The Role of the Community in Improving the Quality of Life of the Rural Elderly People: A Study

Kazi Sonia Rahman, Joint Director Joint Director, Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD) , Bangladesh,
Farida Yeasmin, Deputy Director Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD) , Bangladesh

Keywords: Rural elderly, Community support, Bangladesh, Livelihood, Social isolation, Caregiver burden

This study explores the role of community support in enhancing the quality of life for rural elderly

populations in Bangladesh. With an aging demographic and increasing life expectancy, elderly individuals

in rural areas face various socio-economic and health-related challenges, including dependency, financial

instability, and social isolation. This research, conducted in selected villages of the Cumilla district, uses a

mixed-methods approach, combining surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions, to assess the living

conditions, challenges, and support mechanisms available to elderly individuals. Findings reveal that while

community-level and institutional initiatives, such as social security programs, provide critical support,

gaps remain in the accessibility and reliability of these services. The study underscores the importance of

strengthening community involvement and improving healthcare, economic aid, and social engagement

programs to foster a more inclusive environment for the elderly. Recommendations include enhancing

medical care, ensuring timely delivery of benefits, and fostering local support networks to address the

evolving needs of this vulnerable population.