Experts warn that Nigeria's ageing population is facing a care crisis as increasing numbers of young and economically active Nigerians emigrate in search of better opportunities abroad. This exodus is putting pressure on the traditional family-based system of caring for older people, raising concerns about who will provide the necessary support. The National Senior Citizens Centre defines older persons as those aged 60 years and above and has a statutory mandate to cover their health, social care, income, security, and dignity.
The departure of children has brought new challenges to old age for many Nigerians. Mrs. Amina Yusuf, a 68-year-old woman, has two of her three children living in the United Kingdom, while the third works in another Nigerian state. Although her children send money for her upkeep, she says financial support cannot replace physical presence. She often relies on neighbours and church members for assistance with daily tasks and emergency care.
The strain on Nigeria's traditional reliance on family members for elder care is being exacerbated by migration, urbanisation, changing family structures, and economic realities. The National Senior Citizens Centre has recognised the need for caregiver training and standards for geriatric social care. However, the implementation of these measures is still a challenge. Many ageing parents, like Yusuf, are struggling to cope with the absence of their children.
A similar experience is described by 72-year-old Chalse Ehizogie, a retired soldier, whose two daughters live in Canada and son is based in the United States. Ehizogie, who has arthritis and occasionally requires assistance moving around, said his children pay his medical bills and employ a part-time domestic helper. However, he notes that money cannot replace physical presence, and he often needs somebody to accompany him to church, family ceremonies, or medical appointments.
The scale of Nigerian migration has changed considerably over the years, with many young people seeking better opportunities abroad. This has resulted in a significant number of ageing parents being left behind without support. Experts are calling for trained caregivers, home-based services, and stronger geriatric support to address this challenge.
Families are being urged to build local care networks for ageing parents. This can include neighbours, church members, and other community members who can provide assistance with daily tasks and emergency care. The development of home-based services and trained caregivers can also help alleviate the care crisis facing Nigeria's ageing population.
The care crisis facing Nigeria's ageing population is a pressing concern that requires urgent attention. With the traditional family-based system of caring for older people coming under strain, there is a need for innovative solutions to address this challenge. The government, experts, and families must work together to develop and implement effective care systems for ageing parents.
Key points
- Experts call for trained caregivers, home-based services, and stronger geriatric support.
- Families urged to build local care networks for ageing parents.
- Nigeria's traditional reliance on family members for elder care is coming under strain from migration, urbanisation, changing family structures, and economic realities.
