A REPORT ON

SITUATION OF SENIOR CITIZENS AT BIMESHWOR

MUNICIPALITY OF DOLAKHA DISTRIC

Submitted To

DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WORK

Shahid Smarak College

Kirtipur Kathmandu

(For partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of Bachelor in social
work awarded by Tribhuvan university)

Submitted by

Ashmita Shahi

ID No: 3205

TU Reg. No: 6-2-262-32-2021

May 11, 2023

i
 DECLERATION

I hereby declare that the work presented in this dissertation is a genuine work done originally
by me and has not submitted anywhere for the award of any degree. All the sources of
information have been specifically acknowledged by reference to the author(s) or institution(s).

…………………………

Ashmita shahi

Date: 28-01-2080

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 SHAHID SMARAK COLLEGE Kirtipur
Department of social work Kathmandu, Nepal
Date May 11, 2023

RECOMMENDATION

This is to certify that mis Ashmita shahi has completed this dissertation work entitled ‘‘senior
citizens” as a partial fulfillment of the requirements of my/our knowledge, this research has not
been submitted for any other degree, anywhere else.

I/We therefore, recommend the dissertation for acceptance and approval.

………………………

Ms. Sujata Maharjhan

Nayabazar, Kirtipur

(Project Supervisior)

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 SHAHID SMARAK COLLEGE Kirtipur
Department of social work Kathmandu, Nepal
Date May 11, 2023

LETTER OF APPROVAL

On the recommendation of supervisor ‘‘Ms. Sujata Maharjan” this dissertation submitted by

Ms. “Ashmita Shahi, BSW 1st year’’. During our supervising, we found that the corresponding
report has been prepared as approved by this department in prescribed format of Bachelor of
Social Work (BSW), faculty of Humanities. This report is forwarded for the further
examination.

………………… ………………….

Mr. Tika Thakuri External examiner

Head of Department

Shahid Smarak College

NayaBazar,Kirtipur

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my special thanks of gratitude to my teacher Mr. Mahan Uchai and Mrs.
Sujata Maharjan who gave me the golden opportunity to do this wonderful project of ‘situation
of senior citizens at dolakha district, bimeshwor municipality’, who also help me in completing
my project. I came to know about so many new things I am really thankful to them. Secondly,
I would like to thank my co- partner who help me a lot. However, it would not have been
possible without the kind support of many individuals. I would like to extend my sincere thanks
to all of them.

…………………........

Ms. Ashmita Shahi

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLERATION .......................................................................................................................ii

RECOMMENDATION ........................................................................................................... iii

LETTER OF APPROVAL ....................................................................................................... iv

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ......................................................................................................... v

LIST OF FIGURES .................................................................................................................. ix

LIST OF TABLES.................................................................................................................... ix

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................. 1

1.1 Background ...................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Significance of the study .................................................................................................. 4

1.3 Objectives of the study..................................................................................................... 4

1.4 Limitation of the study ..................................................................................................... 5

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................... 7

2.1 Senior citizens in the world.............................................................................................. 7

2.1.1 Healthcare ......................................................................................................................... 7

2.1.2 Financial Security ............................................................................................................. 7

2.1.3 Social Isolation: ................................................................................................................ 7

2.1.4 Elder Abuse ....................................................................................................................... 8

2.1.5 Housing ............................................................................................................................. 8

2.2 Some famous writers and their opinion on seniors citizens ............................................. 8

“The Aged and High Culture” by Simone de Beauvoir (France) .............................................. 8

"Aging and its Challenges" by Atul Gawande (United States).................................................. 8

"The Challenges of Aging in Japan" by Mari Matsuda (Japan) ................................................ 9

2.3 Senior citizens in Nepal ................................................................................................... 9

CHAPTER 3: MATERIALS AND METHODS ..................................................................... 12

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 3.1 Study area....................................................................................................................... 12

3.2 Research Design............................................................................................................. 14

3.3 Universe and Sample ..................................................................................................... 14

3.4 Nature of Data ................................................................................................................ 14

3.4.1 Primary data .................................................................................................................... 14

3.4.2 Secondary data ................................................................................................................ 14

3.5 Tools and Technology of Data collection ...................................................................... 14

3.6 Rational of the sampling ................................................................................................ 14

3.6 Ethical consideration...................................................................................................... 15

3.7 Timeline of the research................................................................................................. 15

CHAPTER 4: FINDING AND ANALYSIS ........................................................................... 16

4.1 Our finding on senior citizens ........................................................................................ 16

4.1.1 According to municipality .............................................................................................. 16

4.1.2 According to om santi organization ................................................................................ 17

4.2 Cases .............................................................................................................................. 18

Case 1(Kaplana Bidari) ............................................................................................................ 18

Case 2(Kamal Bahadhur Rimal) .............................................................................................. 18

Case 3(Ramesh chapagain) ...................................................................................................... 18

Case 4( Sarita Khadka) ............................................................................................................ 18

Case 5(Hari Sherestha) ............................................................................................................ 19

Case 6(maiya magar) ............................................................................................................... 19

Case 7(Ram Basnet) ................................................................................................................. 19

Case 8( Sita Sarki) ................................................................................................................... 19

Case 9(Mohan Tamang) ........................................................................................................... 20

Case 10(Sirjana Khadka) ......................................................................................................... 20

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION ............................................... 22

5.1 Conclusion ..................................................................................................................... 22

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 5.2 Recommendations .......................................................................................................... 22

CHAPTER 6: SOCIAL WORK INTERVENTION ................................................................ 24

6.1 Micro level social work intervention ............................................................................. 24

