Abstract:
Population aging is happening fastest globally and the growth in life expectancy presents new
opportunities and also it is challenge in itself. The elderly need support from other actors
such as family, government, NGOs and community.
The objective of this study was to examine living conditions of the elderly and social support
practices taking the case of Durame town administration in Kembata Tembaro zone of
SNNPR. To attain the intended objective of the study, qualitative approach was employed
with narrative design. Data were collected through in-depth interview, focus group
discussions, key informant interviews, field observation and secondary documents. Indepth
interviews were conducted with the elderly and the focus group discussions were conducted
with the elderly and members of community care coalition. The key informants were the
experts from the Labor and Social Affairs Office, leaders of the Iddirs, religious institutions
and the informal association. The data were analyzed using content and thematic analysis.
The result indicated that the elderly of the study area particularly those who lack reciporical
relationship with their family are in a difficult situation. Their means of livelihood is begging
and support from the community. Moreover, their residential housing and health conditions
are also problematic. Thus,most of the elderly are living in a deteriorated life and the formal
social support schemes are not implemented at the town except pension payment for some
elderly where as the social support practice from the community in organized way is good
beginning, although it couldn`t fulfill the basic needs of the elderly. The social support being
provided emberaces only limited number of destitute elderly. The rest elderly are complaining
and they feel that they are excluded. Both enhancing opportunities and hindering challenges t
hat may influence the provision of social support for the elderly were identified by this study.
Finally, it is suggested that according to the policy, the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs
needs to plan formal support for the elderly through productive urban safety net program to
support the elderly.
