INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,  
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)  
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025  
Investigating the Relationship Between Budgeting Practices and  
Health Wellness Among Senior Citizen Social Pensioners  
Allysa Kate Q. Lacdao Wendy B. Mogol  
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Merryrose R. Palma  
Sarah Jane M. Muhi  
,
,
,
College of Business and Accountancy, Marinduque State University  
DOI : https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2025.1412000092  
Received: 24 December 2025; Accepted: 29 December 2025; Published: 08 January 2026  
ABSTRACT  
This study examined the association between budgeting practices and health wellness among senior citizen social  
pensioners in Mogpog, Marinduque, Philippines. Anchored on the Theory of Planned Behavior and Dunn’s  
Theory of Wellness, a quantitative descriptive–correlational design was employed involving 263 senior citizen  
social pensioners from 11 barangays. Data were collected using a validated survey instrument measuring  
budgeting practices attitude toward budgeting, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, behavioral  
intention, and actual budgeting behavior and health wellness across physical, mental, and social dimensions.  
Descriptive statistics, reliability testing, non parametric tests, and multivariate analysis were used to ensure  
analytical rigor. Results revealed that respondents generally demonstrated strong budgeting practices (grand  
mean = 3.89) and favorable health wellness outcomes (grand mean = 4.18). However, correlation and  
multivariate analyses indicated no statistically significant association between budgeting practices and health  
wellness (rs = 0.05, p = 0.42). Significant differences in budgeting practices were observed when respondents  
were grouped by gender and living arrangement, while no significant differences were found across marital  
status and educational attainment. The findings suggest that among low-income senior citizens reliant on social  
pensions, wellness is shaped more by structural and social determinants such as healthcare access, family support,  
and pension adequacy than by individual financial behavior alone. The study underscores the need for integrated  
financial, health, and social support interventions to enhance elderly well-being in rural communities.  
Keywords: budgeting practices; health wellness; senior citizen social pensioners; Theory of Planned Behavior;  
rural aging; social pensions; Philippines  
INTRODUCTION  
Understanding the connection between budgeting practices and the health wellness of senior citizen social  
pensioners is essential, as financial management has implications that extend beyond economic stability  
and may guide more responsive policy decisions. According to Mutale (2023), effective financial practices  
contribute to improved decision-making and long-term security, especially for retirees who rely on fixed and  
limited incomes. Similarly, Herrador-Alcaide, Hernández-Solís, and Topa (2021) emphasize that sound  
budgeting allows the elderly to sustain essential needs, which directly affects their physical and mental health  
outcomes.The relationship between budgeting practices and health extends beyond monetary concerns. As  
noted by Carandang et al. (2020), psychological and social factors also play a crucial role in shaping the overall  
wellness of elderly individuals. Financial strain can heighten stress levels, reduce motivation to participate in  
social activities, and affect decisions involving healthcare or medication. Limited financial capacity may  
further contribute to feelings of dependence, worry, or isolation, which can negatively influence mental and  
emotional well-being.This study aims to provide empirical insights into how budgeting practices influence  
the health wellness of senior citizen social pensioners in Mogpog. By identifying key patterns and challenges  
they face, the research seeks to assist policymakers, local government units, and community organizations in  
developing financial education programs and policy recommendations that support both effective  
financial management and improved overall well-being among the elderly.  
