The elderly population in Nigeria is growing at an extremely fast rate, similarly to other developed and developing countries around the world. This quick growth of the elderly population raises a lot of concerns for many Nigerians, specifically the elderly. Traditionally, in past generations, elders were afforded great care and respect from their families, friends, and communities. Although, it is this kin network that is still supporting the elders today, as noted in a previous post, the amount of respect and care given to elders is declining and as a result so is their quality of life.
Some of the reasons for this decline include the rise of modernization, industrialization, individualization and many other economic changes. Today, adult children, especially males, live very far away from their elderly parents. But for those living within a close proximity to their parents, many adult children have become more concerned with providing for their own immediate families, children’s needs and maintaining their own financial prospects and security. The changing economy of Nigeria, effects the amount resources that adult children of the elderly are able to allocate to their parents. As a result, elderly parents are dissatisfied in the little financial, emotional and social support that their children are giving to them.
In conclusion, the Nigerian government needs to step up and provide more assistance and support to its elderly, especially since this population is growing very quickly and is living much longer than it has in the past. This is necessary because despite the fact that the elderly are still given support from their children and extended family members, the support they are given is often inadequate and irregular. To supplement this lack of support, more programs and institutions need to be put in place to support the elderly and ensure that they are still given access to a decent quality of life.
References:
Okumagba, Paul O. “Family Support for the Elderly in Delta State of Nigeria.” Stud Home Comm Sci 5.1 (2011): 21-27.
Peil, Margaret. “Family Support for the Nigerian Elderly.” Journal of Comparative Family Studies 22.1 (1991): 85-100. Web. 9 Nov. 2013.
Unanka, Godwin O. “Family Support and Health Status of the Elderly in Imo State of Nigeria.” Journal of Social Issues 58.4 (2002): 681-95.
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