SOCIAL ACTIVITY OF SENIORS IN RURAL AREAS

The aging of society in Poland is gaining a very fast pace, which is why numerous analyzes are being undertaken regarding its social consequences. Against the background of theoretical considerations regarding changes in the perception of this phenomenon, the results of senior opinion research conducted in rural areas of Podkarpacie are presented. The aim of the article is to identify the level and types of social activity among seniors living in rural areas of the Podkarpackie Voivodeship in the context of ongoing demographic changes resulting from characteristics such as gender and age. The study was conducted in 2023 among 431 individuals aged 60 years and older, residents of 251 localities located in 133 municipalities. The paper-and-pencil interviewing (PAPI) technique was used. The empirical part presents the attitudes and opinions of seniors about their capabilities and needs in the field of social activity. The analysis showed that the social activity of seniors in rural areas is low and strongly dependent on health, age and the availability of local resources – it is mainly informal and family in nature. Although most older people do not engage socially, there is untapped potential that could be activated by systemic activities and the creation of appropriate conditions in the local environment. This indicates the need for a locally rooted and individualized senior policy.