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ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025  
LITERATURE REVIEW  
Recent studies show that budgeting is essential for senior citizens, especially those dependent on limited  
pensions. Financial literacy plays a major role, seniors who understand basic financial concepts budget more  
effectively, prioritize needs, and manage resources with greater discipline (Mutale, 2023; Yildirim & Gokce,  
2022). Studies also note that tracking expenses and making informed decisions improves financial stability,  
particularly in rural areas with limited access to financial education (Czech et al., 2024; Idárraga-Cabrera et al.,  
2020). In the Philippines, pensioners often struggle to stretch their income, making budgeting a critical tool  
for daily survival (Garchitorena & De Castro, 2022; Cahigas et al., 2021). Health wellness among seniors is  
closely linked to financial and social conditions. Those with stable finances can better maintain their physical,  
mental, and social well-being through adequate nutrition, medication, and healthcare access (Kim & Hwang,  
2022; Carandang et al., 2020). Conversely, financial strain contributes to stress, limited healthcare access,  
and increased loneliness, negatively affecting wellness (Costa et al., 2023; Zalsos et al., 2021). Strong  
social relationships and community involvement also enhance life satisfaction and reduce isolation among  
older adults (Huang et al., 2022; Miyata et al., 2021). However, most studies focus on urban or financially  
secure seniors, leaving a gap regarding rural Filipino pensioners. In places like Mogpog, low financial literacy,  
limited budgeting tools, and demographic factors make financial management more difficult (Mutale, 2023;  
Piekut, 2020). Seniors relying solely on minimal pensions face challenges in meeting basic needs and sustaining  
their wellness (Minako, 2024; Monje, 2022). Overall, the literature shows that budgeting and health  
wellness are interconnected, but the unique struggles of rural senior social pensioners require further  
local investigation.  
Theoretical Framework  
This study is guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1985) and Dunn’s Theory of Wellness  
(1961). Together, these frameworks provide a lens for understanding how financial management influences the  
overall health and wellness of senior pensioners in Mogpog, Marinduque.The Theory of Planned Behavior  
(Ajzen, 1985) suggests that behavior is driven by intentions, shaped by attitude, subjective norms, and  
perceived control. Applied to Mogpog senior pensioners, it explains how their attitudes toward budgeting,  
social expectations, and perceived financial control influence their budgeting practices. These behaviors,  
in turn, affect their physical, mental, and social well-being.  
Theory ofPlanned Behavior  
Figure 1.  
Dunn’s Theory of Wellness (1961) views wellness as a dynamic balance ofphysical, mental, and social health,  
emphasizing growth and conscious choices to improve well-being. In this study, it provides a framework for  
understanding how budgeting practices among Mogpog senior pensioners can support holistic wellness by  
enabling better access to healthcare, nutrition, and social activities, thereby enhancing physical, mental, and  
social health.  
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ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025  
Figure 2.  
Dunn s’ Theory of Wellness  
This study is guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Dunn’s Theory of Wellness. TPB posits that  
behavior is shaped by attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control, which influence behavioral  
intention and actual behavior. In this study, budgeting practices are operationalized through five TPB-based  
dimensions: attitude toward budgeting, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, behavioral intention, and  
actual budgeting behavior.  
Dunn’s Theory of Wellness conceptualizes wellness as a dynamic balance among physical, mental, and social  
dimensions, emphasizing that well-being is influenced by multiple interacting factors rather than a single  
determinant. This framework informs the measurement and interpretation of health wellness outcomes,  
supporting the view that financial behavior operates within broader social and institutional contexts.The Theory  
of Planned Behavior guided the operationalization of budgeting practices by framing financial behavior as a  
function of attitude toward budgeting, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, behavioral intention, and  
actual budgeting behavior. Dunn’s Theory of Wellness informed the conceptualization of health wellness as a  
multidimensional construct encompassing physical, mental, and social domains.  
Statement of the Problem  
Specifically, the study sought to answer:  
1. What is the demographic profile of the senior citizen social pensioners in Mogpog, Marinduque in terms of:  
1.1. Gender;  
1.2.Marital Status;  
1.3.Living Arrangement;  
1.4.Educational Attainment; and  
1.5.Budget Allocation?  
2. What is the level of budgeting practices ofthe senior citizen social pensioners in Mogpog, Marinduque in  
terms of:  
2.1.Attitude Towards Budgeting;  
2.2.Subjective Norms;  
2.3.Perceived Behavioral Control;  
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ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025  
2.4. Behavioral Intention; and  
2.5.Actual Budgeting Behavior?  
3. What is the level of health wellness among senior citizen social pensioners in Mogpog, Marinduque as their:  
3.1.Physical Health;  
3.2.Mental Health; and  
3.3.Social Well-being?  
