Barriers to Social Inclusion among Older Adults with Disabilities in Imo State, Nigeria: A Descriptive Phenomenological Inquiry

Abstract

Discourses on successful aging in modern times have emphasized older people's active participation in community life as essential to their independence and sense of fulfillment. However, in some country contexts, the goal of inclusion for older adults with disabilities is not feasible. The aim of this research is to explore the barriers to social inclusion faced by older persons with disabilities in Imo State, Nigeria. We adopted Heidegger's hermeneutic phenomenological inquiry and non-probability sampling methods. We utilized snowballing and criterion-based purposive sampling techniques to recruit 19 study participants aged 60 years and older, using face-to-face in-depth interviews for data collection. In accordance with the hermeneutic phenomenological research criteria of reflection, immersion, and categorization, data were analyzed thematically. Our findings show a lack of social inclusion and participation among older adults with disabilities, citing personal (negative self-concept and self-isolation), social (negative perceptions and attitude towards disability), and structural (poor access to buildings, transportation, and technology) factors as barriers. Strategies to leverage these factors to facilitate inclusive participation of older persons with disabilities in Nigeria are recommended.

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“…For this reason, social assistance to the aged is being emphasised in this policy" (Federal Government of Nigeria, 2016). One is not sure if the implementation has started, but recent research with older adults by my students and myself from 2020 till date has not reported the existence of any government-driven functional social protection service for older adults in southeastern Nigeria Ekoh et al, 2023;Iwuagwu et al, 2023;Ene et al, 2022).…”

“…Maybe a halfway home or adult daycare centre could prevent such saddening events. Currently, our society appears not to be ready for permanent homes for older adults as research findings from some studies have shown (Eneh et al, 2022;Agbawodikeizu et al, 2023;Onalu et al 2023). However, given the problems and cases of abuse many older adults experience in the hands of family and paid caregivers it may not be a bad idea to start giving it some thought.…”