LANSIA BEKERJA SEBAGAI TUKANG BECAK DI KOTA TEMBILAHAN KABUPATEN INDRAGIRI HILIR

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the rational considerations of elderly individuals in
choosing and maintaining their work as pedicab drivers in Tembilahan City, Indragiri
Hilir Regency, and to identify the obstacles they face. The study was motivated by
the increasing number of elderly who continue to work in the informal sector due to
economic limitations and lack of social security. The research used a qualitative
descriptive approach with in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation. The
subjects in the study were 6 informants, 5 informants who worked as pedicab
drivers, and 1 informants were customers. James S. Coleman’s rational choice
theory served as the framework. The results show that the main motivations are
maintaining economic independence, filling spare time, and self-actualization.
Challenges include physical limitations, reduced customers, and competition with
modern transportation. The findings indicate that continuing to work as pedicab
drivers is an adaptive strategy for elderly survival.