The roles and capacities of social workers in the lives of older adults seeking healthcare and their caregivers in Ghana

"Who doesn't Have Challenges? I Have a Lot of Challenges": Exploring the Challenges and Coping Strategies of Neglected Older Adults in Ghana

The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges neglected older adults experience and the strategies they employ to cope. A Phenomenological qualitative approach was adopted. Employing criterion purposive sampling, 12 older adults were recruited from a community in Winneba in Ghana. A semi-structured interview guide following focus group discussion was used to explore the challenges and the coping strategies of older adults. Thematic data analysis making use of descriptive coding was employed. The study revealed that neglected older adults experience financial challenges, health issues, and social isolations. They lacked decent accommodation, nutritional food and were prevented from determining the kind of food they want to eat. These neglected older adults survived by adopting internal and external coping strategies. This study offers a better understanding of the needs of neglected older adults and the nature of their coping strategies. It is recommended that financial and social care should be available for older adults.