Abstract
The activities of insurgent groups like Boko-Haram have led to the displacement of millions of Nigerians, including a large population of older people who are made more vulnerable to new and old challenges associated with aging. Our study used qualitative art-based graphic elicitations and interviews to collect data on older people’s experiences of abuse while living in displacement in Abuja, Nigeria. The data were analysed thematically, and our findings revealed that displacement increased abuse, and the vulnerability of co-migrant family members led to widespread neglect. This abuse caused perceived fear and anxiety, increased health problems, risk of destitution and normalization of abuse. We concluded by recommending the provision of education and cultural re-orientation by gerontological social workers to increase identification, reporting, and intervention, and the adoption of the National Policy on Internal Displacement, which guarantees the protection and social security of older people in displacement.
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02 November 2022
A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12062-022-09393-3
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Ekoh, P.C., Okah, P., Onalu, C. et al. Experiences of Abuse and Neglect of Older Adults in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp, Lugbe, Abuja, Nigeria. Population Ageing 15, 943–957 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12062-022-09388-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12062-022-09388-0