Abstract
The main aim of this qualitative study was to delve and understand the lived experiences of Filipino elderly. This descriptive qualitative study was underpinned with the 'Adaptation Theory' in a phenomenological approach. Semi-structure interviews, observations, field notes, and qualitative documents were purposively collected from 12 Filipino elderly. Inclusion criteria were used in selecting the participants to show homogeneity. Data were analyzed and interpreted using Colaizzi method. In addition, the quality of reporting was authenticated by COREQ standards for qualitative studies. For the results, the lived experiences generated four emergent themes: the world of agism, the trauma of elderly abuse, the rise above the challenges, and the future of elderly entailed the active participation and involvement of people in building what can be done for the elderly to provide dignified life they deserve and to maximize their potentials as a person despite of the minimal time they have. The study concluded that understanding the experiences of the Filipino elderly will be an efficient way to assess the needs of this sector to live with respect and dignity. Lastly, this qualitative study would like to reiterate to people the essence of social responsibility in loving and taking care of the elderly sector.