreased ability to survive and reproduce. It involves

complex changes to physical, psychological, and social aspects of an organism, marked by a gradual loss of

bodily functions, an increased risk of age-related diseases, and a higher probability of mortality.

Theories about Aging:

During the last decades the number of elderly people has been considerably increasing and hence much

attention has been given to gerontology. Severely competing theories about the nature of aging have been

projected like, disengagement theory, activity theory, subculture and resource theory.

i. Disengagement Theory: This theory was proposed by Elaine Cumming and William E. Henry in their

1961 book, Growing Old. They suggested that aging involves a natural and mutually beneficial

withdrawal between the individual and society.

ii. Activity Theory: A direct counterpoint to disengagement theory, activity theory is most closely

associated with Robert J. Havighurst, who developed the concept in the early 1960s. He argued that

maintaining a high level of activity and social engagement is key to successful aging.

iii. Subculture Theory: This theory was put forth by sociologist Arnold Rose in 1962. He proposed that

older adults, facing similar societal issues and a loss of status, form a distinct subculture to find

community and support.

iv. Resource Theory: There's no single founder for a theory strictly labeled "resource theory", it's often

found within the framework of other theories, such as Selective Optimization with Compensation

(SOC), developed by Paul B. Baltes and Margaret M. Baltes. The SOC model, for example, explains

how older adults manage and optimize their resources (like health, time, and social support) to

successfully age.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

G.S. Bhatnagar & Mohinder Randhwa (1992) in their study “Social Adjustment among retired persons”, made

an effort to find out the problems of retired people in Patiala city of Punjab. One of the important aspects of

these problems is related to their adjustment in society. It reveals that well educated, economically sound with

urban background have secured higher scores of social adjustment. The concept of active aging, which has

been stressed in recent form, can therefore be expected to become a reality with wide spread education and

economic upliftment of individual members of society. Indu Grower and D.K. Grower (1997), conducted a

joint study on “Aged in Comparative Global Perspective”, it showed the trends of aging in the world. Thus in

almost all the countries women faces more problems as they survive longer. In France as many as 71.4 percent

of the total population of aged women are facing various problems while minimum have been reported from

India.

Gibson, H.B. (2000), in his book “Loneliness in Later Life”, by using the results of a British survey and a

collection of autobiographies, Gibson draws some interesting conclusions about loneliness and old age. He

finds that being alone is not necessarily a negative thing for many older people and that many people

deliberately seek solitude. He looks at loneliness as it has appeared in works of literature through the ages and

finds that in today's modern society older people are much healthier and more active with many more options

for living than they had in previous generations. Snowdon David (2001). A very readable account entitled,

“Aging with Grace: What the Nun Study Teaches Us about Leading Longer, Healthier, and More Meaningful

Lives”, is a groundbreaking study of aging which uses Nuns as research subjects. The topic combines

interesting descriptions of the scientific process with fascinating portraits of many of the Nuns involved. Dr.

Snowdon sheds a lot of light on Alzheimer’s and the aging process and also poses many questions to be

answered by ongoing research.

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Dasharath Albal & Ziya Pathan (2006) in their study “Profile of Aged in 21

Century” made a comprehensive

study on various problems of aging in India and provided a condensed account of aged in India and its

neighboring countries and at global level with special reference to demographic proportion of aged in India.

They examined prevalent policies and programs of the government for the aged population and the role of

voluntary organization in providing social security and care.

Paul Higgs & Chris Gilliard (2023) argues in the paper, “The sociology of aging and social gerontology:

critical tensions and necessary distinctions” the sociology of ageing has been diverted from developing a

clearly sociological approach to ageing and old age by its entanglement with social gerontology and to achieve

it requires not only separating the sociology of ageing from social gerontology. A re-envisioned sociology of

ageing can also better equip social gerontology with more effective tools to understand the ‘new ageing’.

