Social work with older persons living with dementia in Nigeria: COVID-19

ABSTRACT

This reprinted chapter originally appeared in Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 2020, 63[6-7], 638-641. (The following of the original article appeared in record 2021-00510-016.) A well-supported and appropriately equipped social worker is essential for reducing the damaging impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on older persons with dementia in Nigeria. It is also imperative for government and nongovernment organizations to redress the pending social needs of older persons with dementia such as the provision of psychosocial support delivered by social workers including meditation exercise delivered through electronic platforms and behavioral management supported through the telephone hotlines. Distress helplines can be established to serve older persons with dementia experiencing abuse. Individuals with parents that have dementia are encouraged to spend more time with them by taking up some caregiving duties while professional carers get some respite time for themselves. Meeting the care needs of older persons with dementia during the pandemic is an integral part of the fulfillment of fundamental human rights of the new United Nations Convention. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)