An Overview of Communication System of the Elderly after Retirement

Abstract

This chapter presents a concise description of the relational system of the elderly after retirement. The association between age of retirement and frailty can be different in comparison with health. Frailty in older adults is a very common condition and associated with adverse (health) outcomes, like hospitalization, institutionalization and death. The method used in this study is the interview-based survey and the results are obtained after interviewing twenty people. They are between 65 and 80 years old and some of them live in rural areas and others live in urban areas. The interviewees underlined the value of maintaining relationships with family, friends, and the community after retirement. The elderly look after their grandchildren and help around the house. They also receive assistance from family, friends, neighbors, and the community when they are in need (whether they are ill, unable to move, or alone). The elderly wellbeing is largely generated by the social network through communication, through exchanging experience or "reviving memories".Among the activities facilitating the development and consolidation of the relational system, the following stand out: agricultural work, household activities, caring for grandchildren, involvement in community life.  All of the testimonies underscore the essential needs of the elderly, including opportunities to express opinions, ideas, and feelings, community connections, safety and security, and a sense of purpose. These findings can serve as an excellent springboard for building and creating appropriate local laws as well as for the local development of the social network.