Gebremariam, Messay (PhD)Zelalem, Abraham2018-10-032023-11-042018-10-032023-11-042017-05http://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/123456789/12424The literature recognizes that gerentological enquiries are generally scarce in Africa. Despite the overall dearth of gerentological studies in Ethiopia, most of studies conducted on issues of older people hitherto excluded rural older people. Nevertheless, many of rural older people are totally excluded from public pension. Besides, rural older people have suffered a plethora of plights. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore, describe, and interpret experiences of ageing of older people in agrarian community. Hermeneutic phenomenology was used to look into the experience of 10 older people (6 male and 4 female) aged 70 and more years recruited purposively. In-depth interview and observation were used in order to collect data from the participants. The data were analyzed through phenomenological data explication guideline adopted from different authors. The findings of the study indicate that the participants of the study do not attach positive meanings to their ageing body. Though they do not nullify their children’s filial responsibility and intergenerational solidarity, they are displeased with them. Thus, they have developed sense of devaluation or sense of loss of worth. As a result, they are pessimistic about their future care when they totally lose their personal agency. Apart from decreased engagement, the participants have different socio-economic participations .The participants have suffered from different challenges .The findings of the study can sensitize policy makers and other concerned bodies to the needs of older people. Additionally, the study can be an input for future further studies on the issue. The implication of the study is that there is a need to enhance gerentological enquiries in the countryside and a wholehearted collaboration among various stakeholders to mitigate multifaceted challenges and meet needs of rural older people. Key words: aging, filial responsibility, intergenerational solidarity, engagementenAging; Filial responsibility; Intergenerational olidarity; EngagementThesis