HANOI NATIONAL UNIVERSITY
UNIVERSITY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES
Nguyen Trung Hai
SOCIAL PORTRAIT AND EMPLOYMENT OF THE ELDERLY IN HANOI THROUGH A STUDY IN NAM TU LIEM DISTRICT
Major: Sociology
Code: 62.31.03.01
SUMMARY OF DOCTORAL THESIS IN SOCIOLOGY
HANOI - 2020
The project was completed at: University of Social Sciences and Humanities
Scientific supervisor: Prof. Dr. Le Thi Quy
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The thesis will be defended before the basic-level Council for evaluating doctoral thesis meeting at ........................................................................................................................
At hour date month year 2020
Thesis can be found at:
- National Library of Vietnam
- Information Center - Library, Vietnam National University, Hanoi
LIST OF AUTHOR'S SCIENTIFIC WORKS RELATED TO THE THESIS
Nguyen Trung Hai (2019), “Identify challenges in the family life of the elderly people through research in Nam Tu Liem District – Hanoi”,Proceedings of the international scientific conference on Social work in Vietnam - Theoretical and practical issues, Ho Chi Minh City National University Publishing House.
Nguyen Trung Hai (2019), "The need to participate in the labor market of the elderly in Nam Tu Liem district - Hanoi from the perspective of work motivation theory",Education Magazine(special issue), pp. 105 – 109.
Nguyen Trung Hai and Nguyen Thi Vinh Ha (2019), "Orientation of social policy to promote elderly resources to contribute to socio-economic development",State Management Journal(286), pp. 47 – 50.
INTRODUCTION
1. Reason for choosing the topic
Vietnam is considered to be the country with the fastest aging rate, because it only took Vietnam about 18 years to transform from a young population to an old population. This creates profound changes in the economic life of the elderly and forces many of them to continue participating in the labor market to ensure their livelihood [Unions Unis, 2007, p. 9].
Similarly, the reality of population aging also creates profound changes in the social life of the elderly. In the current context of Vietnam, the family life of many elderly people is becoming increasingly monotonous due to the phenomenon of "household separation". This reality makes the relationship between many elderly people and their children and grandchildren increasingly "loose", leading to a decrease in the respect that family members have for the elderly [Thangavel Palanivel et al, 2016, pp. 17 - 18].
Therefore, to adapt to increasingly boring family life, many elderly people actively participate in social activities with the aim of finding joy, helping to reduce loneliness in old age, as well as strengthening social solidarity [Unions Unis, 2007; Vietnam National Committee on the Elderly, 2016].
Faced with the above changes in economic and social life, the topic focuses on researching "Social portrait and work ofNCTHanoi through research in Nam Tu Liem district”.
2. Research purpose
2.1. Purposeshared
The topic contributes to supplementing theoretical and practical knowledge to build a social portrait of the elderly in the family and in the community, as well as the participation of the elderly in labor market. Based on the research, the topic proposes orientations and solutions to improve the lives of this population group.
2.1. Specific purposes:
3. Research subjects and objects
3.1. Research subjects
Social portrait and employment of the elderly.
3.2. Research object
4. Scope of research
4.1. About space
The thesis was conducted in Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi using the method of purposeful site selection.
4.2. About time
The thesis was carried out in the period from 2016 to 2019.
4.3. About content:
Content 1: Overview of research on social portrait and employment of the elderly.
Content 2Theoretical basis for research on social portrait and employment of the elderly, research methods, as well as practical basis of the research topic.
Content 3: Analysis of social portrait sketched from the family life of the elderly in Nam Tu Liem district, Hanoi.
Content 4: Analysis of social portrait sketched from the community life of the elderly in Nam Tu Liem district, Hanoi.
Content 5: Analysis of survey results on employment of the elderly in Nam Tu Liem district, Hanoi.
Content 6Proposing solutions to contribute to improving the quality of life of the elderly.
5. Research questions, hypotheses and analytical framework
5.1. Research question
How is the social portrait of the elderly portrayed in the family and in the community? What are the characteristics of their work?
5.2. Research hypothesis
Most older people establish close, strong relationships with family members, relatives, neighbors and friends before and after the age of 60. Many people perform a high level of responsibility in supporting their families and communities, and receive high respect from these entities. However, the social portrait of older people differs according to social groups. Male older people who are in good health and enjoy social security have closer, stronger social relationships, have higher social responsibility with their families and communities, and receive higher respect from their families and communities than other groups of older people.