Statement of the problem

Gerontology is concerned with the health issues of the greying population. Health depends on the nutrition,

fulfillment of basic needs, mental peace and stability. The United Nation report of 2024 shows a life

expectancy of Eswatini is not very high and has improved in the recent decade and 65+ population contributes

only 4 % which evident that, the research be taken to understand the challenges the aged population is

experiencing where the world is going towards health awareness and medical advancement. Though there are

researches on oldage in Eswatini, here the current research is undertaken to fill the dearth of study on oldage

and their socio-psychological challenges specifically at the Manzini region. It also aims to guide the young

generation and to assist the government authority to undertake policies and programs for the welfare and

sustainability of the elderly population.

Objectives of the study

1. To understand the health conditions of the aged.

2. To seek suggestions from the aged to improve the life situation of the elderly.

3. To realize the psychological as well as emotional well-being of the aged.

Research Hypothesis

: There is a significant prevalence of depressive symptoms among the Elderly.

: Old age leads to behavioral changes among the aged.

: There is a lack of health care benefits to the aged.

METHODOLOGY

This research uses qualitative as well as quantitative approach where the research design incorporates an

analytical framework or techniques where quantitative data is involved and explores the profiles and problems

of elderly people aged 60 at Manzini region in Eswatini. It relies on both primary and secondary data. Primary

data is collected using a semi-structured questionnaire which is administered to the respondents as a result of

convenience sampling under non-probability sampling where a sample of 38 respondents is drawn, while

secondary data is sourced from various government records, published articles, theses, and other literature. The

data is analyzed using SPSS to draw percentage, tables and testing of hypothesis. The scope is limited to the

specified age group and geographical location.

Locale of the study

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small land locked country located in Southern Africa. Eswatini is

in between South Africa and Mozambique and it covers an area of about 17,364 square kilometers and has a

population of approximately 1.2.million people. Eswatini consists of several geographical features which

includes mountains and hills, fertile valleys, and rivers. The country has four main regions which are

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Shiselweni, Hhohho, Lubombo, and Manzini. The area of study i.e., Manzini region, serves as a vital

economic and commercial hub for the country, boasting a blend of modern and traditional influences. The

region is also known for its rich cultural heritage, hosting traditional events and crafts, particularly in pottery

and weaving. Overall, Manzini plays a crucial role in Eswatini’s economic and cultural landscape.

Age-wise distribution of the population

Table No. 1: Population of Eswatini by Age Group

Sl. No

Age Range

Population

In Percentage

0-14 years

414, 509

33.4

15-64 years

775, 345

62.4

65 + years

52, 968

04.3

Total

1,242,822

100

Source: UN, World Population Prospects, 2024

As of 2024, the population of Eswatini is projected at 1.24 million. The population is divided into three major

categories, with the adult working-age population being the largest group.

 Adults (15-64 years): This group makes up the majority of the population, at 62.4%. This high

proportion of working-age individuals is a significant economic asset.

 Children (0-14 years): Children constitute a substantial portion of the population at 33.4%. This

suggests a high youth dependency ratio, but it also means there is a large, upcoming workforce.

 Old (65+ years): The elderly population is the smallest segment at 4.3%, indicating a low old-age

dependency ratio.

Demographic indicators 2025 reflects the life expectancy of 64.40 years of age which evident smallest segment

of old age population i.e., only 4.3 percent.

Data Analysis and interpretation

I. Profile of the Respondents

Table No. 2: Age-wise distribution of the respondents

Age

Frequency

Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

61-65

55.3

66-70

21.1

76.3

71-75

13.2

89.5

76-80

07.9

97.4

Above 80 Years

02.6

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The Table No.2 reveals that, the majority of the old respondents (55.3%) fall within the 61-65 age group, with

this group has the highest frequency of 21 respondents. The distribution shows a clear decline in the number of

respondents as the age groups get older. The age-wise distribution is positively skewed, indicating that the

majority of the individuals in the "old-age" sample are clustered in the lower age brackets, specifically 61-65

years. The proportion of individuals declines significantly and consistently as the age group increases, with

very few individuals reaching the above 80 Years category.

