Delali A. Dovie

By Delali A. Dovie

The study used a cross-sectional design to obtain data on communication between grandparents and their grandchildren. Quantitative data were collected from 360 selected men and women aged 50+, whilst qualitative data were collected from 30 individuals. The results demonstrate that the study participants (80%) mostly used the verbal mode of communication. The preferred languages for intergenerational communication are Dagaati, Dagbani, Dagomba, Dangbe, Ewe, Fante, Ga, Guan and Twi. However, the grandchildren prefer to speak the English language at school and at home. This makes it difficult for uneducated and less educated grandparents, who then resort to the use of signs and symbols in communicating with grandchildren. Intermarriages and the urban-rural divide have adverse impacts on grandparents’ communication with their grandchildren. Significantly, intergenerational communication facilitates the transmission of cultural norms and values from one generation to the other. The challenges encountered contextually encompass hearing problems, challenge of understanding what is said, not being fluent in spoken language, as well as physical barriers. Intergenerational communication can be improved through improving listening skills, learning to manage emotions, being open-minded, being empathetic, being receptive to feedback, etc. It is concluded that communication skills are vital to healthy intergenerational communication including intergenerational relationship building dynamics.

Part of the book: Intergenerational Relations

By Delali A. Dovie and Andrzej Klimczuk

Social inequalities abound worldwide. However, those social inequalities that encompass the lack of access to resources, including primary healthcare, are more prevalent at older ages in low- and middle-income countries, which is the focus of this chapter. This challenge has become critical due to the increasing population of older age. The design and implementation of key policy measures, including primary healthcare in low- and middle-income countries, is essential in reducing such social disparities. Access to primary healthcare is perhaps the principal determinant of social equality and/or equity for older people, which in turn supports achieving Sustainable Development Goals and comprehensive healthcare access.

Part of the book: Bridging Social Inequality Gaps - Concepts, Theories, Methods, and Tools [Working title]