6.2 Mezzo level social work intervention ............................................................................ 24

6.3 Macro level social work intervention ............................................................................ 24

REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................ 26

QUESTIONNAIRE ................................................................................................................. 27

APPENDIX I: DATA .............................................................................................................. 28

APPENDIX II: PHOTOS ........................................................................................................ 29

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Study area map ......................................................................................................... 13

Figure 2: Senior citizen in Bhimeshwor Municipality ............................................................. 16
Figure 3: Jestha Nagarik Bhawan build by Bhimeshwor Municipality ................................... 29
Figure 4: Focal GroupDiscussion eith Boch Sanskritik Bhajan Mandali ................................ 29
Figure 5: Interviewing with Head of OM Shanti Organization ............................................... 30
Figure 6: Interviewing with senior Citizen .............................................................................. 30

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Data of Senior Citizens .............................................................................................. 28

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 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
As societies around the world are experiencing an increase in life expectancy, the
number of senior citizens is also rising. Senior citizens refer to individuals who are generally
over the age of 60 or 65, depending on the country or region. This demographic group is diverse
and includes individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and socio-economic statuses. As
people age, they may face various physical and mental changes that can affect their quality of
life. These changes may include declining mobility, reduced cognitive function, and increased
risk of chronic diseases. However, with proper care and support, many seniors can maintain
their independence and lead fulfilling lives. Senior citizens have valuable life experiences and
knowledge, and they have made significant contributions to society. They may continue to
contribute to their communities through volunteering, mentoring, or participating in other
activities. However, they may also face social isolation and financial challenges, among other
issues. Therefore, it's important to recognize the valuable contributions that seniors have made
to society and to treat them with respect and dignity. Providing access to healthcare, social
activities, and resources such as transportation and housing can help seniors maintain their
independence and improve their quality of life.

According to current projections, there will be a significant increase in the number of

people aged 60 years and older in the coming decades. In 2020, the world's population of older
adults was around 1 billion, but it is expected to increase to 1.4 billion by the end of 2030.
Moreover, by 2050, the number of people aged 60 years and older is predicted to double and
reach 2.1 billion, indicating a sharp rise in the aging population worldwide. Furthermore, the
number of individuals aged 80 years and older is expected to triple between 2020 and 2050.
This means that the number of people in this age group is projected to increase from 143 million
in 2020 to 426 million in 2050. This trend suggests that societies worldwide will need to adapt
to an aging population and address the unique health and social needs of older adults. It also
highlights the importance of developing strategies to promote healthy aging, including
preventative health measures, to help maintain the quality of life for older individuals

The sociocultural changes associated with globalization and development have

weakened the traditional values and family support systems for senior citizens (age 60 years
and above). There is an increase in the prevalence of elder abuse and difficulties in getting
appropriate care and support.

1
 This has mandated legal measures to protect the rights of the senior citizens and provide
them care and support by the family and other stakeholders. Consequent to being the signatory
for the “Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, 2002,” several countries, including
India, have introduced legislation for the social protection of senior citizens. “The Maintenance
and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (MWP) Act, 2007” is an important legislation in
India to safeguard the elderly from exploitation and abuse. 1

Ageing population is no longer out of the ordinary as all countries face this issue. Japan,
one of the developed economies, currently well known for its ageing society. The proportion
of senior citizen (above 64 years old) is approximately a quarter of its total population, 127
million (Reynolds, 2017). When Japan first got hit by this socio-economic problem, other
countries were still ‘young’ and hence, less attention were given to these issues. As other
countries began to realize how severe was the impact of ageing on Japan’s economy growth,
economists start forecasting the trends of ageing for their own country, comparing the trends
with another economy; particularly Japan, and designing suitable macroeconomic policies in
preparing their economy to the world of ageing. The main aim for such efforts was to reduce
the shock on economy’s performance due to ageing process. In the past, ageing issue was
common in industrialized economy, not for developing economies. Judging from the current
trends on the shifting on demographic structure in developing countries such as Malaysia,
Singapore and South Korea, this is not the case anymore. Japan is one of the pioneer countries
and the first Asian country that faced severe ageing population, have at least overcome the
critical stage through various yet careful approach in solving ageing problems.

Population ageing is the dynamic process of demographic and socioeconomic

transformation which reflects the increase in the share of the elderly on the total population. It
is considered as the natural process. There may be the three major causes for the population
ageing, first is the increasing the life expectancy, second is the decreasing fertility and third
one is migration. Both the developed and developing countries of the world are experiencing
the population ageing and there is a growing concern about the population ageing in the world.
In all countries worldwide, poverty is the single greatest obstacle to a secure old age. In less
developed countries, the problems associated with old age are poor diet, ill-health and
inadequate housing, which are all exacerbated by poverty. Furthermore, due to changes in
lifestyles in the developing world, chronic illness is becoming endemic among many older
people, because technical advances in medicine have far outrun social and economic

2
development that allows for relatively disease-free living in developed countries. Whether a
population is young or old, or getting older or getting younger, it depends on the relative size
of people at different age groups. In general, a population with more than 35 percent under age
of 15 years is considered young and population with more than 10 percent aged 65 years and
above is considered as old.

