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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Old age expectation as a factor influencing high demand for children among the Ijesas of south-western Nigeria: does number of children influence old age support?
Author:Akinyemi, Akanni
Year:2009
Periodical:African Population Studies
Volume:23
Pages:61-78
Language:English
Geographic term:Nigeria
Subjects:elderly
care of the aged
children
Abstract:This article examines expectations of the elderly concerning support from their children and the connection between old age expectations and demand for children. This was investigated in view of the traditional African belief that high fertility guarantees better future support for the elderly. To what extent does this belief still hold? Data were collected through a community survey camong 947 elderly respondents in Osun state, southwest Nigeria. The expectations of the elderly were examined with respect to financial care, health care, personal visitation, social status, and daily care. The results indicate that the expectations of elderly parents are quite high, but are not always met. Although children still are the main caregivers for their elderly parents, they may not be able to provide adequate support in all five respects. The article concludes that the number of children has no direct significance for old age support. Instead, empowerment of children (by proxy, at least one child abroad) has a high significance for old age support. Bibliogr., sum. in English and French. [Journal abstract, edited]
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