Elder Abuse in Benue State, Nigeria: Exploring the Multifaceted Determinants

Abstract

Abuse of the elderly is a well-known social, economic, psychological, and public health problem that is pervasive across the globe. In developing nations such as Nigeria, the unprecedented number of elderly population has resulted in the growing tendency for elder abuse. In fact, evidence suggests that abuse of the elderly is common in Nigeria where the elderly suffer physical injuries, humiliation, financial devastation, depression, cognitive decline, and death. This paper examined the factors contributing to abuse of the elderly population in Nigeria. The focus was to examine economic factors contributing to the mistreatment of the elderly population in Benue State; assess the factors within the socio-cultural context of Benue State that contribute to abuse of the elderly; and ascertain the effects of abuse on the elderly in Benue State. The Situational Theory was adopted for the study. The paper demonstrates how poverty, unemployment, poor living conditions, social isolation, ageism, gender discrimination, normalization of violence as well as poor parenting and weak institutions contribute to abuse of the elderly in Benue State. It recommends government’s prioritization of the welfare of the elderly population by prompt payment of their salaries, pensions and gratuities, and sustained collaboration among stakeholders including the police and 
human rights organizations, elders and youth groups in sensitizing against prejudices, discrimination, and other negative practices against the elderly population in Benue State.