In Nepal the people above 60 years are considered as elderly. The population of Nepal
is considered young as 39 percent of its total population is less than 15 years of age while 6.5
percent people are above 60 years of age and only 4.20 percent are above 65 years of age. But
the proportion of the elderly is continuously increasing. According to the census of 2001, 6.5
percent among the total population was covered by the people above the age of 60 years that
was only 2.43 percent in 1911.The elderly population in Nepal is growing steadily at the rate
of 3.39% per year. And it is projected that the proportion of the elderly population will be
doubled in 2017 on the basis of that we can say that Nepal is already in the process of population
ageing with the demographic transition period. As the relative size of the population of elderly
is continuously increasing the elderly dependency rate computed for different time periods
shows increasing trend from 7.5% in 1911 to 12.01% in 2001. Considering the time span of 90
years; the rate is very slow with the Of only 0.05% increase per year but the proportion of
elderly is already at the high magnitude.2

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1.2 Objectives of the study
The major objectives are as follows:

• To find out the lifestyle and local level government policy towards senior citizen in

Charikot.

• To explore the senior citizen’s health condition of Charikot

1.3 Significance of the study

Studying the situation of senior citizens is of great significance in our society for various
reasons. Firstly, the elderly population is rapidly increasing, and it is important to understand
their needs, challenges, and issues they face in their daily lives. By studying the situation of
senior citizens, we can gain a better understanding of their health, economic, social, and
psychological status. This knowledge can help us develop effective policies and programs that
cater to the needs of the elderly population. Secondly, studying the situation of senior citizens
can also help us address the issue of ageism, which is a form of discrimination that affects the
elderly. Ageism can have a negative impact on the mental and physical health of seniors, as
well as their social and economic well-being. By understanding the challenges that senior’s
face and promoting awareness about their needs, we can work towards eliminating ageism and
creating a more inclusive society. Thirdly, studying the situation of senior citizens can also help
us to identify potential gaps in existing services and programs that are meant to support the
elderly population. For example, we can identify areas where there is a lack of affordable
housing, healthcare services, or social support systems, and work towards filling these gaps.
Overall, studying the situation of senior citizens is critical for promoting their well-being and
improving their quality of life. It can help us to develop better policies and programs, address
ageism, and identify gaps in services and support systems. By doing so, we can create a society
that values and respects its elderly population and promotes their health, happiness, and dignity.

Understanding the circumstances of senior citizens in Nepal is of great importance as

their population is growing rapidly, and they encounter numerous issues that require attention.
According to the National Population and Housing Census 2011, senior citizens (aged 60 and
above) accounted for 8.1% of the total population in Nepal, and this number is expected to rise

4
to 19.3% by 2050. This demographic change will have significant implications for social,
economic, and health policies in Nepal.

One of the most significant challenges faced by senior citizens in Nepal is poverty. As
per the Nepal Living Standards Survey 2011, around 38% of elderly households in Nepal live
in poverty, which means they have limited access to essential needs such as healthcare, food,
and other basic necessities. Additionally, many seniors in Nepal are prone to social isolation,
neglect, and abuse, which can have detrimental effects on their mental and physical health.

Another problem encountered by senior citizens in Nepal is the absence of social

protection systems. According to the International Labor Organization, only 5% of senior
citizens in Nepal receive a pension, and there is no universal social security system for the
elderly. This lack of social protection can lead to poverty, vulnerability, and exclusion among
the elderly population. Studying the situation of senior citizens in Nepal can assist
policymakers in developing effective policies and programs that address these challenges. For
example, the Senior Citizens Act was recently launched by the Nepalese government in 2021,
which aims to safeguard the rights and welfare of senior citizens and provide them with social
protection, healthcare, and other essential needs. However, further research and analysis are
still necessary to ensure that these policies are effective and that they cater to the needs of the
elderly population in Nepal.

In conclusion, studying the circumstances of senior citizens in Nepal is crucial for

tackling the issues they encounter and ensuring that they have access to essential needs, social
protection, and healthcare. As Nepal's population ages, it is necessary to prioritize policies and
programs that address the needs of senior citizens and promote their well-being.

1.4 Limitation of the study

During my research on senior citizens in Charikot Bimeshwor Municipality of Dolakha
district on March 3, 2023, my team and I visited four different wards and conducted interviews
with 7 to 10 individuals. While we used the questioning or interviewing method to collect data,
we faced certain limitations due to the use of local language for our interviews. Firstly, while
the use of local language helped us to connect better with the senior citizens and made them
feel more comfortable, it also limited our ability to reach out to a wider group of people who
may not have been fluent in that particular language. This may have caused us to miss out on

5
valuable insights and perspectives from a more diverse group of seniors. Additionally, language
barriers may have caused misunderstandings and misinterpretations of certain questions or
responses, leading to inaccurate data collection. This could have affected the validity and
reliability of our research findings. Furthermore, our study was limited to only four wards in
the municipality, which may not have been representative of the entire population of senior
citizens in the area. Thus, our research findings may not be generalizable to the larger
population. Overall, while our research on senior citizens in Charikot Bimeshwor Municipality
was valuable, the use of a single local language and the limited scope of our study were
significant limitations that may have impacted the quality of our findings.

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 CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Senior citizens in the world

As the world's population continues to age, the condition and situation of senior citizens
is becoming an increasingly important topic of discussion. While seniors may experience
different challenges depending on their location, culture, and socioeconomic status, there are
several common issues that impact seniors worldwide. In this essay, I will discuss some of the
major challenges facing senior citizens across the globe.

2.1.1 Healthcare
One of the most significant challenges facing seniors worldwide is access to healthcare.
As people age, they tend to develop more health problems, and many seniors require regular
medical care and prescription medications. However, in many parts of the world, seniors face
barriers to accessing quality healthcare. Some countries lack adequate healthcare infrastructure
or face shortages of medical professionals, while in other countries, the cost of medical care
may be prohibitive for seniors on fixed incomes. Additionally, seniors with chronic health
conditions may face discrimination or stigma, making it more difficult for them to receive
appropriate care.

