Factors Associated with Living Arrangement of Older Rickshaw-Pullers in Bangladesh

Abstract

Abstract The rickshaw-puller is the person who drives the rickshaw and carries passengers from one place to another to earn financial capital. The research aims to examine Dhaka city’s older rickshaw-pullers’ demographic, social, and economic situations to gain an understanding of their living arrangements along with suggestions to enhance their livelihood conditions. The study uses purposive sampling to explore the living arrangements of older rickshaw-pullers in Dhaka city by collecting primary data from forty respondents. The major findings showed natural disasters and the search for better living standards are the two determining factors behind migration. However, most of the respondents did not have any prior experience in pulling rickshaws. Major problems noted to borrow money as a substantial portion of their earnings was spent on their medical treatments. Both short-term and long-term rehabilitation to other occupations is an urgent requirement considering their age. Future research needs to provide a comparison between young adult rickshaw-pullers and older ones and how this relates to their need for social services.