A Socio-Cultural Narrative of Homes for Older People in Eswatini: A Wellness Perspective

Abstract

This paper presents a narrative of socio-cultural perceptions of homes for old people in Eswatini and their impact on indigenous and cultural norms of the old generation who are the beneficiaries of these homes. On top of establishing that there is a paucity of published research on elderly care and support in Eswatini, the paper argues that the majority of old people still reside in the rural areas where indigenous socio-cultural values are strongly held. It also establishes evidence of growing economic shocks and rising inequality, all heightening old-age vulnerabilities. The government has not sufficiently responded to the needs of older people even with the constant advantage of the low population of older people in Eswatini. The paper argues that Eswatini needs interventions that are culturally appropriate for successes to be recorded in all aspects of development. It advocates for the UNESCO (1995-2012) model that calls for interventions that are culturally appropriate, gender and age responsive, grounded in human rights and involving people affected by the interventions. There is need for a care and support system that permits the elderly to remain in their homes.

Keywords: Older people, homes, Eswatini, socio-cultural, narratives

DOI: 10.7176/JCSD/51-02

Publication date:September 30^th 2019