Indigenous Elderly Care Practices in the Gadaa System of Borana Oromoo

Abstract

This study aimed at exploring the indigenous elderly care practices in the Gadaa System of Borana Oromoo. To achieve the intended purpose, we employed qualitative phenomenological research design. Participants were selected purposively in line with non-probability participant selection technique and their size decided at the point of data saturation. The study participants were Abbaa-gadaa (leader in Gadaa), community elders, elders‟ families and young community members. Data were collected through interview, observation and focus group discussion and analyzed thematically via successive coding, categorization and patterns of similar concepts. Triangulation, member checking and peer debriefing were applied to enhance trustworthiness of the data. The values of privacy, informed consent, confidentiality and anonymity were considered in this study. The finding revealed that the issue of the elderly is defined from chronological age, functional and cultural dimensions in relation to community values and beliefs. Also, elderly care is about respecting, helping, sharing factual information, and giving a good face to the elders. Further, the finding showed that elders are valued because they are custodians of Oromoo wisdom, and their roles are paramount in the community life. Additionally, the finding revealed that elderly face challenges due to degeneration of health, disability and disease, and poor social support which caused by human and natural disasters. Finally, the study recommends protecting indigenous support systems; community-based elderly care center should be established through collaborating with government organizations, NGOs and community members.