IMPACT OF MEDICAL NEGLECT ON THE ELDERLY IN EGOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMUNITY

ABSTRACT

This study aimed at impact of medical neglect on the elderly in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. Three research questions were raised to guide the study. The design adopted for this study is the survey research design. The sample consisted of 100 respondents which are basically parents and guidance. The research instrument was validated by the researcher’s supervisor. The test re-test method was adopted in testing the reliability of the instrument after which the research instruments were administered by the researcher himself. The data obtained were analyzed using the simple percentage. Findings revealed that emotional neglect on the wellbeing of the elderly in homes can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, low self-worth, emotional neglect can impact physical health and it lead to decreased motivation to engage in self-care activities or participate in social interactions. It was also revealed that impact of physical neglect on the wellbeing of the elderly in homes can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, and poor hygiene, feelings of abandonment, helplessness, low self-esteem, physical neglect can also erode trust in caregivers and institutions and breakdown in the therapeutic relationship and hindering the provision of effective care. Based on the findings, it was recommended that National Aged Care Advocacy Helpline must be made available in connection with the State or Territory-Based Advocacy Services. Thus, this is to promotes leadership through the introduction of elder abuse preventions and response units within state or territory departments, this with the practice orientation of preventing elder abuse with the duty toward changing the attitudes among the broader community and professionals and individuals whom interacts with elders, and mitigating the risk factors of the abuse. While each state has its own active laws implemented as at when due in relation to elder abuse and guidance, hence, Nigerian should learn from other developed countries for the sustenance, care and support of the senior citizens.