4. Is there a significant relationship between the budgeting practices and the level ofhealth wellness among  
senior citizen social pensioners?  
5. Is there a significant difference in budgeting practices when grouped according to demographic profile?  
6. What policy could be proposed based on the result?  
Review of Related Literature (Aligned Summary)  
Existing literature consistently shows that population aging, particularly in low-income and rural contexts, is  
shaped by the interaction of financial security, healthcare access, and social support. The World Health  
Organization emphasizes that healthy aging extends beyond the absence of illness and depends on maintaining  
functional ability through supportive environments and accessible services (WHO, 2020). Among older adults,  
budgeting practices function primarily as subsistence-oriented coping strategies, enabling the prioritization of  
basic needs such as food and medication, especially for pension-dependent individuals (Piekut, 2020; Mutale,  
2023). While the Theory of Planned Behavior explains how attitudes, social norms, and perceived control shape  
budgeting behavior (Ajzen, 1991), empirical studies caution that strong budgeting intentions do not necessarily  
translate into improved outcomes when income remains insufficient and structural constraints persist (Costa et  
al., 2023).  
Health wellness in later life is widely conceptualized as a multidimensional construct encompassing physical,  
mental, and social well-being, with strong evidence linking financial strain to poorer health outcomes, increased  
stress, and reduced healthcare utilization (Giang et al., 2022; Kim & Hwang, 2022). In the Philippine context,  
social pensions provide essential subsistence support but are often inadequate to fully address healthcare-related  
expenses, limiting their impact on overall wellness (Macatangay, 2023). Moreover, social support and living  
arrangements play a critical moderating role, as family co-residence and caregiving support consistently buffer  
the negative effects of financial hardship on elderly well-being (Hwang & Sim, 2021; Singh et al., 2021).  
Despite these insights, existing studies frequently examine financial behavior, social pensions, or health  
outcomes in isolation and rarely integrate theory-driven financial behavior models with multidimensional  
wellness frameworks in rural, pension-dependent populations. Addressing this gap, the present study examines  
budgeting practices through the lens of the Theory of Planned Behavior and assesses health wellness across  
physical, mental, and social dimensions among senior citizen social pensioners in Mogpog, Marinduque, thereby  
providing localized evidence to inform policy and community-based interventions for aging populations.  
METHODOLOGY  
Research Design  
A quantitative descriptive–correlational research design was employed to examine the association between  
budgeting practices and health wellness.  
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Participants and Locale  
The respondents comprised 263 senior citizen social pensioners aged 60 years and above from 11 barangays in  
Mogpog, Marinduque. All participants were beneficiaries of the SPISC program. Purposive random sampling  
was used to ensure representation across barangays.  
Research Instrument  
Items measuring budgeting practices were developed in accordance with the core constructs of the Theory of  
Planned Behavior, while health wellness items were structured based on the dimensions proposed in Dunn’s  
Theory of Wellness. This ensured theoretical alignment between measurement and conceptual framework.  
Reliability and Validity  
Content validity of the research instrument was established through expert evaluation by faculty members with  
specialization in finance, social research, and aging studies. The instrument was reviewed for clarity, relevance,  
and alignment with the study objectives. Internal consistency reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha.  
All major constructs yielded acceptable reliability coefficients, with values exceeding the minimum threshold of  
0.70, indicating satisfactory internal consistency of the measurement scales.  
Data Analysis  
Descriptive statistics were used to summarize respondent characteristics and variable levels. Spearman’s rank  
correlation assessed the relationship between budgeting practices and health wellness. Multivariate analysis was  
employed to control for potential confounding variables such as gender, educational attainment, and living  
arrangement.Beyond descriptive statistics, inferential analyses were conducted to enhance analytical rigor.  
Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was employed to examine the association between budgeting practices  
and health wellness due to the ordinal nature of the data. The Kruskal–Wallis H test was used to determine  
statistically significant differences in budgeting practices across demographic groups. These analyses allowed  
for meaningful interpretation of relationships and group variations beyond simple description.  
