Socio-economic and clinical impact of the old age pension in Lesotho

What is it about?

The study assessed the impact of the old age pension in the sub Saharan country of Lesotho, which started the old age pension scheme in 2004 for the elderly aged at least 70 years. The elderly's level of satisfaction with the major aspects of life, namely physical, social, psychological and environmental aspects were assessed using a standardised World Health Organization questionnaire. Findings indicated that the elderly were most satisfied with their social and psychological aspects, while they were least satisfied with their physical health and environmental aspects. The study discusses these aspects at length and presents factor analyses of the likely characteristics influencing their quality of life (QoL). The 70-year threshold for qualifying into the pension scheme and sufficiency of the pension are also discussed.

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Why is it important?

This study is the first to assess the impact of the old age pension on the health-related QoL aspects considered important by WHO. The assessment highlights what is needed to improve the positive impact of the old age pension in Lesotho.

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