Peranan Anak Lelaki Sebagai Penjaga Utama Warga Tua Melayu di Luar Bandar: Kajian Kes di Daerah Jerantut, Pahang

The Role of Sons as the Guardian for the Elderly in Rural Areas: A Case Study in Jerantut, Pahang

Abstract

An improved health status has lead to increased life expectancy and number of older people in Malaysia. This article explores specific aspects related to living arrangements among the elderly Malays namely inclination to stay with their sons as compared to their daughters. By using the rural and suburb areas of Jerantut, Pahang as a case study, this article examined the role of the son as the primary caregiver of the elderly, especially those who are sick and bedridden; and also sons as financial resources expected by the elderly. The study involved 54 elderly Malays aged 60 years and above from different economic backgrounds. The elderly, who live with their married son, whether in the home of the elderly or in the home of their son, will be selected as respondents. Information were collected using questionnaires and were analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS). The study shows that elderly women are more likely to live with adult son (eldest son), while elderly men are more likely to stay with the youngest son. The study also found that sons play a key role in managing the affairs of the elderly health care, including treatment in hospital. This study contributes to the knowledge of the important role of sons in taking care of the affairs of the elderly, which is rarely discussed in previous studies. Support obtained from the son is an important indicator in reducing loneliness and thus led to the welfare of the elderly who live in rural areas.