To account for potential confounding effects, multivariate analysis was conducted by controlling for selected  
demographic variables, including gender, educational attainment, and living arrangement. These variables were  
chosen due to their documented relevance in financial behavior and wellness studies among older adults.  
Ethical Considerations  
Ethical protocols were strictly observed. Informed consent was obtained from all respondents, and  
confidentiality, anonymity, and voluntary participation were ensured throughout the study.and the three  
dimensions of health wellness. A five-point Likert scale served as the basis for interpreting the responses on  
budgeting and wellness indicators.Ethical standards  
guided the entire research process. Informed consent  
was secured from all respondents, and strict confidentiality, anonymity, and voluntary participation were  
observed. The researchers ensured that no physical, emotional, or psychological harm was inflicted on  
participants and that honesty, integrity, and accuracy were upheld in all stages of data collection and reporting.  
The study was carried out over a ten-month period, from January to October 2025, covering proposal  
development, instrument validation, data collection, data analysis, and final presentation ofresults.  
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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION  
Demographic Profile of the Respondents  
Table 1. Demographic Profile of Senior Citizen Social Pensioners in Mogpog Marinduque (n = 263)  
Variable  
Category  
Frequency  
Percentage (%)  
Gender  
Male  
94  
169  
17  
157  
85  
4
35.74  
64.26  
6.46  
Female  
Single  
Married  
Marital Status  
59.70  
32.32  
1.52  
Widowed  
Separated  
Living Arrangement  
With family  
Living alone  
No formal education  
Elementary  
High School  
Vocational  
College  
241  
22  
6
91.63  
8.37  
Educational Attainment  
2.28  
163  
71  
7
61.98  
27.00  
2.66  
16  
6.08  
The demographic profile of senior citizen social pensioners according to gender profile of the 263 participants.  
The results show that 64.26% (169) of the respondents are female, while 35.74% (94) are male. This reveals that  
most of senior citizen social pensioners within Mogpog, Marinduque are women. This pattern is consistent with  
national and regional aging trends in the Philippines, where women tend to have higher life expectancy and  
elderly individuals often reside with extended families (Palmes et al., 2021; Felipe-Dimog et al., 2024). Low  
educational attainment among respondents suggests limited lifetime earning capacity and reduced access to  
formal financial knowledge, which may constrain financial decision-making in later life (Pacolet, 2021; He et  
al., 2022). Living with family members may provide emotional and material support that mitigates financial and  
health vulnerabilities, a factor shown to be critical in elderly well-being (Hwang & Sim, 2021).  
Level of Budgeting Practices  
Budgeting practices were assessed using TPB-based dimensions.  
Table 2.  
Level ofBudgeting Practices ofthe Senior Citizen Social Pensioners  
Summary of Level ofBudgeting Practices ofSenior Citizen Social Pensioners  
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Verbal Description  
Indicators  
Overall Mean  
2.1. Attitude towards Budgeting  
2.2. Subjective Norms  
2.3. Perceived Behavioral Control  
2.4. Behavioral Intention  
2.5. Actual Budgeting Behavior  
Grand Mean  
4.15  
Often Practiced  
3.23  
Sometimes Practiced  
Always Practiced  
Often Practiced  
4.39  
3.91  
3.81  
Often Practiced  
3.89  
Often Practiced  
The table demonstrates the result of the level of budgeting practices of respondents. In terms of subjective  
norms the overall mean of 4.15 is noted as "Often Practiced." The results indicate that senior citizen social  
pensioners frequently practice budgeting, particularly in terms of perceived behavioral control. According to the  
Theory of Planned Behavior, perceived behavioral control reflects an individual’s confidence in managing a  
behavior despite constraints (Ajzen, 1991). In the context of fixed and limited income, this high level of  
perceived control suggests that budgeting serves as an adaptive coping mechanism rather than a tool for wealth  
accumulation. Similar findings have been reported among low-income elderly populations, where budgeting is  
necessity-driven and oriented toward survival rather than long-term financial growth (Mutale, 2023; Langabeer  
et al., 2024).  
