EDUCATION AS A CATALYST: ASSESSING THE INFLUENCE OF ADVOCACY COMMUNICATION ON PREVENTING ELDER ABUSE IN SOUTH-WEST NIGERIA

Abstract

Elder abuse poses a significant challenge in Nigeria, particularly as the population of individuals aged 65 and above is expanding at a faster rate compared to other age groups. Despite Nigeria's strong emphasis on family values, many young people today struggle to provide support and care for the elderly. These senior citizens have made substantial contributions to society during their working years but find themselves dependent on government social assistance due to their inability to work and care for themselves adequately. Unfortunately, the government's legislation and initiatives to address the needs of the aging population remain insufficient. The study focuses on exploring the educational impact of advocacy communication in eradicating elder abuse, specifically in South-West Nigeria. It aims to understand how advocacy efforts can contribute to raising awareness, promoting education, and implementing preventive measures against elder abuse within the region. The study underscores the crucial role of education through advocacy communication in combating elder abuse. It highlights the need for the South-West Nigerian government to prioritize the safety and well-being of all citizens, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or age, through educational initiatives that address elder abuse. The study recommends identifying the complexities associated with existing approaches, acknowledging the inadequacies of current legal and policy measures, and fostering coordinated interagency efforts to effectively prevent the proliferation of elder abuse issues in Nigeria. By incorporating these educational insights, including awareness campaigns, training programs, and community engagement, South-West Nigeria can establish a comprehensive framework to combat elder abuse and promote a society that values and protects its elderly population.