Perception and Experience of Abuse among Older Adults in a Rural Community in Nigeria

Background: Abuse of older adults is a global public health concern and can be viewed as any action that undermines the dignity and respect to which older individuals are entitled, with significant cultural connotations. Existing research on older adult abuse and neglect has predominantly focused on developed countries, leaving a paucity of empirical evidence from developing contexts such as Nigeria.Purpose: This study explored the perception of abuse among older adults, its various forms, and the extent to which older people experience abuse.Methods: A phenomenological study was conducted among 18 older adults residing in Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using an interview guide with open-ended questions and were analysed using content analysis.Results: The findings uncovered four themes representing the types of abuse commonly experienced by older adults. These include: (i) distress caused by the sensual conduct of the younger generation; (ii) assault and neglect; (iii) deprivation of rights and access to property; and (iv) structural/institutional abuse by governmental agencies.Conclusion: This study showed that elder abuse manifests in multiple forms, including physical, emotional, financial, sexual, neglect, and structural/institutional abuse, which are often rooted in sociocultural practices, economic hardships, and systemic failures. Therefore, measures should be put in place to protect the rights of older adults. In addition, prevention and early detection of abuse should be given priority to make ageing a pleasurable rather than an agonising experience for older adults.