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Table No. 3: Sex-wise distribution

Sex

Frequency

Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Male

52.6

Female

47.4

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The sex distribution is nearly equal, with a marginal predominance of males 52.6 percent over females 47. 4

percent, the difference between the two groups is small, with only two more males than females in the sample.

This suggests the sample is relatively balanced in terms of sex.

Table No. 4: Educational attainment of the respondents

Education

Frequency

Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Illiterate

10.5

Primary

23.7

34.2

Secondary

21.1

55.3

Higher Secondary

18.4

73.7

Undergraduate

18.4

92.1

Post graduate

05.3

97.4

Diploma

02.6

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The distribution of educational attainment is weighted toward the lower to intermediate levels of schooling,

with the Primary and Secondary categories being the most common. While a substantial minority did pursue

higher education, over half of the elderly population in this sample did not progress beyond secondary school.

Table No. 5: Religion-wise distribution of the respondents

Religion

Frequency

Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Christian

92.1

Swazi Traditional Religion (STR)

05.3

97.4

Muslim

02.6

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The religious profile of the old-age sample is extremely concentrated, with Christianity being the nearly

exclusive religion. The representation of Swazi Traditional Religion and Islam is minimal in this particular

sample. The findings are strongly specific to a Christian-majority environment and cannot be generalized to a

religiously diverse old-age population. The study's focus, therefore, must be on the experiences of older

Christians in this specific geographic or community context.

Table No. 6: Marital Status

Status

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Unmarried

15.8

Married

65.8

81.6

Separated

05.3

86.8

Widower

13.2

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

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The marital status of the old-age sample is defined by a strong prevalence of active marriages, with 65.8

percent of individuals currently married, indicating a high degree of spousal support and potentially greater

social stability across the cohort. The remaining individuals are distributed among the unmarried i.e., 15.8

percent and those experiencing post-marital status, specifically widower is 13.2 percent and separated is 5.3

percent.

Table No. 7: Nature of family

Nature of Family

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Joint Family

65.8

Nuclear Family

28.9

94.7

Blended

02.6

97.4

Living alone

02.6

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The analysis of family type reveals that the old-age cohort is overwhelmingly situated within extended familial

support structures. A substantial majority of 65.8 percent of the aged individuals reside in a Joint Family. It

suggests that familial cohabitation is the primary mechanism for social support, access to care, and potential

economic pooling for this population. The secondary family structure is the Nuclear Family at 28.9 percent.

Combined, these two conventional family types account for nearly 95 percent of the sample, reinforcing the

importance of family integration. The proportions of Blended and Living alone are statistically negligible for

comparison but indicate that social isolation is a very low-incidence issue in this specific sample.

II. Habits & Addictions

Table No. 8: Do you consume Alcohol?

Consumption

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

23.7

76.3

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The data on alcohol consumption among the old-age cohort clearly indicates that it is a low-prevalence

behavior within this sample. A significant majority of participants 76.3 percent reported no-alcohol

consumption. Conversely, only 23.7 percent reported consuming alcohol. This distribution suggests that, for

the overall sample, alcohol use and its associated health risks are not primary public health concerns for the

majority of this elderly population.

Table No. 8(a): If yes, how frequent?

Consumption

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Weekly

44.4

Monthly

11.1

55.6

Occasional

44.4

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

Analyzing the small subset of old-age individuals who reported consuming alcohol (N=9), the data reveals a

bimodal pattern of frequency, primarily split between regular and occasional use.

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The largest proportions are found in the Weekly and Occasional categories, which are tied at 44.4 each (4

individuals in each group). This means that among those who do drink, nearly half are weekly consumers.

Combining the Weekly (44.4%) and Monthly (11.1%) consumers, it’s found that a slight majority (55.5%) of

the drinkers consume alcohol on a regular (at least monthly) basis

Table No. 9: Do you smoke?

Smoking

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

18.4

81.6

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The data on the smoking habit of the old-age indicates that smoking is a low-incidence behavior within this

sample. A vast majority of the respondents i.e., 81.6 percent report that they do not smoke. Conversely, only

18.4 percent of the participants are current smokers. This distribution suggests that, similar to alcohol

consumption, the overall health burden related to smoking in this population is confined to a small minority.