Level of Health Wellness  
Health wellness was measured across physical, mental, and social dimensions.  
Table 3.  
Level ofHealth Wellness ofSenior Citizen Social Pensioners  
Summary ofLevel ofHealth Wellness ofSenior Citizen Social Pensioners  
Indicators  
Overall Mean  
4.33  
Verbal description  
Strongly Agree  
Agree  
3.1. Physical Health  
3.2. Mental Health  
3.3. Social Well-Being  
Grand Mean  
4.00  
4.20  
Agree  
4.18  
Agree  
The table shows the result of the level of health wellness of respondents. In terms of physical health the  
overall mean of4.33 is noted as "Strongly Agree." Herlina et al. (2022), stated that maintaining regular exercise  
and personal care leads to better health of the elderly. Likewise, Mahmood et al. (2021) highlighted that  
confidence in self-care is a key indicator of good physical condition among senior citizens. In terms of  
mental health the overall mean of 4.00 is noted as "Agree." Respondents reported generally favorable levels  
of health wellness, particularly in physical health. This finding aligns with studies suggesting that elderly  
individuals living in family-oriented societies often maintain acceptable wellness despite economic hardship due  
to shared caregiving and social support (Carandang et al., 2020; Kim & Hwang, 2022). Dunn’s Theory of  
Wellness emphasizes that wellness is shaped by the interaction of multiple domains, including social and  
environmental factors, rather than financial behavior alone (Dunn, 1961; Huang et al., 2022).  
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Relationship Between Budgeting Practices and Health Wellness  
The relationship between budgeting practices and health wellness was examined using Spearman’s rank  
correlation.  
Table 4.  
Correlation Between Budgeting Practices and Health Wellness  
Spearman’ S Rank Coefficient Correlation  
Variables  
Spearman’s rho (rs)  
p-value  
Interpretation  
Budgeting Practices – Health  
0.05  
0.42  
Not Significant  
Wellness  
The table presents the results of the Spearman’s Coefficient Correlation analysis examining the relationship  
between budgeting practices and health wellness among senior citizen social pensioners in Mogpog,  
Marinduque. The Correlation analysis revealed a very weak positive relationship between budgeting  
practices and overall health wellness (rs = 0.05, p = 0.42), indicating that variations in budgeting  
behavior were not systematically related to differences in physical, mental, or social wellness. This outcome  
aligns with the findings of Lorejo (2023) and Costa et al. (2023), who emphasized that older adults’ wellness  
is influenced by multiple interacting factors such as social support, access to healthcare, and health literacy,  
rather than financial management alone. This suggests that variations in budgeting behavior do not correspond  
to differences in wellness outcomes among senior citizen social pensioners. Previous research indicates that  
when income levels are insufficient to meet basic needs, financial behaviors alone have limited influence on  
health outcomes, which are more strongly shaped by healthcare access, social support, and pension adequacy  
(Giang et al., 2022; Costa et al., 2023). The findings reinforce the importance of interpreting financial behavior  
within broader structural contexts and avoiding causal claims in correlational studies.  
Differences in Budgeting Practices by Demographic Profile  
Differences in budgeting practices across demographic groups were examined using the Kruskal–Wallis H test.  
Table 5.  
Differences in Budgeting Practices of Senior Citizen Social Pensioners When Grouped According to  
Demographic Profile  
Kruskal-Wallis Test  
Demographic  
h-Test  
P-Value  
Verbal  
Decision  
Description  
Gender  
3.834  
5.786  
11.01 6  
8.663  
0.045  
Significant  
Reject Null Hypothesis  
Accept Null Hypothesis  
Reject Null Hypothesis  
Accept Null Hypothesis  
Marital Status  
Living Arrangement  
0.122  
0.001  
0.07  
Not Significant  
Significant  
Educational  
Attainment  
Not Significant  
The table presents the findings of the Kruskal-Wallis H Test, which was used to examine the significant  
difference in the budgeting practices of senior citizen social pensioners when grouped according to their  
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demographic profile. For gender (H = 3.834, p = 0.045), since the p value is less than the 0.05 level of  
significance then the decision is significant. This finding is consistent with Świecka et al.(2021), who  
emphasized that gender is a significant factor influencing financial behavior. Meanwhile, living arrangement  
(H = 11.016, p = 0.001) also yielded a significant difference. This finding is consistent with Jenifer and  
Hemalatha (2024), who highlighted that seniors living in joint family systems tend to have better budgeting  
habits. On the other hand, marital status (H = 5.786, p = 0. 122) did not yield a significant difference.  
