Factors Influencing Contribution of Geriatric Persons in the Society: A Glance from a Rural Area of West Bengal

ABSTRACT

Background: To facilitate healthy aging in India, it is important not only to acknowledge older people’s contribution but also to understand their perception regarding their impact in the society along with society’s attitude toward them. Objectives: This study aims to assess their self‑perceived contribution in the society and the factors related with their contribution. Methods: It was an observational, descriptive, cross‑sectional study, conducted at Amdanga block of North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal, during July 2021–June 2022. A total 0f 384 geriatrics were interviewed by the house‑to‑house survey with the help of a predesigned, pretested and semi‑structured schedule. Potential predictors of contribution were investigated using the multivariate logistic regression model. Results: 78.9% of participants had contribution in the society. 85.9% were taking care of family members when they were sick. 93.2% were sharing their opinion with the family members. 86.5% were participating in various social works. 79.1% were suffering from at least one physical health problem. With increase in the number of health problems, chances of good contribution decreases. In case of self‑perceived contribution in the society family type, employment, physical health and social participation are influencing the most. Conclusion: Elderly people are taking care of not only family members, but even relatives and neighbors also. They are sharing their knowledge and experience with family members and in the society. They are also contributing financially. Employment and proper health‑care infrastructure for geriatric may be helpful to maximize their contribution.