Breaking the silence: Unveiling the prevalence and consequences of elder neglect in Nigerian society

This study therefore aimed to narrow this gap by investigating prevalence, forms, consequences, and contributing factors of elder neglect in Nigerian society. Underpinned by the Social Support Theory, Cultural Context and Caregiving Models, and a Human Rights-Based Approach to elder care, the study employed a survey research design. 1,000 respondents, including older adults of 60 years and above, caregivers, and community leaders were drawn using convenient and purposive, multi-stage sampling techniques. Data was collected employing surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and presented in tables of frequency counts and percentages. Findings revealed that elder neglect is significantly prevalent in Nigeria and manifests in various forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and social neglect. The consequences are far-reaching, leading to declining health, loss of dignity, increased dependency, and social isolation among older adults, while also straining families and communities. Factors contributing to Elder neglect include, poverty, cultural shifts, inadequate geriatric infrastructure, caregiver burden, and weak policy implementation. The study concludes that addressing elder neglect requires comprehensive policy reforms,community-based initiatives, and professional interventions. Recommendations are made for policymakers to strengthen the National Senior Citizens Centre Act (2017), for practitioners to adopt screening and intervention measures, and for communities to promote awareness, support networks, and dignity-driven care for older adults.