Abstract
Globally, people experience different forms of fear; however, the fear of aging is a rising phenomenon that affects the individual and leaves a huge mark on their existence. There are incidents of abuse in older adults resulting in the indelible fear of aging in younger adults if left unattended. The purpose of this study is to link the fear of aging to older adult abuse in order to show the relevance and need for social work practice. This study was qualitative, using in-depth interviews with 30 young adults. We found that the aging process, which is traditionally seen as a blessing, is often associated with difficulties such as older adult abuses that tend to instill fear in younger adults thereby hampering the aging process. Results revealed that verbal abuse amidst other forms of abuse was the most common form of abuse among older adults. These abuses affect how young persons perceive the aging process, including fears associated with aging. The study recognizes the roles of social workers in adult protection programmes and also recommends the implementation of programmes that prevent older adult abuse.
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Ramsey-Soroghaye, B.N., Onalu, C. & Ikeorji, C.R. Older Adult Abuse and the Fear of Aging in Younger Adults in Nigeria: Implications for Social Work Practice. J. Hum. Rights Soc. Work 8, 245–252 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41134-023-00263-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s41134-023-00263-2