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Research Article | | Peer-Reviewed

Nutritional Practices, Quality of Life and, Health Status of Elderly in Rural Communities in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria

Ebenezer Obi Daniel*,  Omoniyi Isaac Olanrewaju,  Oluseyi Oludamilola Olawale,  Ahmed Mamuda Bello,  Michael Olabode Tomori,  Michael Avwerhota,  Israel Olukayode Popoola,  Adebanke Adetutu Ogun,  Aisha Oluwakemi Salami,  Olukayode Oladeji Alewi,  Taiwo Aderemi Popoola,  Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo
Published in World Journal of Public Health (Volume 9, Issue 2)
Received: 2 June 2024    Accepted: 20 June 2024    Published: 26 June 2024
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Abstract

The study investigates the nutrition practices, health status, and quality of life of elderly individuals in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. It involves a descriptive cross-sectional design with 346 elderly participants aged 60-90, systematically sampled from six rural communities. Data were collected via structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires on demographics, medical and lifestyle histories, daily activities, health-seeking behaviors, food consumption, and nutritional care practices. Nutritional status and high blood pressure were assessed using anthropometric indices and a digital sphygmomanometer. Key findings indicate that 37.6% of participants were aged 60-64. Significant differences were noted between sexes in socio-demographic variables. Alcohol consumption, tobacco sniffing, and cigarette smoking were reported by 15.3%, 11.0%, and 4.6% respectively. Additionally, 23.1% were on hypertensive drugs and 20.1% were confirmed diabetics. Meal frequency varied, with 16.5% eating less than three times daily and 59.2% eating three times daily. Lunch (58.0%) and breakfast (36.6%) were the most skipped meals, and 15% ate outside the home. Dietary diversity scores revealed 66.5% with medium and 27.5% with good diversity. Significant gender differences were observed in dietary diversity and consumption patterns of cereals, roots, tubers, and fruits. Nutritional care practices and daily living activities scores showed 90.2% and 80.6% with fair practices and good activity scores, respectively, while 46.2% demonstrated good health-seeking behavior. Common health complaints included body and joint pain. Central obesity rates were 33.8% (WC), 30.3% (WHtR), and 30.6% (WHR). Elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure were found in 36.7% and 23% of participants, respectively. Only 31.2% reported a good quality of life. Significant positive correlations were found between nutritional status, quality of life, nutritional care practices, and functionality. Malnutrition, poor quality of life, and inadequate care practices among the elderly in rural areas highlight a public health challenge requiring targeted interventions.

Published in World Journal of Public Health (Volume 9, Issue 2)
DOI 10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21
Page(s) 206-224
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2024. Published by Science Publishing Group
Previous article
Keywords

Nutritional Practices, Quality of Life, Health Status, Elderly in Rural Communities