Table No. 9(a): If yes, how often?

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Daily

85.7

Occasionally

14.3

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The frequency data, based on the small subset of participants who smoke (N=7), reveals that the behavior is

overwhelmingly habitual and high-risk. A dominant 85.7 percent of the smokers report Daily consumption,

while only 14.3 percent smoke occasionally. This distribution is critical: it implies that the 18.4 percent of the

total study population who smoke are primarily engaged in chronic, heavy tobacco use. Consequently, treated

as a high-risk cohort for adverse health outcomes, specifically examining associations between daily smoking

and prevalence of cardiovascular, respiratory, or other smoking-related morbidities in this elderly population.

III. Health Conditions

Table No. 10: Do you have any long term illness?

Illness

Frequency

Valid Percentage

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

73.7

26.3

100

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

Table No. 10 represents the prevalence of long-term illness among the old-age, indicates a high burden of

chronic health issues. A significant majority, 73.7 percent, reported having a long-term illness, while only 26.3

percent reported no such condition. This high prevalence is a critical finding, suggesting that the health status

of this old-age group is generally compromised and that chronic disease management is a central issue for the

population under study.

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Table No. 10(a). If yes, what type?

N = 38

Illness

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Hearing loss

15.7

Cataracts and refractive errors

11.8

27.5

Back, neck pain & Osteoarthritis

21.6

49.0

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

05.9

54.9

Diabetes

21.6

76.5

Depression and dementia

05.9

82.4

Prostate Problems

02.0

84.3

Hypertension

09.8

94.1

Ulcers

02.0

96.1

High blood pressure

02.0

98.0

Blood loss

02.0

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The type of illness of respondents is depicted in a multiple response table, as respondents suffer from more

than one condition. The analysis of illness types among the old-age reveals a high and diverse burden of

chronic conditions, with a clear concentration in two key areas: musculoskeletal issues and

metabolic/endocrine disorders.

The most prevalent illnesses are: Back, neck pain & Osteoarthritis and Diabetes, both accounting for 21.6

percent of all recorded illnesses. This high prevalence points to significant challenges related to mobility and

pain management (Osteoarthritis) and metabolic control (Diabetes) within the sample, which heavily influence

daily quality of life of the respondents.

The second tier of common problems includes sensory impairments, which collectively represent a substantial

portion of the morbidity: Hearing loss 15.7 percent and Cataracts and refractive errors 11.8 percent. This

suggests a need for targeted interventions focusing on maintaining effective communication and vision to

prevent social isolation and accidental injury.

Other significant chronic issues include Hypertension (9.8%), while Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

and Depression and dementia are present at 5.9 percent each. The low prevalence of conditions like Prostate

Problems, Ulcers, High blood pressure, and Blood loss which is 2.0 percent each suggests these are minor or

less frequently reported concerns.

The healthcare priorities for the elderly sample must center on managing musculoskeletal pain and stiffness,

along with the complex demands of metabolic and sensory impairments. This diverse health landscape

confirms the high long-term illness burden noted in the previous analysis (73.7%) and necessitates a

comprehensive, chronic-care approach to maintain functional independence.

Table No. 11: Do you have any health care benefit?

Benefit

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

26.3

73.7

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The data on healthcare benefits utilization among the old-age cohort reveals a significant gap in access or

awareness. A vast majority which is 73.7 percent reports that they do not receive healthcare benefits.

Conversely, only 26.3 percent report receiving such benefits.

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This finding is highly critical when contrasted with the previously established health profile: 73.7 percent of

the same individuals reported having a long-term illness.

There is a profound disparity between the need for healthcare (high prevalence of long-term illness) and the

reception of formal healthcare benefits (low utilization). The three-quarters of the sample without benefits are

likely financially vulnerable concerning medical expenses, potentially leading to delayed treatment, non-

adherence to medication, and poorer long-term health outcomes. Here, the H

: There is a Lack of health care

benefits to the aged is tested as follows;

Rationale for Test: Tested whether the observed proportion of elderly individuals who lack health care

benefits (the "No" response) was significantly greater than the 50% chance proportion (π0=0.50) using a One-

Sample Binomial Test (N=38).

