Consider How Different Countries Approach Aging
Consider How Different Countries Approach Aging As You Consider Dif
Consider how different countries approach aging. As you consider different countries, think about the following:
- Do older adults live with their children, or are they more likely to live in a nursing home?
- Are older adults seen as wise individuals to be respected and revered, or are they a burden to their family and to society?
Next, select two different countries and compare and contrast their approaches to aging.
Post and identify each of the countries you selected. Then, explain two similarities and two differences in how the countries approach aging. Be specific and provide examples. Use proper APA format and citation.
Paper For Above instruction
Aging practices vary significantly across different countries, influenced by cultural, social, economic, and policy factors. In this paper, I will compare and contrast the approaches to aging in Japan and Nigeria, two countries with markedly different cultural perceptions and social systems regarding older adults. By examining living arrangements and societal perceptions, I will highlight two similarities and two differences in their approaches to aging.
Japan is renowned for its aging population, with a significant proportion of its citizens over the age of 65. The Japanese society traditionally values respect for elders, emphasizing reverence and reverence for the wisdom and experience of older adults. In Japan, it is common for elderly parents to live with their children, supported by a strong sense of familial duty and social cohesion. The expectation that families will care for their aging members is deeply ingrained, although recent demographic shifts have seen an increase in institutional care options such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities (Kuehne et al., 2020). Despite a growing reliance on formal care services, societal respect for the elderly remains a core value.
In contrast, Nigeria’s approach to aging is rooted in extended family systems and community-based support. Nigerian culture places a high value on respect for elders, viewing them as custodians of cultural knowledge and wisdom. However, the living arrangements often differ from those in Japan. Many Nigerian older adults live with their extended family members or community members rather than in specialized care facilities. The economic challenges and limited social welfare infrastructure mean that family caregiving remains the primary mode of support for older adults. While societal respect persists, the economic reality often constrains the extent to which formal institutional care is accessible or preferred (Adegbola, 2018).
One similarity between Japan and Nigeria is their shared cultural respect for older adults. Both societies recognize and honor elders for their wisdom and experience, often involving elders in decision-making processes within families and communities. This respect contributes to perceptions of aging as a valued stage of life, with elders holding respected social roles (Beukes & Wessels, 2018). Another similarity is the reliance on family-based support systems. In Japan, despite the availability of institutional care, family caregiving remains prevalent; similarly, in Nigeria, the extended family continues to serve as the primary support network for older individuals.
However, notable differences exist. Firstly, the living arrangements differ; Japanese elders primarily live either with their children or in specialized care facilities, reflecting a hybrid model that balances familial support with formal healthcare infrastructure. Conversely, Nigerian elders predominantly reside within extended family units or communities, with less reliance on formal institutions due to economic and infrastructural limitations (Olaniyan et al., 2020). Secondly, societal perceptions of aging show divergence; while Japanese society generally regards elders as venerable and integral to social harmony, Nigerian youth may sometimes perceive elders as burdens, especially in economic contexts where caregiving demands strain family resources (Adegbola, 2018).
In conclusion, Japan and Nigeria exemplify contrasting yet somewhat similar approaches to aging—both valuing elders' wisdom and respect, yet differing in living arrangements and societal perceptions driven by cultural values and socioeconomic factors. These differences and similarities highlight the importance of cultural context in shaping aging experiences worldwide. Understanding these diverse approaches can inform better social policies and support systems tailored to the needs of aging populations within specific cultural frameworks.
References
Adegbola, A. A. (2018). The socio-cultural implications of aging in Nigeria. Journal of Aging & Social Policy, 30(2), 150-165.
Beukes, M., & Wessels, N. (2018). Cultural perceptions of aging: An African perspective. Journal of Gerontological Studies, 4(1), 23-34.
Kuehne, V., Wanka, A., & Ocha, A. (2020). Aging in Japan: Social and policy perspectives. Asian Journal of Gerontology and Geriatrics, 13(2), 89-101.
Olaniyan, O., Osunlade, O., & Oluwafemi, P. (2020). Living arrangements among elderly Nigerians: A sociocultural analysis. Nigerian Journal of Social Development, 7(3), 45-55.