1. Introduction
The aging process is inherently linked with a decline in functional ability and quality of life
[1]
. As people age, there is a notable deterioration in physical functions such as aerobic capacity, muscle strength, and postural balance, which impairs their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL)
[2]
. Furthermore, the decline in functional capacity in older adults is a significant predictor of negative health events, independent of the presence and number of chronic diseases
[3]
.
Aging is often accompanied by an increased risk of chronic conditions like respiratory diseases, arthritis, stroke, depression, and dementia
[4]
. These conditions, along with factors like tooth loss, poor socio-economic status, and limited mobility, can negatively impact appetite and the ability to eat, leading to poor nutritional status. Older adults also exhibit reduced muscle strength, memory, and cognitive function, primarily due to neural cell loss in critical brain regions and decreased activity in monoaminergic and cholinergic pathways
[5-7]
.
A strong relationship exists between nutritional status and individual health. Good nutritional status is crucial for maintaining health in older adults as it impacts nearly all human organs and systems. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines quality of life as individuals' perception of their position in life within the context of their culture, value systems, goals, expectations, standards, and concerns
[8]
. This broad concept encompasses physical health, independence, psychological state, social relationships, personal beliefs, and environmental factors
[8]
.
Elderly people are particularly vulnerable due to factors like loneliness, loss of interest in life, and lack of support, especially after the death of a partner or in the absence of family or friends
[9]
. They often require assistance with selecting, buying, and preparing food, as well as performing other daily activities. Changes in family structures mean many elderly individuals now live alone, and loneliness is linked to decreased food intake and poor nutritional status
[9]
. Poor social and family support systems can lead to abuse and neglect of the elderly by family and community members, especially in rural areas where most older people reside and have no income to meet their daily needs, further diminishing their interest in food.
Adequate nutrition is essential for the proper functioning of the human body at all ages, but its importance is even more pronounced in old age. Aging often brings health challenges and decreased functional capacity, affecting an individual's sense of well-being. The goal of health care for the elderly may not be complete freedom from illness but rather the ability to maintain a good quality of life despite health challenges
[10, 11]
.
Poor nutritional care among the elderly may result from inadequate protein and energy intake and age-related changes in dietary habits. Research on the nutritional status of the elderly in Nigeria has shown high prevalence of starvation and a triple burden of malnutrition in some cases
[12]
. Low muscle strength due to deficiencies in micro and macronutrients is often associated with hyper catabolism from multiple health conditions, posing significant risks for frailty
[13]
.
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to health challenges compared to younger populations. However, public health interventions have primarily focused on other vulnerable groups such as children under five, women of childbearing age, pregnant women, and female adolescents
[14]
. There is a scarcity of quality data on the interplay between nutritional care practices, quality of life, and health status of the elderly in Nigeria. Therefore, it is imperative from a public health perspective to investigate these factors to understand their synergy and improve the health and well-being of the elderly.
2. Method
2.1. Study Design
The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design to investigate nutrition care practices, quality of life, and health status among the elderly in the rural community of Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. This design was chosen due to its effectiveness in providing a snapshot of the current health and nutrition status of the elderly population at a specific point in time. It allows for the collection of data on various variables simultaneously, making it suitable for assessing relationships and drawing conclusions about the prevalence and distribution of health outcomes and related factors within the study population.
2.2. Sampling Technique
A multistage sampling technique was employed to select participants for the study. The initial stage involved selecting six out of the eleven wards in Owo Local Government Area through random sampling. Subsequently, one rural community was randomly selected from each of these six wards. Systematic sampling was then used to select sixty respondents from each community, resulting in a total sample size of 400 elderly individuals aged between 60 and 90 years. This sampling technique ensured a representative sample of the elderly population in the study area, allowing for the generalization of findings.
2.3. Data Collection
Data collection was conducted using interviewer-administered questionnaires, which comprised six sections covering various aspects of the study:
1. Section A: Captured socio-demographic characteristics such as age, sex, marital status, occupation, educational qualification, sources of income, and household assets.
2. Section B: Focused on nutritional care practices and dietary diversity, utilizing the FAO's minimum dietary diversity questionnaire.
3. Section C: Included questions on medical history, lifestyle, activities of daily living (ADL), and health-seeking behaviors, employing the Katz index of independence.
4. Section D: Assessed health-related quality of life (HRQOL) using an adapted version of the WHOQOL instrument.
5. Section E: Examined health status, including chronic health conditions and blood pressure measurements in accordance with WHO guidelines.
6. Section F: Recorded anthropometric measurements such as height, weight, waist and hip circumference, and mid-upper arm circumference to determine nutritional status.
The questionnaires were pretested and validated to ensure reliability and accuracy of the data collected. Additionally, four research assistants fluent in the local Owo dialect were recruited and trained on data collection techniques and the use of the study instruments. They conducted the interviews with sufficient privacy to ensure the comfort and cooperation of the respondents.
2.4. Ethical Considerations
Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Public Health Department of the National Open University of Nigeria, Akure Study Centre. A letter of approval was also secured from the Chairman of Owo Local Government. Informed consent was obtained from each study participant after explaining the objectives and procedures of the study. Participants were assured of confidentiality and anonymity, and their participation was entirely voluntary. Those who agreed to participate signed a consent form before the interview commenced. The study adhered to ethical guidelines to protect the rights and well-being of the participants. All interviews were conducted with respect and sensitivity to the participants' cultural and personal circumstances. The research assistants were trained to handle any ethical issues that might arise during the data collection process. Additionally, measures were taken to ensure that participants could withdraw from the study at any point without any repercussions. This ethical approach ensured that the study was conducted in a manner that respected the dignity and autonomy of the elderly participants while collecting valuable data for improving their health and nutrition outcomes.
3. Result
3.1. Socio-demographic Characteristics of the Respondents
Table 1 and table 2 express the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents. A total of 346 respondents participated in the study with an average age of 72 ± 2.4 years. About two-thirds (37.6%) of the respondents were within the age of 60-64-years. More than half (59%) of the respondent were female while (41%) were male. Most of the respondents were still married (61.8%) as at the time of data collection while 33.8% of them had already lost their spouse. Christianity (84.4%) and Yoruba (82.6%) was the predominant religion practiced and ethnicity of the respondents. Although, Igbos (8.7%) and Ebira (3.5%) were also found among the participants. As at the time of data collection, 78.6% of the respondents were living with their family members of which 59.5% were in their own personal houses. This study includes 23.9% retirees, 31% traders and 16.8% farmers. More than half (58.1%) of the respondents still depend on their Personal effort/work for income to survive while 15.3% sustained on pension arrears from Government while only 22.8% received support from their children. On education attainment, 23.1% had no former education, 35% didn’t study beyond primary school while only 19.7% had post-secondary certificate, and 22.3% had secondary education certificate. Well water was the most source of water to most of the respondent, about 65.9% used well water while 21.1% were able to afford Borehole.
Table 1. Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the Subjects.