Macatangay (2023), noted that elderly budgeting behaviors were largely influenced by the availability of  
resources and priorities such as food and healthcare, rather than marital status. Educational attainment (H =  
8.663, p = 0.070) revealed no significant difference.  
Significant differences in budgeting practices were observed across gender and living arrangement. Gender-  
based differences in financial behavior have been widely documented, with women often assuming greater  
responsibility for household financial management (Świecka et al., 2025; Moreno, 2023). Living arrangement  
also plays a critical role, as seniors living with family members benefit from shared decision-making and pooled  
resources, which enhance budgeting practices (Singh et al., 2021; Jenifer & Hemalatha, 2024).  
The absence of significant differences across marital status and education suggests that economic scarcity  
constrains the influence of these demographic factors (Macatangay, 2023). Taken together, the findings  
demonstrate that while senior citizen social pensioners in Mogpog practice budgeting and report favorable  
wellness, these constructs are not statistically associated. This supports existing literature emphasizing that  
wellness among low-income elderly populations is shaped more by structural, institutional, and social  
determinants than by individual financial behavior (Dunn, 1961; Costa et al., 2023). The results highlight the  
need for integrated community and policy interventions that address healthcare access, social protection, and  
family support alongside financial education.  
Even after controlling for selected demographic characteristics, budgeting practices did not significantly predict  
health wellness. This finding suggests that structural and social determinants, such as healthcare access and  
family support, may exert stronger influence on wellness outcomes than individual financial behavior among  
low-income senior citizens.  
CONCLUSION  
The study concludes that senior citizen social pensioners in Mogpog generally demonstrate commendable  
financial discipline and resilience despite having limited income and relying mainly on their social pension.  
Given the descriptive–correlational research design, causal inferences cannot be drawn from the findings, and  
interpretations are limited to observed associations. They remain healthy, confident, and supported, though  
some still experience financial strain. The findings highlighted that while seniors hold positive attitudes  
consistent with behavioral and wellness theories, budgeting practices do not significantly influence their health  
wellness, as other factors such as healthcare access, family support, and pension adequacy play a larger  
role.Based on these findings, the researchers proposed a comprehensive policy recommendation “Integrated  
Financial Wellness and Health Support Policy for Senior Citizen Social Pensioners”  
RECOMMENDATIONS  
Based on the findings that senior citizen social pensioners in Mogpog demonstrate relatively strong budgeting  
practices that are not significantly associated with health wellness, this study recommends a shift from  
individual-centered financial solutions toward structural, community-based, and research-informed approaches.  
The recommendations below address both practical implementation for stakeholders and directions for future  
researchers, ensuring sustained community impact and continued scholarly advancement.  
Integrate Financial Guidance with Health and Social Support Services  
Local government units (LGUs), through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO),  
Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA), and Municipal Health Office, should adopt an integrated service  
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delivery model that combines basic budgeting guidance with health education, benefit orientation, and social  
support services. Rather than stand-alone financial literacy seminars, financial guidance may be embedded  
within pension payout activities, barangay health programs, and senior citizen assemblies. Empirical studies  
indicate that integrated financial–health interventions are more effective for low-income elderly populations  
because they directly address competing priorities such as medication, nutrition, and healthcare access (Giang  
et al., 2022; Costa et al., 2023).This approach links budgeting decisions to health priorities, reduces financial  
stress, and improves the practical relevance of financial education for senior citizens.  
