Paper short abstract:

This mixed methods quasi experimental evaluation on the Mexican Non-Contributory Social Pension Program, shows mixed results. While results suggest that the program have an impact beyond the economic sphere, impacting even the mental well-being, delivery processes must be revisited due to unintended effects.

Paper long abstract:

In 2007, a non-contributory pension program was launched in rural areas of Mexico. The program consisted in a non-conditional cash transfer of US$40 monthly to all older adults (OA) aged 70 and over. We evaluate the effect of the program on mental well-being of its beneficiaries.

Quantitative and qualitative methods were used in this quasi experimental mixed method evaluation. Using ethnographic methods, the qualitative component was designed to explore possible causal pathways of such effect. For this component 129 semi structured interviews with beneficiaries, relatives of beneficiaries and key actors in communities were developed and four non participant observations the payment points were done. Additionally in 6,000 households a survey was carried on.

After a year of exposure, the program had a significant effect on reduction of depressive symptoms (b = 20.06, CI95% 20.12; 20.01) and an increase in empowerment experiences: elderly participated in important household decisions, they participated in household decisions pertaining to expenses where reciprocity was a central element on these findings. Nevertheless observation of the payment day revealed unintended social, emotional and health consequences for elderly. Structural violence was perceived uncovered in the formal program processes of the intervention delivery.

These results suggest that a non-conditional transfer in older ages have an impact beyond the economic sphere, impacting even the mental well-being, nevertheless delivery processes must be revisited.