Quality of Life of Senior Citizens in Cotabato City

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO, 2025) projects that by 2050, one in six people in the world will be aged 60 years or older. The number of persons aged 80 years or older is expected to triple between 2020 and 2050 to reach 426 million. At the national level, the Philippines has also witnessed an increase in its elderly population. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA, 2025), there are approximately 9.2 million Filipinos aged 60 and above, comprising 8.5% of the total population. In Cotabato City there are 12,949 senior citizens based on the 2024 survey of the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs. This significant demographic shift underscores the importance of developing programs and policies that promote “Healthy Ageing,” which WHO defines as maintaining functional ability that enables well-being in older age. As populations age worldwide, issues such as access to healthcare, financial stability, and social inclusion become critical measures of quality of life. Countries are now focusing on how to ensure that the elderly live not only longer but also healthier, more fulfilling lives.
WHO (2025) stated that ageing leads to a gradual decrease in physical and mental capacity. Park et al. (2024) found that decreased physical function—such as slower gait speed, weaker grip strength, and reduced endurance—along with lower cognitive and emotional functioning, significantly increases the risk of frailty among older adults. Their study emphasizes that when physical and mental health deteriorate, the quality of life of senior citizens also declines due to reduced independence and participation in community life.
To address this, the government has enacted several laws such as Republic Act No. 7432 (The Senior Citizens Act of 1992), Republic Act No. 9257 (The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003), and Republic Act No. 9994 (The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010), which collectively grant benefits such as discounts on goods and services, free medical and dental services, and social pension for indigent senior citizens. Republic Act No. 10645 further ensures mandatory PhilHealth coverage for all senior citizens. Moreover, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), together with local government units (LGUs) and non-government organizations (NGOs), spearheads the annual Elderly Filipino Week to emphasize the vital role of older persons in nation-building and to raise awareness of issues concerning their welfare. Another initiative, the Social Pension (SocPen) Program, provides monthly cash assistance to qualified indigent senior citizens across BARMM. At local level, particularly in Cotabato City, the government and local organizations have implemented several initiatives to promote the well-being of senior citizens. Under the Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA), the City Government of Cotabato facilitates the distribution of financial assistance to the Federation of Senior Citizens, providing direct support to local elderly residents.
According to Alzate (2024) challenges remain in improving the day-to-day lives of senior citizens despite these alternatives, particularly in ensuring equitable access to social services. Some seniors continue to face barriers such as unequal access to health service, limited mobility, lack of information about available benefits, and insufficient financial resources. Improving the quality of life for the elderly thus requires a holistic approach—one that integrates healthcare, financial stability, family relationships, and community participation (Lee et al., 2023).
While there are existing programs and policies for senior citizens, there is limited empirical evidence that directly assesses the actual quality of life of older persons in Cotabato City. Few studies have examined differences in quality of life between male and female senior citizens and across key socio-economic characteristics such as educational attainment and pension status, particularly at the local level. Existing research often relies on national or regional datasets, which may not adequately capture the unique social, economic, and cultural context of Cotabato City. Moreover, localized and updated data that allow for comparative analysis among senior citizens based on sex, education, and pension status remain scarce.
This lack of evidence makes it difficult to design targeted and responsive interventions. Therefore, this study is important as it provides local, data-driven insights into the quality of life of senior citizens. It offers baseline information that can be used to improve programs and services for the elderly. Moreover, this study supports the implementation and evaluation of existing laws that protect and promote the welfare of older persons, such as Republic Act No. 7432 (The Senior Citizens Act of 1992), Republic Act No. 9257 (The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003), and Republic Act No. 9994 (The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010). By generating empirical evidence at the local level, the study helps determine whether the benefits, privileges, and social support mechanisms mandated by these laws are effectively contributing to the overall well-being and quality of life of senior citizens. In this way, the findings may guide policymakers, local government units, and community stakeholders in strengthening elderly-focused programs and ensuring that statutory provisions translate into meaningful outcomes for older persons.
This study employed a descriptive-comparative research design using a quantitative approach to assess the quality of life of senior citizens in Cotabato City. Data were collected through a structured survey questionnaire administered to 200 respondents selected through purposive quota sampling. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, independent t-test, and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the data and determine differences in quality of life when grouped according to selected demographic variables
Understanding this study specifically explores the five key aspects of quality of life—health status, financial security, organizational affiliation, household relations, and access to senior citizen benefits, because these dimensions collectively represent the essential conditions that influence the overall well-being of older adults. Examining these interconnected factors provides a comprehensive understanding of how senior citizens experience daily life, allowing for a more accurate assessment of their needs and the effectiveness of existing programs and support systems.