Living Arrangements and Dependency Levels among Elderly People in Chandragiri Municipality, Nepal

Abstract

Living arrangements of elderly people play a vital role in their welfare, with co-residence as well as independent living being the primary forms. As the global inhabitants of elderly rises, challenges in healthcare, standard of living, and social support become more pronounced. In the context of Nepal, migration and modernization are deteriorating traditional family-based caregiving, increasing the vulnerability of elderly. With minimal government intervention, co-residential living remains prevalent. This study aims to assess the living arrangements and dependency levels among elderly people in Chandragiri Municipality. A descriptive analytical cross-sectional study design was used. Out of 15 wards 10, 12 and 14 wards were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a pre-designed, pre-tested questionnaire; collected data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) with descriptive statistics analysis and inferential tests. Out of 422 elderly people, almost (62.2%) were aged 60–70 years, and 55.7% were female. Living arrangements varied, with 51.7% living with a spouse and 70.4% were lived with their son/daughter-in-law. Elderly dependency on offspring was 59.0%, while 44.8% of elderly received good family care. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between age group and living with a spouse (p=0.001) and offspring dependency (p=0.001). Elderly aged 60–70 years reported higher life satisfaction (p=0.015). The study highlights the impact of living arrangements and dependency on elderly well-being. The majority (90%) of elderly people reported higher life satisfaction and dependence on offspring. Strengthening family and social support is important for improving elderly care and quality of life.