POPULATION AGEING AND THE CHALLENGES FACED BY OLDER PERSONS IN LESOTHO

Abstract

The decline in inter-generational solidarity as a result of socio-structural processes such as modernisation, globalisation and migration have made older persons in many African countries increasingly vulnerable. The aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by older persons in Lesotho and how to address them. The study adopted a qualitative approach, while snowball and purposive sampling were employed to recruit older persons and social workers, respectively, for the study. Data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews. Poverty, food insecurity and ageism were found to be the major challenges faced by the older persons. Although eligible older persons receive old age pensions or public assistance, these are not effective in addressing poverty. Social workers should embrace the developmental approach, which involves advocacy, the implementation of income-generating projects, building assets for the poor, and productive employment to create opportunities for the long-term social security for older persons.