Changing Philosophy for Care and Support for the Elderly in South-Western Nigeria: A Qualitative Approach

Akanni I. Akinyemi, Obafemi Awolowo University
Adunola Adepoju, University of Lagos
Ogunbameru A. Olakunle, Obafemi Awolowo University

This paper examines the changing philosophy of the traditional care and support of the elderly in South-Western Nigeria. The method of inquiry was basically qualitative through focus group discussions (12 sessions) with some elderly (60 years and above) and in-depth interviews (12 sessions) with some prime age adults. The findings showed that the perception of people towards the elderly was quite different from what it used to be in the past. The values placed on the elderly were diminishing, and also is the perception of their contribution to development. The paper concludes that orientation programmes as well as sensitization programmes that appreciate values of the elderly be encouraged and promoted.