Problems of the Aged in Nigeria: The Issue of Housing and Health Care in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

The issue of the aged particularly in Nigeria has become a major concern to the government in particular and society in recent years. But little or no policies have been put in place to reduce the burden on this people (aged). The study sought to investigate into the healthcare and housing, issues of the aged, and examine the various policies meant to support their wellbeing in Calabar Metropolis. Purposive sampling technique was adopted for the selection of the study area while accidental was used in locating the respondents. Interview guide and questionnaire were used for the collection of data from the respondents. The statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS, 2007 version) was then used for the analysis of the data. Seventy-eight percent of the aged either live in rented or family house. About 58 percent of the aged suffer from a multiple or more than one illness while 24 percent had bodily/joint pains. Beside pension scheme which is documented in the National Aged Policy and largely skewed towards those in the formal employment, this paper revealed that there was no other policy directly made to support the aged. Institutions such the Social Welfare and other NGOs also have no clear and direct policy towards supporting all aged. This paper however recommended that; a fund be put in place called ‘aged fund' which would seek to ensure the aged wellbeing. The age at which one qualifies for a free or subsidized premium payment of the national health insurance scheme should be reduced to 65 years. Long term housing policy be established to ensure that every worker have his/her own house before reaching the retirement age.