COMMUNITY RESPONSES TO AGEISM: TOWARDS AN AGE- INCLUSIVE SOCIETY IN IGABI, KADUNA STATE

Abstract

Ageism, a pervasive global challenge, significantly impacts older adults in Nigeria,
yet remains understudied in specific local contexts. This study investigates how social exclusion
and limited healthcare access perpetuate ageism among older adults in Igabi, Kaduna State, guided
by Social Exclusion Theory and the Structural Ageism Perspective. A mixed-methods approach
was employed, combining a survey of 50 older adults with in-depth interviews and focus group
discussions involving eight community stakeholders. Findings reveal that low community
participation and exclusion from decision-making roles strongly correlate with experiences of
ageism. Concurrently, healthcare barriers including unaffordable costs, prolonged waiting times,
and a critical lack of geriatric services heighten perceptions of discriminatory treatment.
Qualitative narratives illustrate how older adults are sidelined in family and community affairs and
neglected within healthcare settings. The study concludes that ageism in Igabi is not merely an
individual bias but is deeply embedded in structural and cultural processes that systematically
marginalize the elderly. To combat this, integrated interventions are recommended, focusing on
enhancing community participation, improving access to affordable and age-friendly healthcare,
and challenging ageist stereotypes through targeted awareness campaigns.