Sociocultural and Household Factors Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life of Older People in Ile-Ife
Keywords:
Older people, quality of life, socio-cultural, household, NigeriaAbstract
Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is an important indicator of the health status of older adults. The AgeWatch Index ranked the health status of older Nigerians one of the worst globally. Yet little is known about the factors contributing to this condition of the older population, especially in Ile-Ife. This study investigates the socio-cultural and household factors contributing to HRQOL of older adults in Ile-Ife. This cross-sectional study utilized quantitative data collected from 250 older persons aged 60 years or above, who were selected using stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Eligible respondents were interviewed on issues relevant to the study objectives, using a well-structured questionnaire. The outcome variable is the HRQOL while the explanatory variables were socio-cultural factors including religion, ethnicity, religiosity, rural/urban residence, cultural perceptions and roles; and household factors including marital status, family type, and living arrangements. Associations between the outcome and explanatory variables were examined using binary logistic regression. The result indicated that 54% of the respondents had good HRQOL, with variations across its domains: emotional (94%), physical (50.8%) and social well-being (12.4%). Good HRQOL was associated with being married (OR=2.46; p<0.05; 95% C.I.=1.29-4.69), living with immediate family (OR=2.43; p<0.05; 95% C.I.=1.03-5.75) or a polygamous family setting (OR=2.88; p<0.05; 95% C.I.=1.08-7.65), living in modern apartment (OR=2.61; p<0.01; 95% C.I.=1.45-4.69), and urban residence (OR=2.58; p<0.01; 95% C.I.=1.45-4.61). Female and pensionable older adults had higher odds of good HRQOL, unlike their economically active and culturally minded counterparts with lower odds. The findings highlight the need for comprehensive, multi-sectoral policies that address the financial, social, and healthcare needs of older people to promote healthy aging in Nigeria.
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