Sources of Support and Challenges for the Elderly in Teshie Township

Abstract

Elderly persons aged sixty years and above frequently find themselves in a situation that makes some of them less active within the society. Traditionally, because African societies emphasised communal living and reciprocity among family members, the provision of elderly care has been an ageless phenomenon. However, disintegration of the family support system and the inability of the public and the private sectors to adequately address the diverse social problems of the elderly, have placed them in poor and deplorable conditions. In view of this, the researcher sought to find out the sources of support and challenges for the elderly. The study adopted a qualitative approach and selected participants from Teshie Township, within the Ledzokuku/Krowor Municipal District of the Greater Accra Region. Face to face in-depth interviews aided by topic guide was the main data collection instrument. The study‟s findings reveal that though the participants receive support from various sources such as the family, religious and non- religious organisations and the government, the family remains the primary and major source of support for the elderly, even though the support is not as effective as it used to be. In light of this, the study recommends the extended family system should be strengthened to enable them provide for the support and care needs of the elderly. Also, there is the need to educate young people on ways to save and invest towards old age.