NATURE OF HEALTH CARE SEEKING BEHAVIOUR AMONG THE ELDERLY/AGED IN KOKONA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Elderly persons, particularly the frail older adult, have been the most significant consumer of health resources. This paper examines the nature of health care seeking behaviour among Elderly persons in Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A social survey design was adopted. A sample of 383 elderly persons aged 60 years and above vim drawn, using multi-stage sampling techniques including simple random, systematic sampling, clustered and purposive sampling techniques in the selection of electoral wards, towns/villages, main streets, houses, households and individuals. Prima/y and secondary data were utilized in the study. The primary data were generated through the use of questionnaires and in-depth interview. The questionnaires were analyzed quantitatively using descriptive statistics, such as frequency distribution, mean and percentage. The qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The results show that most of the elderly visit both orthodox and non-orthodox health care facilities. The paper recommends that there is need for Government, Non-governmental organizations, religious organizations and community/traditional leaders to create awareness on the negative/harmful effect of self-medication among the elderly persons. Also, Health care provision and advice should include education so as to increase awareness on good nutrition for the elderly, food supplements and adherence to good dietary regime.