Articulation of the shallow inclusion and deep exclusion of older adults from the Ghanaian policy terrain
Articulation of the shallow inclusion and deep exclusion of older adults from the Ghanaian policy terrain

Summary/Abstract: The paper examines how the Ghanaian policy environment shapes access inequalitiesin well-being at old age, utilizing qualitative and quantitative datasets obtained from individualsaged 50+ (n = 230). The results show from older people (70%) that aged policyextensively excludes older adults. This denotes an incomprehensible policy domain thatcomprises the constitution, social protection policy, the National Health Interview Survey(NHIS) act, and the national ageing policy. The challenge is the mandatory retirementage is 60 years; while the compartmentalization of the NHIS free healthcare provisionis for those aged 70+, the Welfare Card (EBAN) provides access to social amenities, includingtransportation, to older people 65+ at a discount of 50%. However, older adultsare not a homogenous group. These policies address needs of the aged incoherently, withcurrency across the spheres of social exclusion and inclusion. However, a policy is a keyresource, the limitation of which may have dire repercussions, including ageism. This hasbroader implications for social, economic, political exclusion regarding multi-dimensionalfacets of healthcare and labor force participation. These are discussed in light of the threepillars of ageing social policy, namely healthcare, paid work, and social care. The paperargues that government policy is skewed towards children, youth, gender, and education,despite older adults’ increasing population, without an appreciation for concrete and determinatepolicies.

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