Ageism and coping strategies among the elderly in Calabar South Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria
Author(s): Chimaobi Okorie; Chukwudi Charles Ezikeudu; Ikechukwu J. Opara
Institute(s): 1 Department of Social Work, UNICAL; 2 Department of Criminology and Security Studies, UNICAL; 3 Department of Public Administration, UNICAL
Volume 13 / Issue 2
Abstract
This study examined ageism and coping strategies among the elderly in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to find extent internalized ageism, workplace ageism and interpersonal ageism exert significant influence on the coping strategies among the elderly in Calabar South. One null hypothesis was formulated; relevant literatures were also reviewed. The Intergroup contact theory and Social Identity Theory were adopted as the theoretical framework for the study. The cross-sectional survey design was adopted. Chi-square (X2) was used to test the hypotheses which revealed that internalized ageism exerts significant influence on coping strategies among the elderly. There is significant relationship between workplace ageism and coping strategies among the elderly. And that there exists a relationship between interpersonal ageism and seeking spiritual comfort among the elderly in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State. It was therefore recommended that; social workers should organize activities aimed at spreading awareness of different types of characteristics in the aging process. There should be public enlightenment so that people can adopt preventive behaviors, seek medical treatment, and no longer believe in negative stereotypes about inevitable declines in health due to aging.
Number of Pages: 14
Number of Words: 7306
First Page: 232
Last Page: 245