A neurologist and brain health advocate, Dr. Temitope Farombi, has called for greater protection of older persons, particularly those living with dementia and other cognitive disorders, warning that they remain highly vulnerable to abuse, neglect and exploitation. The call was made in a statement marking the 2026 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Call for Collective Responsibility
Farombi, the founder of Brain Health Neuro-critical and Rehabilitation Services in Ibadan, urged families, healthcare professionals, communities and governments to work together to safeguard the rights and dignity of senior citizens. She expressed concern that older adults with dementia often face increased risks of mistreatment because cognitive impairment may limit their ability to recognise abuse, report incidents or defend themselves.
According to the neurologist, protecting vulnerable seniors should be regarded as a collective responsibility rather than a burden borne solely by families. “As a neurologist and someone committed to brain health, I am particularly concerned about older adults living with conditions such as dementia, who are especially vulnerable to exploitation and neglect,” she said.
Changing Family Structures and Isolation
Farombi noted that older persons have traditionally occupied respected positions in society as custodians of wisdom, culture and communal values. However, she observed that changing family structures, economic pressures, urban migration and weak social support systems have left many elderly people increasingly isolated and vulnerable. She stressed that respect for older persons should not be confined to cultural expressions but must be demonstrated through deliberate actions that promote their welfare, protect their rights and ensure their inclusion in society.
Warning Signs and Legal Frameworks
The neurologist called on Nigerians to pay closer attention to the warning signs of elder abuse and neglect, while encouraging communities to create supportive environments where older adults can live safely and with dignity. She also advocated stronger legal frameworks and reporting mechanisms to address cases of elder abuse, stressing the need for effective enforcement of laws designed to protect senior citizens.
Investment in Age-Friendly Communities
Farombi urged policymakers to invest in age-friendly communities, healthy ageing programmes and social inclusion initiatives that improve the quality of life of older persons. She noted that caregivers should also receive greater support, given the emotional, physical and financial challenges often associated with caring for ageing family members.
“Every older person deserves to age with dignity, safety, respect and purpose,” she said. According to her, the way society treats its elderly population is a reflection of its values and commitment to justice and human dignity. Farombi called on citizens to speak out against injustice and mistreatment whenever they encounter it, adding that growing old should never mean becoming invisible, voiceless or vulnerable.
She said World Elder Abuse Awareness Day should serve as a reminder of the need for sustained action to protect older persons and ensure they continue to enjoy security, respect and meaningful participation in society.
