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• Tasks FG on national policies on ageing implementation
By Henry Uche
A lecturer at the Lagos State University (LASU) and leading gerontologist, Prof. Olanrewaju Emmanuel Ajiboye, has called on the Federal Government to urgently implement comprehensive national policies on ageing, warning that the country risks looming social and economic crises if the needs of its growing elderly population were ignored.
He stressed that proactive policy actions would determine whether millions of older Nigerians would age with dignity, security and access to adequate healthcare or face increased vulnerability in the years ahead.
Delivering the 121st edition of LASU inaugural lecture series, with the theme, ‘That We May Age Gracefully: A Social Gerontologist’s X-ray of Later Life,’ the professor of Sociology, Social Gerontology, Gender and Development Studies, implored Nigerians and the world at large to conscientiously take necessary steps to secure a dignified and financially stable old age, warning that neglecting long-term health, savings and lifestyle choices could result in avoidable hardship in later years.
He explained that ageing with dignity is not accidental but the outcome of informed planning, disciplined financial habits and proactive healthcare decisions. According to him, rising life expectancy, limited social security structures and increasing healthcare costs in Nigeria make early preparation critical, calling on individuals, families, the academic community and policymakers to prioritise retirement planning, preventive health practices and sustainable support systems for the elderly.
He called on individuals, families, communities, national and international as well as government and non-governmental organisations to rise up and take their rightful positions in ensuring graceful ageing of our older persons globally and in Nigeria, particularly.
“Growing old gracefully means embracing the ageing process with dignity, positivity and self-acceptance, rather than fighting it. It involves maintaining physical and mental health, adapting to life’s changes with resilience, fostering gratitude and living authentically, rather than focusing solely on maintaining a youthful appearance.
“Growing old should not be dreaded or something that should cause you unnecessary stress. Instead, it should make you happy as it can bring you a new sense of pleasure, if only you let it be. These are ways to find happiness in old age and enjoy growing old gracefully.”
The academic added that supporting older persons to age gracefully requires a multifaceted approach involving personal, familial, community and governmental action. Moreover, key strategies focus on promoting independence, ensuring safety, fostering social connection and providing necessary health and financial resources.
Admonishing individuals on self-care for ageing, the don encouraged Nigerians to prioritise physical activities like regular and gentle exercises like walking, yoga or water aerobics to maintain mobility, strength and balance.
“Consume balanced, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables and lean protein, and stay hydrated to support body function. Keep the mind active through reading, learning new skills or engaging in hobbies to reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
“Maintain social connections: Actively fight loneliness by staying in touch with friends and family as well as joining social groups. Proactively manage chronic conditions, and utilise assistive devices including glasses, hearing aids and walkers as needed. You must develop a positive mindset and acceptance,” he stated.
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He urged Nigerians to view ageing as a natural and rewarding process rather than a decline. “Be open and receptive.
Prioritise health and wellness, maintain emotional resilience, laugh and have a fun time, redefine your value, don’t be so introverted, instead share your burdens with those who love and care about you. This is not to say that you should worry about warts,” he said.
He charged fellow countrymen to pursue stimulating activities, brush up their knowledge, spend quality time with loved ones, touch people’s lives positively, maintain a positive life attitude and internal state of being confident, comfortable and contented as they advance in age.
“To family support and care, they should enable ‘ageing in place’ by modifying the home environment for safety. For instance, installing grab bars, improving lighting and removing tripping hazards, among others,” he added.
He advised that they prioritise consistent social engagement, assist with organising medications, managing appointments and using technology like telehealth or pill dispensers.
“Involve older adults in decisions regarding their care to maintain their dignity and independence. Support the caregivers, by recognising the stress on family caregivers and providing respite or shared care responsibilities”
To the community, he advocated for the establishment of senior support centres; a hub for social activities, nutritious meals and health screenings. He pushed for intergenerational programmes that create opportunities for the youths to engage with older persons through mentoring, digital literacy training and storytelling.
“Organize local volunteers to check on homebound elders, run errands or provide companionship. For a safe neighbourhood, implement age-friendly community designs, such as safe walking paths and accessible public transport. Ensure easy access to local shops, pharmacies and healthcare services,” he said
He called for strengthening of social security and pensions as well as ensuring financial security through robust, accessible pension schemes to alleviate poverty at old age.
“Subsidise healthcare and geriatric care. Make medical services, including specialised geriatric care affordable and reduce long wait times for older persons. We should implement national policies on ageing: Enact and enforce policies that guarantee the rights, dignity and active participation of older persons.
“We should invest in public infrastructure, provide accessible, safe and affordable housing and public recreational facilities for older adults. Support elder abuse prevention, establish protective services and helplines to prevent and address elder abuse. By implementing these, society can ensure that ageing is a phase of life marked by dignity, respect and continued contribution,” he maintained.