The employment of the elderly is mainly driven by economic factors. However, after the age of 60, many of them do simple jobs, do not have labor contracts, have long working hours and lower incomes than before the age of 60. However, that job brings them high satisfaction. However, the employment of the elderly is different according to different social groups in terms of gender, health, and social welfare status.
6. Scientific and practical significance
6.1. Scientific significance.
Topic:
Contribute to clarifying the theoretical system of concepts related to research subjects and issues such as: elderly people, social portrait and employment.
Contribute to verifying and developing work motivation theory, social identity theory and social position and role theory.
Contribute to raising social awareness of the meaning and necessity of studying the lives of the elderly.
Contribute to providing scientific arguments for implementing policies to improve the quality of life of the elderly.
6. 2. Practical significance
The research topic studies the living conditions of the elderly working in Nam Tu Liem district, Hanoi city, thereby sketching a part of the picture of the social portrait and employment of this population group.
The analysis highlights the characteristics of the social portrait of the elderly according to the dimensions of gender, health, social security status and working area.
The topic also analyzes and highlights the employment status of the elderly according to the dimensions of gender, health and social welfare status;
The research results will contribute to raising awareness of the community, as well as of the elderly themselves, about their lives.
7. Structure of the thesis
A. Introduction - B. Body - C. Conclusion and recommendations
CONTENT SECTION
Chapter 1. OVERVIEW OF RESEARCH ON SOCIAL PROFILE AND EMPLOYMENT OF THE ELDERLY
1.1. Group of studies on social portraits expressed through the family life of the elderly
1.1.1. Existential lonelinessin family lifeof the elderly
The change in family structure has made many elderly people increasingly lonely in their own homes. This is happening in both developed and developing countries. In many households, children/grandchildren tend to leave the family life early to build their own lives outside [Denis Mannaerts, 2016, pp. 10 - 24].
Moreover, the reduction in family size also makes many elderly people feel disappointed even in their daily meals [Truong Thi Lam Ha, 2008, pp. 3 - 4].
1.1.2.Regression in position and rolein the family of the elderly
In traditional society, the elderly always have a prominent position and role compared to other members. However, in modern society, their position and role are increasingly declining because the young generation gives themselves more autonomy [Denis Mannaerts, 2016, pp. 19 - 16].
Furthermore, the transformation from traditional to modern family models creates a qualitative change in the relationships between the elderly and their children and grandchildren, accordingly, this relationship is gradually shifting from submission to equality and consensus, even shifting to a state of reduced respect for the elderly [Nguyen Thi Ngoc Ha, 2016, pp. 84 - 85; Nguyen Huu Minh, 2012; Le Ngoc Lan, 2011]
1.1.3.Scare, support positiveof children, grandchildrenfor seniors
The relationship between family members always occupies a special position because it includes the meaning of bloodline, affection, cultural and social traditions. Therefore, the family is a peaceful support for the elderly to live happily in old age. Caring for the spiritual life of children and grandchildren always has great significance for the elderly and filial children and grandchildren are those who know how to care, visit and encourage the elderly when they are sick or in pain [Nguyen The Hue, 2017; Le Van Kham, 2014a].
1.2. Group of studies on social portraits expressed through the community life of the elderly
1.2.1. Active participation in social activities of the elderly
Older people are now more interested in participating in social activities. This participation stems from their awareness of the benefits of protecting their health, of social integration, as well as of preventing depression, anxiety and social isolation... [Denis Mannaerts, 2016; Odília Maria Rocha Gouveia et al., 2016].
1.2.2. Suhsocial respect for the elderly
Research by Drennan.J et al. (2009), Kyu-Taik Sung (2010), as well as many other authors, shows that the elderly at the present stage still receive higher social respect than other population groups.
However, studies by some authors such as Phan Dai Doan (2010), Vo Dinh Lien (2016), Ministry of Health (2017), Nguyen The Hue (2017), or the General Department of Population - Family Planning and UNPFRA (2013)... also pointed out the phenomenon of disrespect for the elderly in a minority, but this phenomenon tends to spread more and more.
1.3. Group of studies on labor market participation of the elderly
1.3.1. Motivations for participation in the labor market of the elderly
Despite reaching retirement age, many elderly people continue to participate in the labor market for various reasons. Their motivation to work may stem from the need for social interaction, health training, and contribution to society, but may also stem from the need to ensure their own livelihood [Denis Mannaerts, 2016; Weber. D et al., 2016].