Variable

Category Tested

Observed

Proportion (p^)

Test Prop

(π0)

Exact Sig.

(1-tailed)

Decision

Lacks Health Care Benefits

0.737

0.50

p<0.005

Reject H0

Conclusion: The proportion of elderly individuals who lack health care benefits (73.7%) is statistically

significantly greater than 50% (p<0.005). This finding supports the hypothesis that the lack of health care

benefits is highly prevalent among the elderly in this sample.

Table No. 12: Do you have any insurance?

Insurance

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

26.3

73.7

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The data on insurance coverage among the old-age cohort indicates a major deficit in financial protection for

this vulnerable population. An overwhelming majority, 73.7 percent, report having no insurance facility, while

only 26.3 percent are covered.

This finding is identical to the low utilization rate reported for general healthcare benefits, suggesting that the

73.7 percent of the elderly who suffer from long-term illnesses are not only without government or public

benefits, but are also unprotected by private or social insurance schemes.

From a research standpoint, this lack of insurance coverage for three-quarters of the sample represents a severe

financial risk factor. The low insurance rate underscores the urgent need for policy interventions aimed at

providing affordable or subsidized health insurance to mitigate the risk of catastrophic health expenditures and

medical impoverishment in this elderly group.

Table No. 13: How often do you go for health checkups?

Health Checkup

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Weekly

07.9

Monthly

63.2

71.1

Annually

07.9

78.9

Rarely

21.1

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

Table No. 13, reflects the frequency of health check-ups among the old-age which demonstrates a strong

pattern of routine, short-interval engagement with healthcare.

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The dominant frequency is Monthly, accounting for 63.2 percent of the respondents, meaning nearly two-thirds

of the elderly population in the sample undergo health check-ups every month. When combined with the

Weekly check-ups 7.9 percent, the majority of the sample i.e., 71.1 percent maintains a very frequent and

proactive schedule for health monitoring. This level of engagement is particularly notable given the high

prevalence of long-term illness 73.7 percent and low insurance coverage previously observed, suggesting that

the cost burden is being managed or absorbed, most likely by the joint family structure, to facilitate this routine

care.

The Rarely attending group (21.1%) represents a significant subset who may be neglecting necessary long-

term illness management, thereby presenting a high-risk group that warrants targeted intervention to improve

compliance and access to consistent care.

Table No. 14: Do you sleep well in general?

Sleep

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

84.2

15.8

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

An analysis of sleep quality among the old-age population shows that the vast majority reports sleeping well.

Out of the 38 individuals surveyed, a significant 32 people, or 84.2 percent responded "Yes" to the question of

whether they sleep well in general. In contrast, only 6 people, which accounts for 15.8 percent of the

population, reported not sleeping well. This indicates that within this surveyed group, issues with sleep are not

a widespread concern.

Table No. 15: Do you use sleep medication

Response

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

02.6

97.4

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

Based on the provided data, an analysis of sleep medication usage among the surveyed population reveals that

it is not common. Out of 38 individuals, an overwhelming majority of 37 people, or 97.4 percent, reported that

they do not use sleep medication. In stark contrast, only a single individual, representing just 2.6 percent of the

population, responded "Yes." This indicates that within this surveyed group, the use of sleep medication is

extremely rare.

Table No. 16: Do you regularly forget things?

Forgetting

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

47.4

52.6

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

Memory issues among the surveyed population reveals a nearly even split. Out of the 38 individuals surveyed,

20 people, or 52.6 percent reported that they do not regularly forget things. Conversely, a substantial portion of

the population, 18 people or 47.4 percent, responded "Yes" to the same question. This indicates that while a

slight majority of the surveyed group does not report memory issues, a significant portion of the old-age

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population does experience regular forgetfulness.

