Chronological definitions and expectations of old age among young adults in Nigeria

Abstract

This article examines (1) chronological definition of old age and (2) expectations about old age held by young adults in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Primary data consist of structured interviews of 113 persons aged 18 to 35. These were supplemented by secondary analysis of data collected from an earlier survey of 432 old persons in Ile-Ife. In respect of chronological definitions of old age, the observed patterns of definition confirm general tendencies reported by previous researchers in Western societies. Concerning expectations about old age, the data points to the centrality of the place of offspring in the definition of a good old age. The article concludes by noting that while chronological definition of old age may show similarity of patterns across cultures and therefore assume the semblance of universal laws, old age expectations are much more culturally specific because of their interdependence with the beliefs, norms, values and other socioeconomic patterns extant in a particular society.