1.3.2. Current status of labor market participation of the elderly
According to research results of the United Nations Population Fund, the labor force aged 60 and over in Vietnam is increasing rapidly [UNFPA, 2016]. However, the majority of the elderly work in the informal sector (ISP), and often in the small business and service sector [Phan Thi Minh Hien, 2017; UNFPA, 2016]. The jobs they undertake are often highly precarious, and the actual salary they receive from their work is low. Moreover, the working environment is often unsafe and they rarely care about labor safety conditions [UNFPA, 2016]. Many elderly people are willing to work for lower wages than the general level of society [Mac Van Tien, 2015].
Chapter 2. THEORETICAL BASIS, RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND PRACTICAL BASIS OF THE TOPIC
2.1. Tool concepts
2.1.1.Senior Citizen
According to the World Health Organization, as well as the 2012 Law on the Elderly in Vietnam, the termNCT is used to describe people aged 60 and over..
2.1.2. Social portrait of the elderly
Social portrait in the familyof NCT is understood to include:
Relationships between people aged 60 and over and other family members, as reflected in their marital status, number of family relationships, and their behavior toward other family members.Family responsibilities of people aged 60 and over are expressed through the responsibility to guide and advise children/grandchildren, as well as the responsibility to reconcile family conflicts and make major decisions in the family.Family respect for people aged 60 and over is reflected in the level of respect for guidance and advice for children/grandchildren, family conflict mediation and major household decisions, as well as the level of satisfaction of this population group with respect from family members.Relationships between people aged 60 and over with close friends, relatives and neighbours are expressed through the frequency of visits, sharing of personal stories, as well as conflicts with each other.Social responsibility of people aged 60 and over is demonstrated through the level of willingness to help close friends, relatives, and neighbors overcome family conflicts and difficulties.Social esteem for people aged 60 and over is reflected in the level of esteem that close friends, relatives, and neighbors place on the opinions expressed by this population group, as well as their level of satisfaction with social esteem.
2.1.3. Work ofelderly
Employment of the elderly is understood to include activities that generate personal income for people aged 60 and over, activities that are not prohibited by law.
2.2. Approach theories
2.2.1. Theory of work motivation
Human motivation to work is influenced by three basic factors: the need to establish social relationships, the need to integrate into an official social group, and the group's dynamism when working together towards achieving the set goals.
Human motivation to work also depends on expectations in work. Accordingly, needs are an important factor that motivates people to work. Based on the nature of work goals, employees will determine their own motivation to work and from there make decisions to perform or abandon their work.
2.2.2. Social identity theory
In essence, social identity theory deals primarily with individuals in relation to their environment in order to indicate their social identity. This identity can only exist in relation to others.
Therefore, social identity theory always refers to an individual in two aspects, which are personal identity and social identity. Personal identity includes the unique characteristics of each individual, while social identity is the social characteristics that the individual achieves when participating in different social groups, and is also ascribed by these social groups.
According to social identity theory, the process of perceiving and complying with the social values of the group contributes to establishing, consolidating and developing the social values of each member of the group. This means that the social identity of an individual reflects the social identity of the group and it is built on the basis of social relationships that interact and recognize each other.
2.2.3. Position and role theory
According to the theory of social status, the hierarchical distribution of social status is clearly shown when an individual joins a social group, because then the social position that each member occupies will be different. Therefore, talking about social status also means talking about social comparison between members in the group. This comparison is related to many different factors such as: income, education, employment, ideology, cultural values ...
The social position that an individual occupies can be a position assigned by society or a position achieved by the individual. Ascribed social positions are positions associated with cultural and ideological factors of that social group. Achieved social positions are positions associated with personal factors such as: occupation, income, life experience...
According to social role theory, role is a term used to describe behavior that conforms to social norms or social expectations for individual behavior in different social positions.
Role theory explains that people in different social positions hold different responsibilities, so they need to behave appropriately according to their position and meet social expectations.
In sociology, a role is understood as a consensus among a group of interacting individuals. Through the mechanism of consensus, individuals in the group jointly establish a theoretical behavior that applies to everyone placed in that position.
2.3. Research method
2.3.1. Document summary method
Using this method allows the thesis to collect information through many different research topics to serve the purpose of writing a research overview, forming theoretical thinking, and analytical thinking of the results obtained in the thesis.
2.3.2. Observation method
This observation process was carried out at many times during the day to collect diverse and rich information about the lives of the elderly.
2.3.3. Questionnaire survey method
The formula for calculating the sample size that satisfies the requirement of having a standard deviation ranging from 1% to 5% and a confidence interval up to 95% is determined as follows:
|
n = |
t²x p(1-p) |
|
m² |
In which: n: is the number of samples to be surveyed
t: is the confidence level (up to 90%, 95%, or 99%)
p : estimated rate (estimated rate of working elderly)
m: allowable error (at 5% or reduced to 1%).