2.1.2 Financial Security

Another major issue facing senior citizens globally is financial security. Many seniors
live on fixed incomes, such as pensions or social security benefits, which may not keep pace
with inflation or rising costs of living. Seniors may also face age discrimination in the
workplace, making it difficult to earn a living or save for retirement. Additionally, seniors may
experience financial abuse or exploitation, either from family members or scammers who prey
on vulnerable older adults.

2.1.3 Social Isolation:

Loneliness and social isolation are significant issues facing seniors worldwide. As
people age, they may lose friends or family members, and may face barriers to participating in
social activities or events. In some cultures, older adults may be viewed as less valuable or less
interesting than younger individuals, further contributing to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Social isolation can have serious health consequences for seniors, including depression,
anxiety, and increased risk of cognitive decline.

7
2.1.4 Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is a widespread issue affecting seniors around the world. This can take
many forms, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.
Seniors who live alone or have limited social support networks may be particularly vulnerable
to abuse, as they may not have anyone to turn to for help or support. Additionally, many cases
of elder abuse go unreported, making it difficult to track and address the problem.

2.1.5 Housing
Access to safe and affordable housing is a significant concern for seniors worldwide.
Many seniors face housing insecurity, either due to rising costs of living or lack of suitable
housing options. Additionally, seniors with disabilities or mobility issues may require
modifications to their homes or living spaces, which can be difficult or expensive to obtain.

In conclusion, seniors face a range of challenges across the globe, including access to
healthcare, financial security, social isolation, elder abuse, and housing insecurity. These issues
are complex and multifaceted, and require coordinated efforts from governments, healthcare
providers, and community organizations to address. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution
to these challenges, raising awareness about the issues facing seniors and working to promote
policies and programs that support older adults can help to improve the condition and situation
of seniors worldwide.3

2.2 Some famous writers and their opinion on seniors citizens

“The Aged and High Culture” by Simone de Beauvoir (France)
Simone de Beauvoir, the famous French writer and philosopher, wrote extensively
about the condition of senior citizens. In her article "The Aged and High Culture," she argues
that society must recognize the contributions of older adults to culture and intellectual life. De
Beauvoir also discusses the challenges faced by seniors, including discrimination, loneliness,
and loss of autonomy. She emphasizes the importance of empowering seniors and creating
social structures that value their contributions. (De Beauvoir, S. (1972). The Aged and High
Culture. Social Research, 39(1), 44-58.)

"Aging and its Challenges" by Atul Gawande (United States)

Atul Gawande, an American surgeon and writer, has written extensively about aging
and healthcare. In his article "Aging and its Challenges," Gawande explores the challenges

8
facing seniors as they age, including access to healthcare, social isolation, and the need for
long-term care. He argues that society must rethink how we care for seniors and develop new
models of care that are more focused on quality of life and autonomy. (Gawande, A. (2015).
Aging and its Challenges. New England Journal of Medicine, 372(5), 447-455.)

"The Challenges of Aging in Japan" by Mari Matsuda (Japan)

Mari Matsuda, a Japanese American legal scholar, has written about the challenges
facing seniors in Japan. In her article "The Challenges of Aging in Japan," Matsuda discusses
the impact of Japan's aging population on healthcare, social security, and the economy. She
argues that Japan must develop new policies and programs to support seniors and ensure their
health and well-being. Matsuda also highlights the need for a cultural shift that values the
contributions of older adults and promotes intergenerational solidarity. (Matsuda, M. (2013).
The Challenges of Aging in Japan. Journal of Aging and Social Policy, 25(2), 87-100.)

2.3 Senior citizens in Nepal

In Nepal, senior citizens face a number of challenges related to health, social welfare,
and economic security. Nepal is a country with a rapidly aging population, and it is estimated
that by 2031, nearly 10% of the country's population will be over the age of 60. Despite this,
Nepal lacks comprehensive policies and programs that address the specific needs of seniors.
One of the major challenges facing senior citizens in Nepal is access to healthcare. Many older
adults in Nepal live in rural areas with limited access to medical facilities and face difficulties
in affording necessary treatments. Furthermore, there is a shortage of geriatric specialists and
trained healthcare professionals to meet the needs of the aging population.

Another challenge is the lack of social security measures for seniors. Many older adults
in Nepal are economically disadvantaged and do not have access to retirement benefits or social
welfare programs. This leaves them vulnerable to poverty and social exclusion. Additionally,
there is a lack of awareness and recognition of the contributions of seniors in Nepali society.
Many older adults are marginalized and discriminated against, with limited opportunities for
participation in community life and decision-making processes. In recent years, the government
of Nepal has taken some steps to address the challenges faced by senior citizens. In 2013, the
government launched the National Senior Citizens' Fund to provide financial support to low-
income seniors. In 2016, a national policy on aging was adopted, which outlines strategies to
promote the health, well-being, and rights of older adults. Despite these efforts, much more

9
needs to be done to address the needs of senior citizens in Nepal. The government must
continue to invest in healthcare, social welfare, and economic security measures to ensure that
seniors can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to society. Additionally, there is a need for
greater awareness and advocacy to promote the rights and dignity of older adults in Nepali
society.2

