The Delivery of Social Services Support for Senior Citizens and Differently Abled at Local Government Unit

Abstract

Social services play an important role in promoting the welfare, dignity, and quality of life of vulnerable members of the community, particularly senior citizens and differently abled individuals. Ensuring that these services are accessible, responsive, and delivered with quality is essential in addressing the needs of beneficiaries and in strengthening their trust and satisfaction with local government programs. This study assessed the delivery of social services support for senior citizens and differently abled individuals at the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Quezon, Isabela. The study employed a quantitative research method and a descriptive-correlational research design. Data were gathered from 130 respondents, consisting of 100 senior citizens and 30 differently abled individuals, through a structured questionnaire validated by experts in research. The findings revealed that senior citizens were generally aware of the social services provided by the LGU, while differently abled individuals were also generally aware. Social pension received the highest awareness rating among senior citizens, while medical assistance received the highest rating among differently abled individuals. The social services were generally perceived as accessible, while the quality of services was rated Very Good. Respondents were generally satisfied with the delivered social services. Significant differences in awareness, accessibility, and perceived quality were found according to age, civil status, barangay, and type of disability, while gender showed no significant difference. Significant relationships were also found between awareness and accessibility, awareness and quality, and awareness and satisfaction. The findings highlight the importance of sustained information dissemination, accessible services, and responsive and equitable service delivery for vulnerable sectors of the community.