Strengthen Community-Based Healthcare Access for Senior Citizens  
Given that health wellness is more strongly shaped by healthcare access than by financial behavior alone, LGUs  
should expand barangay-level health services, including regular medical checkups, mobile clinics, and home-  
visit programs for frail or immobile seniors. Research consistently shows that accessible primary healthcare  
improves physical and mental wellness among older adults, particularly those with limited income (Kim &  
Hwang, 2022; Huang et al., 2022).Improved healthcare access reduces out-of-pocket expenses, preserves limited  
pension resources, and supports sustained wellness among senior citizens.  
Promote Family-Centered Financial and Wellness Planning  
The significant differences in budgeting practices based on gender and living arrangement underscore the  
importance of household dynamics. Family-centered programs that involve caregivers and household members  
in budgeting and wellness planning should be promoted. Barangay councils may organize family-oriented  
orientations during pension distribution days or community meetings. Evidence suggests that shared decision-  
making within households enhances resource allocation and strengthens social support for elderly members  
(Singh et al., 2021; Jenifer & Hemalatha, 2024). Engaging families distributes responsibility, strengthens  
intergenerational support, and leads to more sustainable financial and health decisions for senior citizens.  
Establish Barangay-Level Emergency and Micro-Support Mechanisms  
The findings indicate that senior citizen social pensioners allocate most of their income to food and medication,  
leaving minimal capacity for emergencies. Barangay councils, in partnership with civic and non-government  
organizations, may establish emergency assistance or micro-support funds dedicated to senior citizens.  
Community-based safety nets have been shown to protect elderly individuals from financial shocks and prevent  
deterioration in health and well-being during crises (Macatangay, 2023; Garchitorena & de Castro, 2022).These  
mechanisms enhance community resilience, prevent indebtedness, and safeguard the dignity and basic needs of  
senior citizens during emergencies.  
Reframe Financial Education Toward Empowerment and Informed Decision-Making  
Although budgeting skills are evident, these practices are largely survival-oriented. Financial education  
initiatives should be reframed toward empowerment, prioritization of health-related spending, and awareness of  
government benefits and entitlements. Programs should be simplified, culturally sensitive, and delivered in the  
local language to match the educational profile of senior citizens. Studies show that empowerment-based  
financial education improves confidence, autonomy, and participation among elderly populations more  
effectively than technical instruction alone (Mutale, 2023; Piekut, 2020).Empowered senior citizens are better  
equipped to make informed decisions, maintain independence, and engage actively in community life.  
Institutionalize a Local Senior Wellness and Financial Resilience Framework  
To address fragmented service delivery, the LGU of Mogpog may institutionalize a Senior Wellness and  
Financial Resilience Framework that aligns social pension distribution, healthcare services, financial guidance,  
and community engagement initiatives. Integrating this framework into the Local Development Plan and Annual  
Investment Program promotes coordination, sustainability, and accountability. Multisectoral approaches have  
been shown to yield more durable improvements in elderly well-being than isolated interventions (Dunn, 1961;  
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ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIV, Issue XII, December 2025  
Costa et al., 2023). A coordinated framework maximizes public resources, strengthens policy coherence, and  
delivers long-term improvements in the quality of life of senior citizen social pensioners.  
For Future Researchers  
Future research on budgeting practices and health wellness among senior citizen social pensioners should move  
beyond cross-sectional and behavior-centered approaches by incorporating longitudinal and mixed-methods  
designs that capture changes in financial behavior, health status, and social support over time. Scholars are  
encouraged to expand analytical models to include key structural determinants such as healthcare accessibility,  
pension adequacy, health literacy, social support networks, and psychological resilience, which appear to exert  
stronger influence on wellness outcomes than individual budgeting behavior alone. Comparative and  
intervention-based studies across different localities are also recommended to examine how variations in  
governance capacity and service delivery affect elderly well-being. Strengthening measurement instruments and  
employing more advanced multivariate or structural modeling techniques will further enhance theoretical  
refinement and policy relevance, ultimately contributing to more holistic, evidence-based strategies for  
improving the quality of life of low-income aging populations.  
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