According to the above calculation formula, as well as based on the Household Living Standards Survey Data Set conducted by the General Statistics Office nationwide in 2016, the sample size of the survey is up to 480 elderly people who are working to generate their own income.
2.4. Overview of the research area and characteristics of the elderly
2.4.1. Overview of the research area
Nam Tu Liem District was formed on the basis of administrative division of Tu Liem District according to Resolution No. 132/NQ-CP issued on December 27, 2013 by the Government. The total population reached 368,174 people in 2016. By the end of 2018, the total income of the district reached 44,585 billion VND, of which, trade - services contributed to 57.5% of GDP, industry - construction contributed 42.3%, and agriculture accounted for only 0.2%. The socio-economic development report also showed that the number of households meeting cultural standards was up to 88.4% and focused on households with the elderly.
The elderly aged 60-64 account for 35.0%, aged 65-69 account for 60.0% and aged 70 and above account for 29.0%, of which men account for 47.9% and women account for 52.1%. The number of elderly with good health = 13.8%, normal = 75.0% and poor health = 11.3%. The number of elderly receiving social security = 42.5%, not receiving = 57.5%.
Chapter 3. SOCIAL PORTRAITS SKETCHED FROM THE FAMILY LIFE OF THE ELDERLY IN NAM TU LIEM, HANOI
3.1. Family relationships of the elderly
The proportion of elderly people living with a spouse was high before the age of 60, but decreased sharply after the age of 60, from 83.3% to 57.5%. The proportion of elderly people living in households with 3 or more generations accounted for the majority, reaching 52.1% before the age of 60 and, although there was a slight decrease, still reached 51.7% after the age of 60. The number of elderly people living in households with only 1 generation also increased, from 5.0% before the age of 60 to 16.7% after the age of 60. The average number of elderly household members reached 5.4 people after the age of 60, a decrease of 0.3 people compared to the previous period.
3.1.2. Elderly people's behavior towards family
NCT often “Share joys, sorrows, and difficulties with family” in the period before and after the age of 60. The average score (ASP) assessing this behavior was 3.65 points and 3.60 points, respectively, on a 5-point scale, in which 1 is never and 5 is very often.
Similarly, the elderly also have conflicts with relatives, which are expressed through behavior.speak harshly to family”. The mean score measuring this level was 2.23 points in the period before age 60 and 2.36 points in the period after age 60.
3.2. Family responsibilities of the elderly
3.2.1. Responsibility for guiding and advising children and grandchildren
Up to 43.5% and 25.6% of the elderly admitted that taking responsibility for career guidance for their children/grandchildren is "absolutely right" in the period before and after age 60.
Similarly, 43.1% of the elderly before the age of 60, and 35.0% after the age of 60, admitted that it was "absolutely right" for them to carry out their responsibility to advise and help their children/grandchildren overcome difficulties.
3.2.2. Responsibility for reconciling conflicts and making major decisionsin the house
Up to 36.0% and 35.2% of the elderly admitted that regularly performing the responsibility of mediating family conflicts was "Absolutely correct" before and after the age of 60.
Similarly, the number of elderly people who admit that making major decisions in the family (such as: filial piety, weddings, buying/repairing houses, internal and external affairs...) is "completely correct" up to 43.8% before the age of 60 and 41.9% after the age of 60.
3.3. Family respect for the elderly
3.3.1. Level of respect for the elderly's guidance and advice from family
The average score measuring the level of listening to career orientation opinions for children/grandchildren of the elderly from the family is always high, up to 3.89 points on a 5-point scale in the period before the age of 60 and 3.80 points in the period after the age of 60. This shows that the elderly receive great respect from the family.
Similarly, the average score for the level of listening to opinions on “advice to help children/grandchildren overcome difficulties” reached 3.89 points and 3.95 points in the period before and after age 60.
3.3.2. Level of respect for the reconciliation of conflicts and decisions of the elderly by the family
The average score reflecting the level of listening to conflict resolution opinions from family members for the elderly reached 3.96 points before the age of 60 and, although it decreased slightly, it still reached 3.92 points after the age of 60.
The level of listening to opinions on “major decisions in the family” from family members for the elderly also reflects the recognition and respect of the elderly by the family. The average score measuring this level of listening was 4.06 points in the period before age 60 and 4.02 points in the period after age 60.
3.3.3. Level of satisfaction of the elderly with respect from family
The DTB measures the level of satisfaction with respect from family members from the elderly up to 4.31 points on a 5-point scale in the period before age 60 and 4.39 points in the period after age 60. This means that the elderly have high satisfaction with that respect.
