THE PLIGHT OF ELDERLY PEOPLE WITHOUT A PENSION: A STUDY OF SELECTED COMMUNITIES IN KATSINA METROPOLIS

The growing population of elderly people in Nigeria, particularly those without access to pension or formal retirement support, presents a critical social and economic concern. This study examines the multifaceted challenges faced by elderly individuals without pensions in selected communities within Katsina Metropolis. The study sought to investigate four key dimensions: general challenges faced by the elderly without pensions, financial difficulties, housing problems, and psychological challenges. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to 334 elderly respondents, selected through multi-stage sampling. The sample size was determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s table for determining sample size from a known population. The findings revealed that the majority of elderly individuals lacked formal education and had previously engaged in informal sector jobs that did not qualify them for pension benefits. The respondents reported significant hardship, including inability to meet daily needs, lack of access to healthcare, poor housing conditions, and social neglect. Financial instability was severe, with most respondents unable to afford food, medication, or transportation for hospital visits. Housing conditions were deplorable, with many living in overcrowded or dilapidated structures lacking basic amenities. Additionally, a large proportion of the elderly expressed feelings of loneliness, depression, and hopelessness reflecting the deep psychological impact of aging without support. The study concludes that the absence of pension or structured social security for elderly individuals in Katsina Metropolis contributes to widespread poverty, social exclusion, and emotional distress. It recommends the implementation of non-contributory pension schemes, expansion of social protection programs, provision of subsidized healthcare and housing, and the establishment of community support structures. Addressing the plight of the elderly is crucial to ensuring social justice, human dignity, and improved quality of life for aging populations in Nigeria.