Population statistics shows that the number of senior citizen has been increasing in
Nepal because of increment in the average life expectancy at birth. In Nepal, the population
above sixty years of age comprised 5.8% of total population [3]. To address the right and
authority of senior citizens in Nepal, Senior Citizens Act was organized in 2006. This act aimed
to make provisions immediately on the protection and social security of senior citizens and
enhancement of trust, respect and good faith towards them by utilizing knowledge, skills,
capability and experiences inherent in them. This act declared that senior citizen means a citizen
of Nepal having completed the age of sixty years [4]. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an
infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. People in-feted with the COVID-
19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring
special treatment. Older people are more likely to develop serious illness due to this disease
[5]. Due to corona virus older people are being challenged by requirements to spend more time
at home, lack of physical contact with other family members, friends and colleagues and other
activities; and anxiety and fear of illness and death their own and others. World Health
Organization (WHO) together with partners is providing guidance and advice during the
COVID-19 pandemic for older people and their households, health and social care workers and
local authorities and community group. Among adults, the risk for severe illness from COVID-
19 increases with age, with older adults at highest risk. Severe illness means that the person
with COVID-19 may require hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help them
breathe, or they may even die. The senior citizen living in urban areas seem to be more
privileged compared to rural elderly and but at the same time their condition is really worse in
urban areas as well. The biggest issue of senior citizens in urban areas is abandonment from
their children [6, 7]. The biggest issue is that the urban elderly live their life in loneliness. In
urban areas, much family structure is nuclear family. Due to this urban, senior citizens are
facing psychological and mental problem such as depression, trauma, and stress. Similarly they
do not have much company of people if they want to visit outside or roam around or talk to
neighboring people because many people in urban areas are very sophisticated and they just
keep to themselves. This study intended to accomplish to explore the condition of mental and

10
psychological problems of senior citizen in Kirtipur municipality and to find out the physical
health problems of senior citizens. This study seeks to explore the adverse effects of COVID-
19 on the mental and physical health of senior citizen (60 years above) in Kirtipur municipality.
This study helps to plan and formulate local rules and regulations to mi- nimize the effects of
corona virus on senior citizen.4

11
 CHAPTER 3: MATERIALS AND METHODS
3.1 Study area
Dolakha is a district located in the Bagmati Province of Nepal, with its headquarters in
Charikot. It covers an area of 2,191 km2 and had a population of 186,557 in 2011. The district
is known for its religious affiliation and is home to the famous Dolakha Bhimeshawor temple.
The name Dolakha is derived from the classical Nepal Bhasa language, where "Dol" or "Dwal"
means Thousand, and "Kha" means houses, indicating that the place has a thousand houses.
Dolakha is also regarded as the home of ancient civilization, and it is the original place of the
Newar community, culture, and language. Additionally, the town is rich in cultural heritage,
with over a dozen temples and stupas, including the temples of Bhimeshwor, Tripura Sundari,
and Kali, with various cultural festivals

Dolakha, located 132 km east of Kathmandu, is a town with rich historical, cultural,
religious, and natural beauty. It is situated northeast of Charikot, the headquarters of Dolakha
District in the Janakpur Zone of northeastern Nepal. The town is renowned for its more than a
dozen temples and stupas, including the Bhimeshwor, Tripura Sundari, and Kali temples, which
host various cultural festivals.

Dolakha is regarded as the home of ancient civilization, and its ruler Indrasingh Dev
(1591 to 1605) was the first to introduce a silver coin in the history of Nepal. The town is also
known for its Newar community, culture, and language, which originated here. With its rich
cultural and historical heritage, Dolakha is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate
traditional art, architecture, and religious practices. Additionally, the town's natural beauty,
including its hills, forests, and rivers, makes it an excellent place for trekking, hiking, and other
outdoor activities.As part of our research work, we chose to focus on Bhimeshwar municipality,
which is located in the Dolakha District of Nepal. I found it interesting to learn that the
municipality was established in 1997 by merging several former village development
committees. According to the 2011 Nepal census, the municipality has a population of 32,486
people residing in 8,639 individual households. It was also fascinating to note that the town is
situated at an altitude of 1554 metres (5101 feet), offering beautiful views of the surrounding
landscapes. Additionally, I found it intriguing to learn that the name of the district Dolakha
came from the town of the same name, which is located north-east of the headquarters Charikot
Bazaar

12
Figure 1: Study area map

13
3.2 Research Design
For my field work in Dolakha district on the topic of senior citizens, I used a mixed-
method research design that involved both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods.

3.3 Universe and Sample

Our research universe was the senior citizens residing in the Bimeshwor municipality
of Dolakha district. Our sample size was 10 individuals, selected using a purposive sampling
technique. We visited 4 out of the 9 wards of the municipality and conducted face-to-face
interviews with the selected individuals, using a questionnaire as our data collection tool. The
interviews took approximately 10 hours in total, and we also utilized secondary data sources
such as government reports, research articles, and other publications related to the topic.

3.4 Nature of Data

The nature of data we collected was both primary and secondary. The primary data was
collected through interviews with senior citizens, while secondary data was gathered from
various published sources.

3.4.1 Primary data

The door-to-door survey was done and the interview was taken with questionnaire. The
life style and the condition of senior citizens were studied with primary method.

3.4.2 Secondary data

Secondary data were taken through articles, journals, books, newspaper and many
more.

3.5 Tools and Technology of Data collection

For data collection, we used basic tools such as a questionnaire and a voice recorder,
along with technology such as smartphones and laptops. We conducted the interviews in the
local language to facilitate communication and to obtain more accurate responses.