Chapter 4. SOCIAL PORTRAITS SKETCHED FROM THE COMMUNITY LIFE OF THE ELDERLY IN NAM TU LIEM, HANOI
4.1. Social relations of the elderly
4.1.1. Frequency of visiting close friends, relatives and neighbors
Based on the average score achieved on a 5-point scale, the elderly before the age of 60 maintained a high frequency of visiting close friends, relatives and neighbors (average = 3.62; = 3.61 and = 3.25). Although this level decreased after the age of 60, the frequency of maintaining social relationships of the elderly was still impressive (average = 3.50; = 3.25 and = 3.23).
4.1.2. Frequency of sharing personal stories with close friends, relatives, neighbors
The survey results show that the level of sharing is not large. The average fluctuates around 2.5 points in both the period before and after age 60, which means it is at an average level compared to a scale of values from 1 to 5, in which 5 is very often.
4.1.3. Frequency of conflicts with close friends, relatives, neighbors
In fact, the survey shows that the average score for the level of conflict between the elderly and their close friends, relatives and neighbors fluctuates at a low level, below 2 points, which means it is inclined towards never happening, although this average score shows that there is conflict between the elderly and the community. However, the average score for the level of conflict between the elderly and the community after the age of 60 is lower than that in the previous stage (average score = 1.56, = 1.76 and = 1.76 compared to = 1.83, = 1.83 and = 1.89).
4.2. Social responsibility of the elderly
4.2.1.Willingness to help close friends, relatives, neighbors overcome family conflicts
The mean scores of the elderly's willingness to help close friends overcome family conflicts were always high on a 5-point scale, whether before or after the age of 60 (mean = 3.81 and = 3.68). This was similarly observed in the group of relatives (mean = 3.7 and = 3.69) and neighbors (mean = 3.7 and = 3.5). However, the elderly's willingness to help in the post-60 period decreased compared to the previous period, although the level of decline was still at a low threshold.
4.2.2. Willingness to help close friends, relatives, neighbors overcome difficulties
The mean score for the level of willingness to provide community support among the elderly before the age of 60 was always impressive (on a 5-point scale, where 1 is never and 5 is very willing). This mean score ranged from 3.86 in the neighborhood group, to 4.19 in the close friends group, and reached 4.21 in the relatives group. Although it decreased after the age of 60, this mean score continued to be high, with the lowest score reaching 3.50 in the neighborhood group and the highest score reaching 3.69 in the relatives group.
4.3. Social respect for the elderly
4.3.1. Level of respect from close friends, relatives and neighbors
The average score for the level of listening to the opinions of the elderly reached 3.81 points from close friends, 3.81 points from relatives and 3.41 points from neighbors before the age of 60. This higher than average score on a 5-point scale clearly shows the high respect that social groups have for the elderly. After the age of 60, the average score for the above level of respect continued to reach impressive levels, reaching 3.81 points, 3.62 points and 3.58 points, respectively.
4.3.2. Level of satisfaction of the elderly with respect from society
The average score of the elderly people's satisfaction was 4.19 points on a 5-point scale for close friends, 4.24 points for relatives, and 3.94 points for neighbors before the age of 60. Although this satisfaction level decreased after the age of 60, the average score was still very high, reaching 4.15 points, 4.10 points, and 3.98 points, respectively. This means that the elderly people have high satisfaction with the respect of society.
Chapter 5. EMPLOYMENT OF THE ELDERLY IN NAM TU LIEM, HANOI
5.1. Factors promoting participation in production activities of the elderly
5.1.1. Working engine
The survey results show that the economic motivation of the elderly in Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi has changed significantly. If before the age of 60, the number of elderly people admitting that the motivation to work to support themselves is "Completely true" is up to 61.6%, after the age of 60, this rate drops to 18.8%.
Similarly, the survey results showed that the motivation to work to make life less boring was “Absolutely true” at only 14.2% when the elderly were under the age of 60, but then increased to 21.3% after the age of 60.
Finally, the survey results show that “respect” from children/grandchildren, or the affirmation of one’s own value to society, becomes one of the important motivations for the elderly to work. However, this motivation decreases with age, because if in the period before the age of 60, up to 44.0% of the elderly admitted that the motivation to work for the respect of children/grandchildren was “Absolutely right”, then in the period after the age of 60, this rate decreased to 36.7%.
5.1.2. Retirement needs
The survey results show that the number of elderly people with retirement needs expressed through their intention to work until they have enough money for retirement is "Absolutely correct" is low and there is an insignificant difference between the period before and after age 60 (15.2% and 14.8%).
