Citation

Sossou MA, Yogtiba JA. J. Elder Abuse Negl. 2015; 27(4-5): 422-427.

Affiliation

b Northeast Center , SUNY-Empire State College , Latham , New York , United States.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/08946566.2015.1091423

PMID

26362126

Abstract

Presented here is an overview of abuse and neglect of elderly women in Ghana, with particular emphasis on harmful traditional practices that disproportionately affect them and represent significant violations of their human rights. The unique situation of elderly women in Ghana is characterized by pervasiveness of poverty, illiteracy, widowhood, predominantly rural dwelling, and subjection to insidious cultural practices and superstitious beliefs. Increasing life expectancy of women and general population trends point to significant increases in numbers of elderly women in the country moving forward. Factors adversely affecting the welfare of elderly Ghanaian women include the breakdown of the extended family as a support system, and the waning of filial obligations in Ghanaian society. Cultural inhibitions and personal sense of shame prevent reporting and hence an accurate estimate and data on the extent of abuse among elderly women in Ghana. Pertinent legislation, programs and strategies, as well as work by nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that aims to address abuse and neglect among elderly women in Ghana, are included.

Language: en