This study examined the determinants of life
satisfaction among the elderly in Nigeria. A survey
research design was adopted for this study. A total of
194 participants were randomly selected. These
participants were made up of 77 males and 117
females. Their ages ranged from 60-88 years. Four
hypotheses were raised and tested. The findings
revealed that the sample mean for all the participants
was 19 which represents slightly dissatisfied with life.
However, no significant differences were found in life
satisfaction on the bases of gender, age, marital status
and job status. It was concluded that the reason for
the low level of life satisfaction among the elders was
due to the weak nature of the care and support available
to the elderly due to changes in the family system in
Nigeria. It was recommended that the elderly must
be provided financial support both by the government
and family members. They must be helped to realize
that their waning years are not meant to be frustrating
and fruitless. Age-adjusted policies and programmes
that encourage workplace flexibility, lifelong learning
and healthy lifestyles, especially during transitional
periods should be put in place.