Similarly, up to 46.3% of the elderly before the age of 60 admitted that they would withdraw from the labor force when they felt their health was not good enough to work, which is "Absolutely correct", and after the age of 60, this rate increased to 55.6%.
The proportion of elderly people who admitted that their intention to work until they are no longer employed was “Absolutely true” was up to 36.3% in the period before age 60 and 51.7% in the period after age 60.
5..2. Occupations of the elderly
5.2.1.Type of work
If in the period before the age of 60, the proportion of elderly people working in the agricultural sector accounts for 32.7%, then in the period after the age of 60, this proportion decreases to 21.7%. Meanwhile, the proportion of elderly people working in the business and service sector has increased sharply, from 39.6% to 71.9%.
The two main positions attracting the elderly before and after the age of 60 are self-employment (34.0% and 55.6%) and wage employment (31.9% and 25.2%).
However, although there is a high rate of signing labor contracts in the period before the age of 60, this rate decreases significantly in the period after the age of 60, corresponding to a decrease from 48.8% to 26.7%.
5.2.2. Working time
The survey results show that the average number of working days/week of the elderly before the age of 60 is 0.25 days longer than that of the elderly after the age of 60 (6.35 days/week compared to 6.10 days/week). This shows that the elderly have a high work intensity, because if considered by the number of working days, most of them need to spend the whole week on work without a day off.
Similarly, if we consider the average working hours, the elderly spend 9.34 hours/day working before the age of 60 and 7.55 hours/day after the age of 60. This also means that the elderly have high work intensity, if we consider the average working hours/day.
5.3. Work performance of the elderly
5.3.1. Taverage income from work
The survey results show that while the average monthly income from work of the elderly before the age of 60 is up to more than 7.2 million, after the age of 60, this income drops to nearly 5.5 million. This means a decrease of about 1.7 million/month.
5.3.2. Job satisfactionc
The results show that the job satisfaction of the elderly is higher than expected. The difference in the average score column always shows positive values. This means that the satisfaction that the elderly evaluate is higher than the score of 3 used as a comparison criterion. Accordingly, in the period before the age of 60, the elderly have the highest level of satisfaction with their own jobs (0.875 points higher than the score of 3). But in the period after the age of 60, the highest level of satisfaction is for working time (0.665 points higher than the score of 3).
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Conclude
Based on the economic and social approach, the thesis deals with the lives of the elderly with the aim of sketching their social portrait through their life in the family and in the community, as well as analyzing the employment status of this population group through the process of participating in the labor market, thereby proposing some solutions to contribute to improving the quality of life for the elderly.
With the above approach and research purpose, the thesis focuses on studying the social relationships and social responsibilities of the elderly with their families, close friends, relatives and neighbors, as well as studying the social respect from these social subjects for the elderly. The above contents are all mentioned according to different social groups in terms of gender, health, and social welfare status.
At the same time, with the above approach and purpose, the thesis analyzes in depth the factors that motivate participation in the labor market (work motivation, retirement needs), occupation (including job type and working time), and work performance of the elderly (income and job satisfaction). These contents are also analyzed according to different social groups in terms of gender, health, and social security beneficiary status.
The approach and purpose of the above research are clarified under the lens of social identity theory, social position and role theory and work motivation theory. Social identity theory and social position and role theory focus on analyzing social portraits in the family and in the community, thereby highlighting the social identity, position and role of the elderly through social relationships, social responsibilities and social respect. Meanwhile, work motivation theory is the main theory applied in the study of the employment status of the elderly to explain the factors that motivate participation in production activities, career choice, as well as work performance.
The approach and research objectives of the thesis are carried out using many different research methods, in which the most basic is the questionnaire survey method with 480 samples representing the elderly working and living in Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi. The selection of this sample size is based on scientific grounds on methodology and research methods, as well as on practical information about the research area, thanks to which the conclusions of the thesis have reliability and scientific value.
The combination of different research methods with the perspective from the above theories contributes to enriching the content of the theories, while allowing the thesis to answer the research questions and verify the proposed hypothesis.
The findings of the study allow the topic to outline the family life of the elderly, accordingly, the majority of the elderly are living with their spouses, in multi-generational households, although the size of their households has decreased after the age of 60. The majority of the elderly maintain close, friendly, positive, and good relationships with other family members both before and after the age of 60. This is demonstrated by the high GPA measuring the frequency of “Share joys, sorrows, and difficulties with family”, as well as through low DTB measures the frequency of “speak harshly to family”.
In family life, most of the elderly fulfill their responsibility of “advising and guiding” their children and grandchildren, as well as the responsibility of reconciling family conflicts and making important decisions in the family. Thanks to that, they receive high respect from their families.
