Role of Local Governments in Promoting the Welfare of the Elderly in Bumbo Sub County Namisndwa District
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Date
2025-09-08
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
This study examines the role of local governments in promoting the welfare of the elderly in Bumbo subcounty Namisndwa District. The main objectives were to find out the different social Welfares programs and policies for the elderly and to establish the social welfare challenges facing the elderly and to suggest the strategies to improve the social welfare of elderly. The study used a mixed method research design whereby both qualitative and quantitative research methods were used. The findings revealed that that various social welfare programmes for elderly were available which among other includes Social Pensions, health support programme for the elderly Health Programs, Community-Based Care Initiatives are available for elderly, Livelihood Support Programs, Advocacy and Legal Frameworks, Social Security, Home and Community-Based Services it was also established that elders in Bumbo Sub County face several welfare challenges which included Limited Access to Financial Security, Inadequate Healthcare Access challenges, Food Insecurity & Malnutrition, Social Isolation & Lack of Support, Weak Legal Protection & Advocacy, Poor Livelihood Opportunities and Corruption among others.
Various strategies for improving welfare programs for elderly were suggested which included. Expand pension coverage to more elderly citizens in Uganda. Elderly people should have free or subsidized healthcare services, Community-based support groups are effective in improving the well-being of the elderly, Financial literacy programs would help elderly individuals manage their resources better, Stronger social protection policies are needed to safeguard elderly rights (e.g., against abuse or exploitation, Income-generating activities (e.g., farming, crafts) should be promoted among the elderly. Based on the study findings, the study concluded the welfare of the elderly in Bumbo Sub County largely confirm regional trends but highlight unique distrust in formal systems. Policymakers should adapt proven models like community healthcare and transport vouchers while addressing contextual barriers (e.g., pension distrust, low financial literacy engagement It was therefore recommended that the government should Prioritize Healthcare and Mobility as Immediate Interventions, Expand free geriatric clinics in rural areas and subsidize essential medicines. Partner with transport unions to provide discounted.