Relative Importance Index of Alternative Sources of Support in Later Life: Evidence from Community-Based Study of Older Adults in Oyo State, Nigeria.

Jacob W. Mobolaji, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
Akanni Ibukun Akinyemi, Obafemi Awolowo University
Bola Lukman Solanke, Obafemi Awolowo University
Oyeyemi Babalola, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife

This study investigates the patterns and determinants of access to alternative supports among older adults in South-Western Nigeria. The study is cross-sectional and utilized primary data of 1100 older adults aged 65+ selected using multi-stage sampling design. Relative importance index and multiple ordinary least square regression were used to examine the extent of access to alternative support and associated factors. The results indicated that a large proportion of older adults accessed economic (82%) and emotional (83%) support from multiple sources. However, a relatively small proportion accessed health care (56%) and domestic support (64%) from multiple sources. Out of the total score of 100, the average alternative support score of the participants was 31.37 (SD=15.21). Increased access to alternative support was significantly associated with having primary education (ß=3.46; p<0.05; 95% C.I=0.37–6.55) or no education (ß=4.06; p<0.05; 95% C.I=0.89–7.23), being affiliated to Islamic or Traditional religion (ß=4.35; p<0.001; 95% C.I=2.19–6.51) and having both self and children/family as the main sources of income (ß=4.72; p<0.05; 95% C.I=0.84–8.59). However, reduced access to alternative support was associated with oldest age group 80 years or over, widowhood, and rich wealth status. The study advocates for enhanced welfare supports from relevant stakeholders.

Keywords: Older Adults and Intergenerational Relations, Social network methods, Population Ageing, Qualitative data/methods/approaches

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