Strategies for graceful ageing in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Generally, graceful ageing is the wish of most elderly. Unfortunately, little or no attention has been directed at individuals who have aged gracefully to tap from their reservoir of experiences; many of such have gone virtually unnoticed and unstudied.

Aims & Objectives: This study investigated the ageing and health challenges of some identified healthy-looking elderly, their strategies for coping and tips for graceful ageing. 

Methods: A total of two hundred and seventy two elderly men and women from the age of 70 upwards drawn from Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria willingly participated in the study. The subjects responded to a 36 - item researcherdesigned questionnaire eliciting responses on their health problems and coping strategies. The data gathered were analyzed using percentages and t-test statistical tools.

Results: Among the health problems of the respondents revealed in order of magnitude were: inability to see well, loss of teeth, mental confusion, decreased muscular efficiency, swelling and pains at the joints, stroke, and arthritis. Some of the coping strategies employed by the respondents include: going to the hospital for medical care, using hearing aid, use of joint balm, taking local herbs, using walking stick to support, moderate physical exercise and reduction of sugar intake.

Conclusion: Provision of some health and social welfare services such as spectacles, dentures, hearing aids, walking sticks, crutches and wheel chairs were suggested to enhance graceful ageing.