Variable

Male

Female

Total (%)

X2

P value

Age (years)

60-64

52 (36.6)

78 (38.2)

130 (37.6)

19.710

0.001

65-70

22 (15.5)

34 (16.7)

56 (16.2)

71-74

19 (13.4)

43 (21.1)

62 (17.9)

75-80

28 (19.7)

28 (13.7)

56 (16.2)

81-90

21 (14.8)

21 (10.3)

42 (12.1)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 ((100.0)

346 (100.0)

Marital status

Married

115 ((81.0)

99 (48.5)

214 (61.8)

43.218

0.000

Widow/Widower

21 (14.8)

96 (47.1)

117 (33.8)

Separated

4 (2.8)

2 (0.9)

6 (1.7)

Divorced

2 (1.4)

7 (3.4)

9 (2.6)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Religion

Christianity

128 (90.1)

164 (80.4)

292 (84.4)

6.632

0.157

Islam

12 (8.4)

32 (15.7)

44 (12.7)

Traditionalist

1 (0.7)

2 (0.9)

3 (0.9)

Brotherhood

1 (0.7)

0 (0.0)

1 (0.3)

Jehovah witness

0 (0.0)

6 (2.9)

5 (1.7)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Type of housing

Personal

92 (64.8)

114 (80.3)

206 (59.5)

6.641

0.084

Rented

50 (35.2)

83 (58.4)

133 (38.4)

Family house

0 (0.0)

7 (3.4)

12 (3.5)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Ethnicity

Yoruba

109 (76.8)

177 (86.8)

286 (82.6)

13.157a

0.011

Igbo

17 (11.8)

13 (6.4)

30 (8.7)

Hausa

4 (2.8)

3 (1.5)

7 (2.0)

Ebira

6 (4.2)

6 (2.9)

12 (3.5)

Edo

6 (4.2)

5 (2.5)

11 (3.2)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Living arrangement

Alone

15 (10.6)

16 (7.8)

31 (9.0)

7.593

0.055

With family members

115 (81.0)

157 (77.0)

272 (78.6)

Relatives

12 (8.4)

31 (15.2)

44 (12.4)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)
Significant at p < 0.05
Table 2. Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the Subjects.

