Social research for empowerment: the case of South African seniors

Abstract

South Africa's seniors number over 1,5 million and they age in a variety of social circumstances. The 1990-91 multidimensional survey is the first comprehensive socio-economic study of South Africans of all population groups over 60 years of age. The questionnaire survey, which was conducted among a representative sample of 4 400 urban and rural dwellers, covers aspects of financial security, health, living arrangements and lifestyles, social support and perceived quality of life. The article gives an overview of preliminary research findings. Successful ageing is indicated by measures of subjective wellbeing. The paper describes the social circumstances of the different elderly population groups and explores their relationship to perceived wellbeing. It is concluded that lifestyle advantages do not offset socio-economic disadvantages among the less privileged elderly. Redressing social inequalities affecting seniors in a youthful society is a challenge for post-apartheid society.