Social support services and the psychosocial wellbeing of the elderly in Nigeria: Implication for social work practice

Abstract

Social support is the perception and actuality that one is cared for, has assistance available from other people, and that one is part of a supportive social network. Social support is of particular importance for older people and is an essential requirement in old age. This study examined the social support services available for the psychosocial well-being of the elderly in Lagos State. A descriptive survey research design was used. The sample size was 96 older persons from the geriatric centres’. Findings revealed that majority 78% of the respondents received emotional support, 66% of the participants agreed that their children pay monthly allowances to their social worker/caregivers which are a form of tangible support that the participants had access to. . 83% of the respondents agreed to have access to television and radio which is a form of informational support. Also, majority of the elderly 72.9% were happy that there are people around them who love and care for them. The study concluded that support services should be provided for older persons and should be comparable with other developed countries and it recommended that social workers should expedite actions on the policy implementation to cater for the elderly people in the country.