The analysis of gender, health, and social welfare status has contributed to creating many social portraits in the family among the elderly groups. Accordingly, male elderly, in good health, and beneficiaries of social welfare face a lower risk of living alone in their families, but they are also the group with the lowest ability to maintain friendly, good relationships with other family members. The research results show that male elderly, in good health, and beneficiaries of social welfare are the group that more actively performs the responsibility of "Advice and orientation" for children and grandchildren, reconciles family conflicts, as well as makes major decisions in the family, thanks to which, they are the group that receives higher levels of respect from their families, and in general, they are also the group with higher satisfaction with that respect.
Similarly, through life in the community, the thesis has clearly outlined a part of the picture of the social portrait of the elderly in Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi. The research results reflect that the elderly here always know how to maintain good social relationships with close friends, relatives, and neighbors both before and after the age of 60. This is shown in the high frequency of visiting each other's houses, at an above average level of sharing personal stories, as well as at a low level of social conflicts.
In the process of participating in social activities, the elderly always fulfill their social responsibilities to the above-mentioned social entities, such as helping them to reconcile family conflicts, as well as supporting them to overcome the difficulties they encounter. Thanks to that, the elderly receive high respect from these social entities.
Similarly, the analysis of gender, health and social welfare status has contributed to creating different social portraits among the elderly groups. Accordingly, male elderly always have a richer social image than female elderly. Similarly, elderly with good health before the age of 60 and elderly with normal and poor health after the age of 60 are also social groups with more positive social portraits.
Elderly people who benefit from social security seem to participate less in social activities than those who do not benefit from it, but they are always the social group that receives higher social respect. This result seems to originate from economic factors because elderly people who benefit from social security are the group with higher average monthly income, and according to many different studies, economic status determines social status, thanks to which their opinions are listened to more, meaning they are respected at a higher level.
To study the employment status of the elderly, the thesis summarizes and analyzes the working motivation and retirement needs of this population group according to economic, personal and social factors. The findings of the study show that in the period before the age of 60, economic factors are the basic factors motivating the elderly to participate in the labor market, but in the period after the age of 60, personal and social factors become strong motivating factors.
Although economic factors are the most fundamental factors that motivate the elderly to participate in productive activities before the age of 60, they do not become the most fundamental factors affecting their retirement needs. Instead, personal and social factors continue to be the factors that strongly influence the retirement decisions of this population group.
Gender, health and social security status are factors that influence the participation of the elderly in labor market. However, this influence is not uniform, although in many cases the information obtained does not allow the thesis to draw statistically significant conclusions (P > 0.1).
During their participation in the labor market, the elderly work in many different occupations, and business and service are the sectors that attract the most elderly people to work after the age of 60. Similarly, households are the places where the highest number of elderly people work. However, most elderly people do not sign labor contracts after the age of 60. The changes in the field of work, specific jobs, job positions, and work addresses of the elderly from the period before to the period after the age of 60 are consistent with the socio-economic changes in Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi under the impact of the urbanization process, the process of converting land funds from agriculture to industry and services. The findings in the study also indicate the different relationships between gender, health and social factors because they create stability, as well as heterogeneous changes in the occupations of the elderly before and after the age of 60.
The findings of the study also show that the work intensity of the elderly is high when calculated by the average number of working days/week and the average number of working hours/day. The comparison results show that the average income from work of the elderly decreases after the age of 60. However, the income and the rate of decline in average income from work of the elderly fluctuate according to gender, health and social welfare status. In particular, regardless of the stage, female elderly, those with poor health and those without social welfare are the group with lower average income and a faster rate of income decline. However, during the process of participating in the labor market, the elderly have a positive view and evaluation of work, working time, as well as income from work. This evaluation shows the high level of satisfaction of the elderly with their own work.
Recommendation
To contribute to improving the quality of life for the elderly, the thesis proposes a number of measures applicable to the State, local authorities, households and the elderly themselves.
For the State
In the context of international integration, inclusive growth and sustainable development, the social policy system for the elderly needs to continue to be supplemented and improved in the direction of maximizing the position, role and great potential of the elderly, contributing to promoting economic growth and sustainable social development. Integrating social policy for the elderly in the development and implementation of other related policies and laws. It is necessary to change the mindset of "NCT need rest"by thinking"NCT need to promote capacity", considering the elderly as a resource with important contributions to the country's socio-economic development in the context of population aging that is taking place strongly as it is today.
