| dc.description.abstract | The study was designed to examine the experiences of the elderly people in
trying to access health care services, their common health complaints the
understanding and perception of their health problems. The study also tried
to find out what the elderly people consider as priority needs in the
improvement of their health.The study hypothesized that lack of knowledge about their old age health problems, their prevention and management makes the elderly people suffer
without at times seeking health care services. Lack of proper health facilities
and services tailored to meet the specific needs of the elderly in the rural
areas aggravates their health problems. Issues of high cost of medical
services, the long distance to health facilities, uncomfortable mode of
transport and the lack of drugs and other facilities to deal with age related
problems were key issues in the health of the elderly.
The study used both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to
collect primary data. Both probability and non-probability sampling designs
were used. The specific site of study was purposively sampled .A multistage
sampling technique was used to select the locations in the division.
Then four locations were randomly selected, from each of the selected
locations; two sub locations were again selected from which a sample for
study was obtained using the snowball method.
The study generated a wealth of information, ideas, opmions and
suggestions from the elderly people interviewed, The study clearly showed
that the elderly people experienced a lot of problems and challenges in as far
as their health and well being was concerned. The ability to address their
health needs was greatly limited by issues of access, availability of drugs
and other relevant health services, their income levels, issues of family and
social support. The chronic problem associated with aging process, their
limited knowledge and understanding of health problems, particularly ways
of preventing, managing and mitigating them were a major challenge for the
elderly people.
Some of the recommendations made after the study includes;Where problems of isolation, mobility and physical strength make it difficultto reach or access essential health services, the service providers should think of establishing mobile clinics or home care visiting programmes This could be done by sensitising the existing community groups, churches and other community networks that could easily provide care and support to the
elderly.
In health facilities, systems that prioritize or protect the most vulnerable
should be developed, e.g., designing health services that take into account
the physical conditions of the elderly, using priority queuing for the elderly
people.Provision of low cost treatment and support with particular reference to
problems of poor vision, dental problems and informing the elderly people
about and the management of certain chronic and age related ailments
afflicting them. | en |
