Perceived Adequacy of Social Support Systems Available to Older Adults in Nnewi Town, Anambra State
CHAPTER ONE
Objectives of the study
The general objective of the study is to examine the perceived adequacy of social support systems available to older adults in Nnewi. While the specific objectives are as follows:
- To find out the available social supports for older adults in Nnewi
- To ascertain the extent to which level of education of the older adults affect their views on the adequacy of social support they received in Nnewi.
- To find out how gender affect views on the adequacy of social support received by older adults in Nnewi.
- To investigate the extent in which level of income affect views on the adequacy of social support received by older adults in Nnewi.
- To ascertain the relationship between availability of social support and well-being of older adults in Nnewi.
- To ascertain how the feeling of state of health of the older adults affects their views on the adequacy of social support they receive in Nnewi.
- To examine how the experience of elder maltreatment affect the views of older adults on the adequacy of social support they received in Nnewi.
- To find out how social support systems for older adults in Nnewi can be improved.
- To ascertain the implications of the findings for social work practice in Nigeria.
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1 Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain Perceived Adequacy Of Social Support Systems Available To Older Adults In Nnewi Town, Anambra State. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing Perceived Adequacy Of Social Support Systems Available To Older Adults In Nnewi Town, Anambra State.
Summary
This study was on Perceived Adequacy Of Social Support Systems Available To Older Adults In Nnewi Town, Anambra State. Nine objectives were raised which included: To find out the available social supports for older adults in Nnewi, to ascertain the extent to which level of education of the older adults affect their views on the adequacy of social support they received in Nnewi, to find out how gender affect views on the adequacy of social support received by older adults in Nnewi, to investigate the extent in which level of income affect views on the adequacy of social support received by older adults in Nnewi, to ascertain the relationship between availability of social support and well-being of older adults in Nnewi, to ascertain how the feeling of state of health of the older adults affects their views on the adequacy of social support they receive in Nnewi, to examine how the experience of elder maltreatment affect the views of older adults on the adequacy of social support they received in Nnewi, to find out how social support systems for older adults in Nnewi can be improved and to ascertain the implications of the findings for social work practice in Nigeria. A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from selected residents in Nnewi. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
In sum, the perceived adequacy of social support systems for older adults is a dynamic and complex issue influenced by a multitude of factors. By addressing these factors comprehensively and inclusively, societies can work towards ensuring that older adults receive the support and care they need to lead fulfilling lives in their later years. This is not only a matter of social responsibility but also a reflection of a society’s commitment to valuing and respecting the contributions of its older members.
Recommendation
- Comprehensive Needs Assessment: Conduct regular assessments to understand the evolving needs of older adults within the community. This can help tailor support services to match specific requirements, ensuring that they remain relevant and effective.
- Accessible Information: Create user-friendly, easily accessible information sources that educate older adults about available support services. Utilize various communication channels, including websites, hotlines, and community outreach programs, to disseminate this information.
- Personalized Support Plans: Develop individualized support plans for older adults based on their unique needs and preferences. This can involve the coordination of healthcare, social, and financial services to create a holistic approach to their well-being.
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