Glory Oluwaloni ODEKUNLE

This study investigates the prevalence and nature of elder abuse in Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria, and evaluates the effectiveness of social work intervention strategies. It explores the socio-economic, health, and cultural challenges faced by older adults, including financial insecurity, inadequate healthcare access, and social isolation. The erosion of traditional family support systems due to urbanization and migration has left many elderly individuals vulnerable to neglect and mistreatment, highlighting the urgent need for formal care structures and culturally sensitive interventions. Using a quantitative research approach, 280 questionnaires were distributed, with 266 valid responses analyzed through descriptive statistics using SPSS. The findings reveal that psychological abuse is the most prevalent form of elder mistreatment, and that cultural values significantly influence caregiving practices. While informal care remains central, the study emphasizes the importance of integrating cultural understanding into social work practice to enhance the quality of care and support for older adults. The study concludes that effective social work interventions such as advocacy, counseling, caregiver training, and community sensitization are essential to improving the well-being of older adults. It recommends collaborative efforts among stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations, to develop sustainable elder care systems. These insights contribute to policy development, professional training, and future research aimed at safeguarding the dignity and rights of Nigeria’s aging population.