3.6 Rational of the sampling

We used purposive sampling to select our sample as we wanted to ensure that we
selected individuals who were senior citizens and could provide us with reliable information.
We also aimed to select individuals from different socio-economic backgrounds to get a diverse
perspective on the situation of senior citizens.

14
3.6 Ethical consideration
We selected our sample based on certain criteria such as age, gender, income, and living
arrangements. We made sure to take ethical considerations into account, we assured them of
confidentiality and anonymity, and we made sure that the data we collected would be used only
for research purposes.

3.7 Timeline of the research

Our research timeline was 3 days, including travel time from Kathmandu to Dolakha
and back. We spent the first day meeting with local stakeholders and authorities to get an
understanding of the local context. On the second day, we conducted interviews and collected
primary data. On the third day, we analyzed the data and prepared our findings and
recommendations.

15
 CHAPTER 4: FINDING AND ANALYSIS
4.1 Our finding on senior citizens

Senior citizen in Bhimeshwor Municipality

500
387
Number of senior citizen

400 337 359

320 294
300 272

200 171 147

118
100
0
Ward Ward Ward Ward Ward Ward Ward Ward Ward
No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4 No. 5 No. 6 No. 7 No. 8 No. 9
Wards

Source: Bhimeswhor Municipality 2079.

Figure 2: Senior citizen in Bhimeshwor Municipality
The bar graph provides information on the number of senior citizens in each ward of
the Bimeshwor municipality in Dolakha district. The data was collected from the municipality
office and it shows that there are a total of 2,305 senior citizens in the municipality. Among
these senior citizens, Ward No. 2 has the highest number of 387, followed by Ward No. 5 with
359, and Ward No. 7 with 320. On the other hand, Ward No. 3 has the lowest number of senior
citizens with only 118, followed by Ward No. 6 with 147 and Ward No. 4 with 171.

During the field research, we visited 4 out of the 9 wards in the municipality and
collected data on senior citizens through interviews and questionnaires. Although we did not
collect data from all the wards, the information provided by the municipality office gives us an
overall idea of the distribution of senior citizens in the municipality.

4.1.1 According to municipality

During our field research in Bimeshwor municipality, we had the opportunity to speak
with the Senior Citizen Department Officer. She informed us that the municipality provides
social security allowance to people above the age of 70. The allowance is 4000 rupees per
person and an extra 1000 rupees is provided to those above 75 years of age. This allowance is
provided four times a year with a gap of three months and is directly transferred to the bank

16
accounts of the recipients. The Senior Citizen Department Officer further informed us that the
municipality separates a huge budget every year for the welfare of senior citizens. They have
already built an old age home in Ward No. 5 and organize many programs related to senior
citizens, such as pilgrim tours, fairs, and other events. Additionally, they provide free health
services to senior citizens.

We were impressed with the initiatives taken by Bimeshwor municipality for the
welfare of senior citizens. It is encouraging to see that the municipality is dedicated to ensuring
that senior citizens in their jurisdiction have access to basic facilities and support.

4.1.2 According to OM SANTI organization

During our field research in Bimeshwor Municipality, we visited the Om Santi
organization, where we had the opportunity to speak with its head, Ms. Parvati Verma. She
shared with us some interesting information about the organization and its followers.
According to her, out of the total followers, around 80% were senior citizens. She also
explained the reasons why most senior citizens prefer to join the organization.

Ms. Verma emphasized that the primary reason why many seniors join Om Santi is to
find peace in their lives. She mentioned that most of the elderly people who don't receive love,
care, and support from their family, including their sons and daughters, seek solace in the
organization. They believe that God will provide them with love, care, and support, which
makes them happy, peaceful, and satisfied.

This information from Ms. Verma was an eye-opener for us, and we realized that senior
citizens' desires are straightforward. They want love, care, and support, and if they don't receive
them from their families, they believe in God. Therefore, we believe that the government
should focus more on providing suitable places and situations for senior citizens' worshiping,
where they can find the peace, love, and care they need.

17
4.2 Cases
Case 1(Kaplana Bidari)
Kalpana Bhadri, a 70-year-old lady living in Dolakha district with her sons and
daughters-in-law, shared her experience with us during our field work on senior citizens. She
expressed her disappointment about the way society treats senior citizens differently. She
explained how people often look down on senior citizens and treat them with less respect and
care. She also mentioned that she receives a monthly social security allowance of 4000 rupees,
but she believes it's not enough to cover her medical expenses. Kalpana shared her desire to
travel and requested the government to conduct pilgrim tours for senior citizens like her. She
also requested an increase in the social security allowance to make it easier for senior citizens
to afford their daily needs and medical expenses.

Case 2(Kamal Bahadhur Rimal)

We met Kamal Bahadhur Rimal, an 83-year-old man from Bimeshwor Municipality
ward no. 5. He was living with his wife, as his children were studying in Kathmandu and living
there. He mentioned that he was content with his children and their support. Kamal Bahadhur
Rimal received his social security allowance directly in his bank account, and he expressed his
satisfaction with the local government's services towards senior citizens. He also mentioned
that a pilgrim tour organized by the government would be helpful for them, which would give
them peace

Case 3(Ramesh chapagain)

I came across Ramesh Chapagain who lives alone in Dolakha District, Charikot Ward
No. 3. He was not satisfied with the government's service towards senior citizens and was vocal
about his complaints towards politicians. He expressed that he did not receive any special
treatment as a senior citizen and requested the government to increase the allowance he
received every month. Ramesh also suggested that the government should provide free health
services and construct more old age homes for those who live alone and require care.

