Understanding Elder Abuse Through an African Lens:

Jun 15
4 min read

Elder abuse is a critical issue that often goes unnoticed worldwide, including in Africa. While African cultures traditionally emphasize the importance of respecting and caring for elders, various challenges threaten this commitment. Elder abuse can take many forms, such as physical violence, emotional mistreatment, sexual abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. To truly understand elder abuse in Africa, it is essential to explore the cultural, social, and economic factors that contribute to this troubling reality.

The Cultural Landscape of Africa and Elders

In many African societies, elders are highly respected as custodians of wisdom and tradition. However, modernization and urban migration are putting pressure on these traditional family structures. According to IOM report (2020), approximately 21 million Africans have migrated to other African countries and settled there whilst another 19.5million live in countries outside of Africa and most of these migrants are youth who left their elderly parents behind. Youth migration has resulted in the neglect and abandonment of older adults, thus creating an environment where elder abuse can flourish.

In addition, the concept of filial piety and the rich cultural values that have historically protected the elderly are fast eroding. African youths are now adopting modern values that do not necessarily prioritize the care of elderly family members. This significant cultural shift is evident in the prevalence of elder abuse cases across the African continent. in 2017, the world health organisation reported that that one in six persons above the age of sixty had experiences some form of elderly abuse. thus indicating a worrisome trend.

Types of Elder Abuse in Africa

Elder abuse can manifest in several ways: namely:

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse involves causing harm through violent actions. In many African communities, the stigma surrounding mental illness can lead to violence against elderly individuals who display behaviors associated with cognitive decline.

Emotional and Psychological Abuse

Emotional abuse is often subtle yet can be more harmful than physical violence. It includes insults, threats, and social isolation. For example, elders may report feelings of worthlessness and despair after being belittled by family members or friends.

Financial Abuse

Financial exploitation usually targets vulnerable elders who may lack a clear understanding of their financial situation. According to the world health organisation, approximately 6.8% of individuals above 60 fall victim of financial elder abuse annually and this translates to one in every 15 older adults globally. The elderly population in Africa are often left at the mercy of family members who take on the roles of caregivers but use the opportunity to perpetuate financial exploitation, misappropriate funds or manipulate the older adults into signing over assets.

Neglect

Neglect refers to the failure to meet the basic needs of an elder. This can stem from financial difficulties or an inability to recognize the elder’s needs. For instance, overwhelmed family caregivers may inadvertently neglect an elder’s medical care or nutrition.

The Silence Surrounding Elder Abuse

A significant barrier to addressing elder abuse in Africa is the culture of silence. Victims often fear retaliation or feel ashamed to speak out about their circumstances. A study in Kenya revealed that over 70% of elder abuse cases go unreported, as individuals prioritize family reputation over personal well-being.

Cultural taboos may discourage open discussions about elder abuse, framing it as a family issue that should not leave the household. This stigma ensures that many victims remain trapped in abusive situations.

The Role of Legislation and Community Engagement

African countries must instituting laws to protect the elderly and ensure that the laws are enforced. Organisations like Fullcircle Geriatrics are helping to create awareness and offering public education about elder abuse, elder rights and available resources.

Community programs such as Seniors Time-Out that advocate for elder rights play a vital role in combating abuse. Training community leaders, family members and the caregivers to recognize signs of elder abuse can create proactive structures within society, fostering safer environments for older adults.

Intergenerational Living and Its Benefits

Encouraging intergenerational living arrangements can significantly diminish elder abuse. Families that maintain close ties across generations often report better care for their elderly members.

However, for intergenerational living arrangements to be successful, society must foster patience and understanding among its members. Young adults should be encouraged to interact with elders, sharing valuable experiences and wisdom that ensure mutual respect..

Caregiver intervention strategy

Caregiver intervention is the most promising elder abuse strategy. It requires that caregivers be provided with requisite training, competitive remuneration packages that are commensurate to effort and adequate social support structure for the caregivers themselves so they don't experience burn out.

Addressing Elder Abuse: A Call to Action

To effectively combat elder abuse in Africa, a comprehensive approach is required. Governments, NGOs, community leaders, and families must work together. Here are actionable steps that can be taken:

Community Awareness Campaigns: Use local media and workshops to spread awareness about elder abuse, its signs, and how to seek help.
Training for Caregivers: Offer training programs for caregivers that address the physical and emotional needs of elderly individuals, emphasizing dignity and respect.
Legal Aid Resources: Provide accessible legal support to help victims understand their rights and pursue actions against abusers.
Support Groups for Elders: Establish safe spaces for older adults to share their experiences and form supportive connections with their peers.
Engaging the Youth: Create programs designed to involve young people in elder care, fostering empathy and understanding and challenging harmful stereotypes.

A Path Toward Change

Understanding elder abuse through an African lens reveals the complex interplay of cultural values, societal norms, and family dynamics. Addressing this issue requires more than awareness; it calls for proactive measures at all societal levels. By fostering intergenerational relationships, building supportive communities, and empowering local populations, Africa can make significant strides toward ensuring its elderly population receives the dignity, respect, support and care that they deserve.

Together, we can reshape the narrative surrounding elder care and protect those who have been the guardians of our histories and cultures.