INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONS AND THE TREATMENT OF THE ELDERLY IN ZARIA CITY, KADUNA STATE

Abstract

Population ageing in low- and middle-income countries is accelerating without corresponding development of social welfare systems, leaving many older adults vulnerable to mistreatment. In Nigeria, especially Northern regions such as Zaria, economic hardship, weakened extended-family structures, and limited institutional support heighten the risks of elder abuse. This study examines the prevalence, forms, causes, and consequences of elder abuse in Zaria City, Kaduna State. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 123 older adults through questionnaires and five in-depth interviews. Findings indicate that while many elderly persons live with family members, a significant proportion experience various forms of abuse, including verbal abuse, physical abuse, emotional neglect, and financial deprivation. Poverty, lack of morality and proper socialisation, widowhood, childlessness, and health challenges were identified as major drivers of abuse. The consequences reported include depression, loneliness, social withdrawal, and deteriorating health. Although care is primarily provided by family members, economic strain often undermines caregiving capacity. Respondents highlighted the need for government intervention, enlightenment campaigns, improved home training, pension reform, and the establishment of old age homes. The study concludes that elder abuse in Zaria is shaped by socio-economic and structural vulnerabilities and calls for culturally sensitive policies that reinforce family support while expanding formal protection systems.