Case 4( Sarita Khadka)

Sarita Khadka, a 75-year-old resident of Pipalbot Ward No. 5 of Bimeshwor
Municipality,. She lives with her family and expressed her full satisfaction with them. She
recently joined the Om Santi organization and believes that their satisfaction towards everyone

18
comes from believing in God. She stated that she does not have any desires or complaints
towards anyone and is thankful for everything towards God.

Case 5(Hari Sherestha)

Hari Sherestha, a 70-year-old local of Charikot Ward No. 3, lives with his family and
shared that his relationship with his family is very good. He expressed that his son loves and
cares for him. He used to be a shopkeeper and believes that his work helps him to live a peaceful
life. He receives his allowance on time and is satisfied with the services provided by the
municipality to senior citizens.

Case 6(maiya magar)

Maiya Magar, an 86-year-old woman from Lapegaun in Dolakha district, lives with her
daughter who loves and cares for her. She expressed her satisfaction with receiving her
allowance on time, which is directly deposited into her bank account. However, she also hopes
that the government can provide a pilgrim tour for senior citizens. When she visits nearby
places, she feels respected by the people. Maiya Magar also believes in God and worshipping
God helps her find peace.

Case 7(Ram Basnet)

Ram Basnet, who is 89 years old and lives in Swara Ward no. 4 of Dolakha District. At
first, he mentioned that he had a good relationship with his family, but suddenly he became
emotional and started crying when we asked him some personal questions. We decided to stop
asking him those questions and shifted to other topics. He informed us that he received his
allowance directly through his bank account. However, he also expressed his dissatisfaction
with the government and requested that they increase the allowance as it is not enough.

Case 8( Sita Sarki)

Sita Sarki, a 94-year-old woman, is currently living with her daughter in Charikot ward
no. 3. She expressed her bad relationship with her sons who kicked her out of her own house
after her husband's death. This breakdown her emotionally. She said she receives her
allowance, but she never uses it because she is illiterate and doesn't know how to count. She
doesn't feel good with her family because they don't treat her well. She wishes to visit the
Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu and stay in an old age home there. She requested the
government to provide her with this opportunity

19
Case 9(Mohan Tamang)
Mohan Tamang who is 76 years old and living with his son's family in Charikot. I was
glad to hear that he had a very good relationship with his son, who loves and cares for him.
Mohan also expressed satisfaction with the timely and direct payment of his allowance to his
bank account. He shared that he had helped his son build a new house, and this gave him a
sense of purpose and fulfillment. However, he wished that the government would provide free
health services for seniors and build separate buildings for seniors where they can worship,
rest, and socialize

Case 10(Sirjana Khadka)

Sirjana Kadka, a 73-year-old woman from Charikot. She lives alone and has a small
business on the roadside, but she doesn't receive any allowance as she doesn't have a citizenship
card. She shared her experience of how people take advantage of her and don't return the excess
money. She said it's challenging to run a business alone and wishes that people would treat her
with respect. She complained about the government not doing enough for her and how she has
been trying to get her citizenship card, but to no avail. She also expressed her concern about
the poor health service available in her area.

4.3 Major finding

After conducting our field work in Dolakha, we have gathered valuable insights into
the situation of senior citizens in the district. Our major findings reveal a diverse range of
experiences among the senior population. While some senior citizens enjoy strong family
support and positive relationships, others face challenges and have strained relationships with
their families. It is evident that there is a need for improved family dynamics and
intergenerational understanding to ensure the well-being of senior citizens. Furthermore, we
found that the provision of social security allowances by the government, although appreciated
by many, is deemed insufficient by a significant number of senior citizens. There is a strong
consensus among them regarding the need for an increase in the allowance amount to meet
their growing healthcare and daily living expenses. Additionally, access to free healthcare
services emerged as a pressing concern, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive
healthcare provisions for the elderly population.

20
 Another important finding is the significance of spirituality and belief in God for senior
citizens. Many of the individuals we interviewed expressed that their faith provided them with
solace, peace, and a sense of purpose in life. Worshiping and connecting with a higher power
played a vital role in their well-being and helped them navigate the challenges of aging. This
finding underscores the importance of acknowledging and respecting the spiritual needs of
senior citizens in policy and support frameworks. Overall, our field work highlights the need
for a holistic approach to senior citizen welfare in Dolakha. This includes addressing family
dynamics, increasing social security allowances, improving access to healthcare services, and
recognizing the importance of spirituality in promoting the well-being of senior citizens. By
addressing these aspects, we can work towards creating an inclusive and supportive
environment for the senior population in Dolakha.

21
 CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 Conclusion
After conducting my field work and interviewing several senior citizens from different
wards of Bimeshwor municipality, Charikot and Dolakha district, I have found that the
relationship between the senior citizens and their families varies from case to case. Some are
very happy and satisfied with their families, while others have faced difficult times with their
own children. It was heartening to see that most of the senior citizens were receiving their
allowances on time and were satisfied with the services provided by the local government.
However, there were some complaints and requests, such as an increase in the amount of the
allowance, the provision of free health services, and the construction of more old age homes.

One interesting commonality among the senior citizens we interviewed was their belief
in God. Many of them expressed how their faith and worshiping God gave them peace and a
sense of purpose in life. They believed that having faith in God helped them face difficult
situations and find peace in their hearts. This highlights the importance of spirituality and
religion in the lives of senior citizens, and how it can help them cope with the challenges and
uncertainties of life.

