Eva Belingon Felipe-Dimog
Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan
Title: Government and family support for older adults in the Philippines
Biography
Biography: Eva Belingon Felipe-Dimog
Abstract
The Philippines has an increasingly aging population thereby increasing the demand for healthcare and support from families and the government. Studies showed that the family is the main caregiver of elderly parents/adults as dictated by the Filipino culture of filial piety and respectful behavior towards older people. However, this caring culture is now slowly declining due to deteriorating family values and societal influences brought about by modernization. To assist Filipino older adults on their socioeconomic needs of Filipino older adults, laws and policies were enacted and being implemented by the government. Unfortunately, benefits from these government programs are not fully enjoyed by Filipino older adults due to implementation issues on the local government unit level. Hence, the government needs to revisits its policies and programs to cater to the needs and promote the rights and privileges of these vulnerable population group especially when families are incapable of providing care to their elderly. Family and the government can partner in giving care and support to Filipino older adults. The unique filial piety culture and respectful behavior towards older people must also be maintained. This article provides an overview of caring behavior of Filipino families to their elderly and the various government policies concerning socioeconomic assistance and privileges given to its senior citizens.