Climate Change and Effects:A Qualitative Experience of Selected Older Adults

The African Union 2063 Agenda confirms that Africa bears the brunt of the impact of climate change. It becomes more troublesome for older adults who are frail and vulnerable. Lack of eco-friendly policies and activities in Nigeria is a challenge. The study sampled 11 older adults aged over 65 years who dwell within the Nsukka campus of the University of Nigeria. A combination of purposive and snowball sampling techniques was adopted, while analysis was done thematically. Findings showed that the older adults reported health, economic, and social implications of climate change on them. They suggested the need for vanguards of ecological rights, promotion of eco-friendly culture for Nigeria, and promulgation of policies addressing climate change, so as to cushion the impacts of climate change on them. The roles “green-oriented” social workers could play are discussed.</p