Research and develop policies to meet the employment needs of the elderly based on amending and supplementing the Law on Employment, the Law on the Elderly and related laws for the elderly who are still able to work, especially for the 60-70 age group, to resolve the imbalance between labor supply and demand, minimizing the gap and conflicts between generations.
Research and develop policies to support consulting, training, and create conditions for elderly workers to have the opportunity to change careers suitable for their age. Develop economic activities suitable for the elderly, especially household-level business and service activities suitable for female elderly.
It is necessary to develop and perfect the labor market development strategy for the elderly to attract this social labor force to work without reducing the job positions for young people, at the same time it is necessary to continue to establish and perfect the mechanism to promote the development of the formal labor market to gradually attract the elderly labor force from the informal sector. As well as continue to study and synchronously implement policies to promote economic development with social policies for the elderly to ensure employment and improve income for this population group.
It is necessary to flexibly implement many forms of exercise, encourage the elderly to continue working when their health still allows, and promote and explain to help the elderly understand that this gives them the opportunity to continue to communicate with society, continue to feel the meaning of life, make reasonable use of life, avoid dependence and create a burden for their children/grandchildren, and at the same time eliminate the risk of facing a lonely life and depression in old age.
The study aims to universalize social allowances/social pensions for the elderly to ensure that every person aged 60 and over enjoys at least one type of allowance, while also studying the effective implementation of social policies for the elderly in special circumstances to reduce the pressure of job search from work motivation due to economic difficulties.
Continue to implement measures to commend typical elderly people in maintaining a cultural family life, elderly people who have made positive contributions to the development of the movement of polite and proper behavior in the family, at the same time creating opportunities and encouraging elderly people to fully participate in community and social activities to expand the social relationships of the elderly, promote and make good use of life capital, experience as well as noble values in the elderly. Strengthen the operational capacity of the system of organizations of the Elderly Association from the central, provincial, district, commune and village levels that have been formed in mobilizing the participation of the elderly in community activities.
It is necessary to continue to support, facilitate and strengthen the role of political and social organizations for the elderly in order to promote the advantages of these organizations in attracting the elderly to participate in activities to protect personal rights and interests, community assistance activities, local cultural, social and spiritual activities. At the same time, it is necessary to carry out propaganda activities more frequently, mobilizing the elderly to participate in social organizations in order to promote the advantages of this population group in developing cultural, social and spiritual life in a positive direction, as well as continue to focus on implementing measures to commend districts, communes and wards that do a good job in social work with the elderly.
For the government of Nam Tu Liem district, Hanoi city
Continue to implement measures to support local economic development, attract and encourage the establishment of new production and business establishments, prioritize support for households to expand economic activities to create suitable jobs for the elderly. Fully implement measures to support production and business development, support production means, technology transfer, product consumption, and loans for production development for the elderly according to policies and laws.
Seriously and periodically carry out propaganda work on the viewpoints, guidelines and policies of the Party and State related to the elderly to raise awareness and responsibility of society and households in caring for and promoting the capacity of the elderly, at the same time continue to implement propaganda measures, set examples of exemplary elderly people in labor, production and participation in social activities, thereby raising the level of respect that society has for them.
Create conditions for the elderly to continue to contribute, impart knowledge of culture, society, science and technology, and professional skills to the younger generation, encourage and motivate them to take on exemplary leading roles and become the core of local social movements. Organize activities to receive opinions, aspirations, and recommendations of the elderly with public agencies and organizations, encourage and support them to participate in implementing community development initiatives.
It is necessary to continue researching and building a lifestyle and cultural behavioral environment suitable for the elderly in the family, in public places and regularly organizing cultural, social, spiritual activities, physical activities - sports, entertainment and recreation suitable for the elderly, as well as supporting the elderly to actively participate in cultural and sports activities to improve mental health, while supporting and strengthening the connection between the elderly and the community and society.
For households in Nam Tu Liem district, Hanoi city
It is necessary to continue to support the need for the elderly to participate in the labor market, considering it one of the solid foundations to help them have an active, sociable, and healthy life in old age.
Encourage the elderly to visit close friends, relatives, neighbors, and actively participate in social activities to maintain a happy and healthy spiritual life.
It is necessary to respect the way of thinking, working, lifestyle and living habits of the elderly by putting yourself in their position to consider, think and act.
For NCT in Nam Tu Liem district, Hanoi city
Continue to participate in TTLĐ while still capable of working to continue contributing to social development, while at the same time conveying and enhancing the spirit of enthusiasm for work to the next generations.
Actively participate in maintaining a cultural family lifestyle, in social activities, as well as in creating and promoting a useful, joyful, friendly and harmonious atmosphere with other family members and in the community./.
REFERENCES
Author:ussh
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