Table No. 17: Do you fall or loose balance while walking or doing routine

Balance

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

36.8

63.2

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The balance issues among the surveyed population reveals that while the majority of individuals do not

experience falls or loss of balance, a significant portion does. Out of the 38 people surveyed, 24 individuals, or

63.2 percent, responded "No" to the question of falling or losing balance. However, a considerable number of

14 people, representing 36.8 percent of the population, reported that they do experience these issues. This

indicates that while not a majority concern, instability is a notable health problem for over a third of the old-

age population surveyed.

I. Emotional aspects of the respondents

Table No. 18: Have you noticed any changes in your behavior

Behavior

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

76.3

23.7

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The hypothesis H

: Old age leads to behavioral changes was assessed using data from a single, homogenous

group of old-age participants (N=38). The appropriate method for comparing a single sample's observed

proportion (p^) against a theoretical proportion is the One-Sample Binomial Test. This test compares the

observed proportion to 50% (π0= 0.50), representing the probability of a "Yes" response occurring by chance.

The test was conducted using a one-tailed approach with a significance level of α = 0.05.

Hypotheses and Descriptive Statistics

 Null Hypothesis (H

: The true proportion of old-age individuals reporting behavioral changes is 50%

(π = 0.50).

 Alternative Hypothesis (H

): The true proportion of old-age individuals reporting behavioral changes

is greater than 50% (π > 0.50).

The results of the One-Sample Binomial Test are presented below.

Variable

Category

Observed Proportion

Test Proportion

Exact Sig. (1-tailed)

Test Value

Yes

0.816

0.50

<0.001

0.184

Total

Note: A corresponding One-Sample Z-Test for proportions yielded Z=3.896, p<0.001. The Binomial Test

provides the exact probability.

DECISION AND CONCLUSION

The observed proportion of old-age individuals reporting depressive symptoms (81.6%) was significantly

higher than the test proportion of 50%.

 Decision: Since the exact one-tailed p-value (p<0.001) is much smaller than the significance level

(α=0.05), the H

is rejected.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN APPLIED SCIENCE (IJRIAS)

ISSN No. 2454-6194 | DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS |Volume X Issue XI November 2025

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 Conclusion: There is statistically significant evidence that the prevalence of depressive symptoms in

this sample of old-age individuals is greater than 50%.

 The data supports the hypothesis that old-age individuals have a significant prevalence of depressive

symptoms.

Table No. 21: Lack of interest/joy over past month

Response

Frequency

Valid Percent

Cumulative Percent

Valid

Yes

60.5

39.5

100.0

Total

100.0

Source: Field Survey, 2025

Lack of joy and happiness among the surveyed old-age population reveals that this is a common issue. Out of

the 38 individuals surveyed, a majority of 23 people, or 60.5%, reported a lack of interest or joy over the past

month. In contrast, 15 people, or 39.5%, responded that they did not experience this feeling. This indicates that

while not universal, a lack of joy is a prevalent emotional concern for a majority of the old-age population

within this surveyed group.

Table No. 22: Actual Challenges of elderly

N = 38

Challenges

Frequency

Valid Percent

Valid

Ageism and a lost sense of purpose

Financial Insecurity

Difficulty with everyday tasks and mobility

Finding the right care provision

Access to healthcare services

End of life preparations

Taking care of grandchildren

Source: Field Survey, 2025

The two most significant challenges, according to both frequency and valid percent, are financial insecurity

and ageism. These issues affect a majority of the individuals surveyed, highlighting their prominence.

 Financial Insecurity is the most frequent challenge, with 22 reported instances (58% of valid

responses). This suggests that financial stability is a major concern for many older adults.

 Ageism and a lost sense of purpose are also very common, with 21 instances (55% of valid

responses). This indicates that emotional and social challenges related to feeling devalued are

widespread.

Challenges related to physical well-being, such as difficulty with everyday tasks and mobility, are the third

most frequent, with 13 instances (34% of valid responses). The least frequent challenges are taking care of

grandchildren (2 instances) and access to healthcare services (5 instances), suggesting they are less common

issues for this group.

