Multigenerational Residence and Perception of Old Age by Nigerian Youths

Abstract

In this study, I examined the influence of multigenerational residence on Nigerian youths' perception of old age, and the influence of perception of old age on the youths' expressed fears of aging. Results showed that youths residing in multigenerational households viewed old age more positively compared to youths who did not live in such households. There were also differences in the expressed fears of aging between youths who viewed old age positively versus negatively: the former feared dependency and death, whereas the latter feared isolation and physical and mental deterioration.