Social Engagement: Key to Sustainable Livelihood and Socio-Economic Well-Being in Later Life

Gift Omobolanle Amaike, University of Lagos

Social engagement promotes successful ageing, sustainable livelihood and socio-economic wellbeing. Individuals who remain socially engaged make active contributions which helps in coping with role transition and ageing challenges. This study examined the impact of social engagement on sustainable livelihood and well-being in later life. Social engagement involved elders’ level of involvement such as engagement in religious activities or social events or volunteering in the last one month while reported health status and living arrangement were used as indicators of well-being. The life course perspective and activity theory were adopted as theoretical framework while Nigerians aged 55 years and above in Lagos state were sampled using multi-stage research method. Livelihood is considered adequate and sustainable when it bounces back after major shocks. Social engagement was associated with increased access to sustainable livelihood, improved living standards and better wellbeing. Older Nigerians should be supported to remain socially engaged and make tangible contributions.