Problems of Aged:

Aging creates so many problems for the individuals and also for the society. As inequalities and age

suggestions breed misunderstandings, cleavages and potential conflict between age strata. As people grow

older they move through a socially structured sequence of roles. Age is a criterion for entering and leaving

these roles and for evaluating performance. Problems of aging are intensified during life course transitions. A

transition involves relinquishing a former role as well as assuming a new one, which results in two types of

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN APPLIED SCIENCE (IJRIAS)

ISSN No. 2454-6194 | DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS |Volume X Issue XI November 2025

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problems:

 The strains of learning the new role and adjusting to it.

 The pain associated with loss of the former role

Thus in every stage of life, there are problems to be solved but the problems that one encounters with growing

old are more severe. The problems of the aged men and women may be different and similarly the aged

livings in enforced retirement have different problems from those people working in unorganized sectors or

who are self-employed. However, age as a category has some unique problems that are entailed by social,

economic factors and also by the factor of health.

1. Economic Problems

2. Social Problems

3. Health Problems

4. Psychological Problems

Remedial Measures:

In order to solve the problem of the aged all developed nations have undertaken various social, legislative,

reformative and welfare measure. There are old homes in every nation, which give physical protection,

medical aid and economic security to the aged people. Assistance is given to the old people by means of old

age allowance, pension, accident benefits and free medical aid etc.

The fulfillment of certain essential needs of an elderly is as follows;

 A good medical and psychiatric service to maintain and increase health as well as prolong life.

 Adequate living arrangements.

 Opportunities for emotional security and social usefulness.

 Opportunities for financial security upon retirement.

 Facilities for the care of the chronically ill.

 Opportunities for continuation of creative activities/guidance in the effective use of leisure.

 Home for the aged.

 Employment for aged people.

 Social needs of elderly.

 Government policies and programmes.

SUMMARY & CONCLUSION

The study, which surveyed 38 individuals aged 60 and over, reveals several key demographic characteristics of

the older population in the Manzini region. The majority of respondents were in the 61-65 age group (55.3%),

with a nearly equal split between males (52.6%) and females (47.4%). A significant portion of the sample lives

in joint families (65.8%) and is married (65.8%). In terms of education, more respondents had primary

education (23.7%), and the sample was overwhelmingly Christian (92.1%).

The analysis of health and lifestyle issues highlights some critical challenges:

 Health Conditions: A vast majority of respondents (73.7%) reported having at least one long-term

illness. The most prevalent conditions were back and neck pain/osteoarthritis (21.6%) and diabetes

(21.6%). Despite these health issues, a large majority (73.7%) do not have healthcare benefits or

insurance (73.7%).

 Habits and Cognition: Most respondents do not smoke (81.6%) or drink alcohol (76.3%). However,

there's a significant split regarding cognitive and physical health. Nearly half (47.4%) reported

regularly forgetting things, and over a third (36.8%) reported falling or losing balance.

 Emotional Well-being: The study identifies widespread emotional distress. A majority of respondents

(76.3%) have noticed behavioral changes, and a striking 81.6% have felt sad, depressed, or hopeless in

the past month. A significant number (60.5%) also reported a lack of interest or joy.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN APPLIED SCIENCE (IJRIAS)

ISSN No. 2454-6194 | DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS |Volume X Issue XI November 2025

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The study concludes that the most significant challenges for the elderly in Manzini are financial insecurity

(58%) and ageism/a lost sense of purpose (55%). While less common, difficulties with everyday tasks (34%)

are also a notable concern. The article emphasizes the need for remedial measures, particularly highlighting the

importance of family support to reduce the generation gap and improve the life situation of older adults.

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Online Sources:

1. https://population.un.org/wpp/assets/Files/WPP2024_Summary-of-Results.pdf

2. https://data.un.org/Data.aspx?q=Eswatini&d=PopDiv&f=variableID%3A12%3BcrID%3A748

3. https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/eswatini-regions/

4. https://www.jetir.org/view?paper=JETIR2404H01

5. https://amzn.asia/d/cCjzb8L