In conclusion, our fieldwork showed that senior citizens in Bimeshwor municipality,

Charikot and Dolakha district have varying experiences and needs. While the local government
is providing some services and support, there is still room for improvement. We also found that
faith and belief in God played a significant role in the lives of these senior citizens, providing
them with comfort and peace in their later years.

5.2 Recommendations
Based on my findings during the field work with senior citizens, I would like to recommend
the following:

1. The government should increase the allowance for senior citizens, as it is not enough to
meet their basic needs.
2. The government should provide free health services for senior citizens, as they often
suffer from health issues but cannot afford medical expenses.

22
 3. The government should build more old age homes in different parts of the country,
where senior citizens who live alone and need care can reside.
4. The government should simplify the process of obtaining citizenship cards for senior
citizens who don't have them, so that they can access government services and benefits.
5. The government should organize pilgrim tours for senior citizens, as it can provide them
with a sense of peace and happiness.
6. Society should show more respect and care towards senior citizens, as they have
contributed a lot to the community and deserve to be treated with dignity and honor.
7. Senior citizens should be encouraged to stay active and engaged in their communities,
as this can help them to maintain their physical and mental health.

Overall, I believe that we need to do more to support our senior citizens and ensure that
they can live their lives with dignity and respect. As many of the senior citizens I interviewed
mentioned, their belief in God and worshiping God helps them to find peace in their lives.
Therefore, we should also encourage and facilitate their religious practices and beliefs

23
 CHAPTER 6: SOCIAL WORK INTERVENTION

6.1 Micro level social work intervention

Social work intervention can focus on individual seniors and their immediate needs.
This may involve providing counseling services, connecting them with community resources,
or facilitating access to healthcare services. For example, for seniors like Ramesh Chapagain,
who lives alone and expressed dissatisfaction with the government, social workers can connect
him with community resources such as local non-profits or other organizations that provide
care for seniors living alone. Social workers can also provide counseling services to seniors
like Ram Basnet, who became emotional while discussing his personal life.

6.2 Mezzo level social work intervention

Social work intervention can focus on family and community systems. This may
involve building stronger support networks within families and communities, increasing
community awareness and advocacy for senior citizens' rights, or organizing community
activities to promote social interaction and engagement. For example, for seniors like Maiya
Magar and Kamal Bahadhur Rimal, who expressed the desire to go on a pilgrim tour, social
workers can work with the community to organize such tours. Social workers can also advocate
for more funding to build old-age homes, provide free healthcare, and other services for senior
citizens.

6.3 Macro level social work intervention

Social work intervention can focus on policy change, advocacy, and community
development. This may involve advocating for policy changes to improve the lives of senior
citizens, raising awareness about senior citizens' issues at the national level, and advocating for
increased funding for senior citizen programs. For example, social workers can lobby the
government to increase senior citizen allowance, build more old-age homes, and provide free
healthcare services.

In conclusion, social work interventions can make a significant impact on the lives of
senior citizens. By targeting the individual, family, community, and policy levels, social
workers can provide a comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by seniors. It
is also worth noting that many of the seniors I interviewed expressed their belief in god, and
how this provided them with peace and comfort. This highlights the importance of

24
acknowledging and respecting seniors' religious and spiritual beliefs as a part of social work
intervention.

25
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Acharya P. The Situation of Population Ageing and Social Security for Elderly People in Nepal.
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De Beauvoir, S. (1972). The Aged and High Culture. Social Research, 39(1), 44-58.Gawande,
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Kasim Mansur 1 1. 2018;5(2):79-92.

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 QUESTIONNAIRE

Format of Questionnaire

Name…………………………… Age…………………….. Sex……………..

1. How many children do you have?

..............................................................................................................
2. With whom do you live?
...............................................................................................................
3. How is your relation with your Children?
...............................................................................................................
4. What do you do for living?
................................................................................................................
5. Are you getting your social security allowance?
..............................................................................................................
6. How much Allowance do you get?
..............................................................................................................
7. What kind of services do you get from your Municipality?
.............................................................................................................
8. Are you satisfied with the services provided by the Government?
...............................................................................................................
9. What kind of additional services do you want from the Government?
...............................................................................................................
10. Have you ever faced disrespect as a senior citizen in your society?
...............................................................................................................

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 APPENDIX I: DATA
Table 1: Data of Senior Citizens
SN Name age Address Child Relation Occupation Allowance
Son Daughter
1 Kalpana Bidari 70 Charikot-03 2 1 Normal Agriculture Yes
2 Kamal Bahadur 83 Bhimeshwor- 1 2 Good Agriculture Yes
Rimal 05
3 Ramesh 73 Charikot-03 - - - Agriculture Yes
Chapagain
4 Sarita Khadka 75 Pipalbot-07 1 3 V. Good Business Yes
5 Hari Shrestha 70 Chrikot-03 2 1 V. Good Business Yes
6 Maiya Magar 86 Lapegaun-03 1 1 Not Good Housewife Yes
7 Ram Basnet 89 Swara-04 2 - Normal Business Yes
8 Sita Sarki 94 Charikot-03 3 2 Not Good Nothing Yes
9 Mohan Tamang 76 Charikot-04 1 - Good Business Yes
10 Srijana KHadka 73 Charikot-04 - - - Business No

28
 APPENDIX II: PHOTOS

Figure 3: Jestha Nagarik Bhawan build by Bhimeshwor Municipality

Figure 4: Group photo with Boch Sanskritik Bhajan Mandali

29
Figure 5: Interview with Head of OM Shanti Organization

Figure 6: Interviewing with senior Citizen

30