Age identification among Yoruba aged.

This study examined the influence of chronological age, number of grandchildren, and life satisfaction on age identification of elderly Yoruba residents in Ile-Ife. The sample consisted of 440 randomly selected noninstitutionalized persons, age 55 and older. Data were gathered through structured interviews. The results revealed (a) a strong positive relationship between chronological age and age identification, (b) a weak but significant relationship between number of grandchildren and age identification, although this relationship disappears when chronological age is controlled, and (c) no significant relationship between age identification and life satisfaction. Differences between these findings and those reported for Western samples reflect cultural differences between Yoruba and Western societies.