Education as a correlate of life satisfaction among retired older people in Lagos State, Nigeria

Gift Omobolanle G.O. Amaike, University of Lagos

This paper examines the relationship between educational attainment and life satisfaction among formal sector retirees in Lagos State. The core objective is to determine the effects of retirees’ educational status on their livelihood and life satisfaction in old age. The life course perspective and modernization theory of ageing are adopted as theoretical framework. Using a systematic sampling method, a study was conducted through the use of questionnaire (1321), focus group (8) and in-depth interviews (20). Logistic regression results showed significant differences in livelihood, living conditions and life satisfaction with retirees with tertiary (higher) educational qualifications being more than two times likely to have adequate livelihood and better living conditions compared to other educational categories. Logistic regression models further strengthen and validate the results of Pearson Chi-square. The paper recommends continuous improvement in educational status of Nigerian workers to ensure their well-being and quality of life in old age.