Variable

Male

Female

Total (%)

X2

P value

Education attainment

None formal education

35 (24.6)

45 (22.1)

80 (23.1)

6.649

0.156

Primary school

50 (35.2)

71 (34.8)

121 (35.0)

Secondary school

23 (16.2)

54 (26.5)

77 (22.3)

Post-Secondary

34 (23.9)

34 (16.7)

68 (19.7)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Occupation

None

9 (6.3)

24 (11.8)

33 (9.5)

50.536

0.001

Retired

40 (28.2)

43 (21.1)

83 (23.9)

Trading

22 (15.5)

88 (43.1)

110 (31.8)

Artisan

43 (30.2)

18 (8.8)

61 (17.6)

Farming

28 (19.7)

30 (14.7)

58 (16.8)

civil servant

0 (0.0)

1 (0.5)

1 (0.3)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Source of income

Personal effort/work

85 (59.9)

116 (56.9)

201 (58.1)

22.118

0.001

Support from children

20 (14.1)

59 (28.9)

79 (22.8)

Gift from others

3 (2.1)

10 (4.9)

13 (3.8)

Pension

34 (23.9)

19 (9.3)

53 (15.3)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Source of water

Personal Borehole

41 (28.9)

32 (15.7)

73 (21.1)

16.494

0.006

River/Lake/Stream

6 (4.2)

16 (7.8)

22 (6.4)

Well

89 (62.7)

139 (68.1)

228 (65.9)

Community supply

6 (4.2)

17 (8.3)

23 (6.6)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Number of dependants

No response

14 (9.8)

22 (10.8)

36 (10.4)

6.401

0.041

less than 3

64 (45.1)

117 (57.4)

181 (52.3)

3 or more

64 (45.1)

65 (31.9)

129 (37.3)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)
Significant at p < 0.05
3.2. Socio-economic Status of the Respondents Using Household Durable Goods
From the table, it was clear that most of the respondent (92.5%) owns a Radio, (90.8%) had a mobile phone, television was owned by 82.9% of the respondents while cushion chair set, fan, kerosene stove, pressing iron, video CD player and kerosene stove were owned by 73.7%, 70.8%, 70.8% 64.5%, 64.2% and gas cooker 62.7% of the respondent respectively. Two-thirds (33.5%) of the participants could boost of generator. The least own household items are bicycle (4.9%), computer set (8.7%) air condition (9.0%), Motorcycle (20.5%), and motorcar (25.7%) in that order. Only 61.8% of the participants had their own personal house.
Table 3. Socio-economic status of the respondents using household durable goods.

Household item

Male

Female

Total (%)

X2

P value

Radio

132 (38.2)

188 (54.3)

320 (92.5)

0.077

0.476

Television

130 (37.6)

157 (45.4)

287 (82.9)

12.597

0.000

Video/CD player

104 (30.1)

118 (34.1)

222 (64.2)

8.631

0.002

Bicycle

11 (3.2)

6 (1.7)

17 (4.9)

4.138

0.038

Mobile phone

135 (30.0)

179 (51.7)

314 (90.8)

5.353

0.015

Motorcycle

55 (15.9)

16 (4.6)

71 (20.5)

48.980

0.000

Kerosene stove

87 (25.1)

158 (45.7)

245 (70.8)

10.608

0.001

Cushion chair set

115 (33.2)

140 (40.5)

255 (73.7)

6.597

0.007

Gas cooker

94 (27.2)

123 (35.5)

217 (62.7)

1.248

0.158

Computer set

12 (3.5)

18 (5.2)

30 (8.7)

0.015

0.533

Fan

113 (32.7)

132 (38.2)

245 (70.8)

8.958

0.002

Air condition

9 (2.6)

22 (6.4)

31 (9.0)

2.029

0.108

Refrigerator

61 (17.6)

54 (15.6)

115 (33.2)

10.256

0.001

Freezer

43 (12.4)

54 (15.6)

97 (28.7)

0.603

0.256

Pressing iron

112 (32.4)

111 (32.1)

223 (64.5)

21.865

0.000

Motor car

48 (13.9)

41 (11.8)

89 (25.7)

8.230

0.003

House

94 (27.2)

120 (34.7)

214 (61.8)

1.929

0.101

Generator

62 (17.9)

54 (15.6)

116 (33.5)

11.103

0.001
Significant at p < 0.05
3.3. Medical History and Lifestyles Pattern of the Respondents
Table 4 presents the medical history and lifestyles pattern of the respondents. Twenty-three-point one percent (23.1%) of the respondents were on hypertensive drug, similarly, 21.1% had diabetes mellitus while 15.3% 11.0% and 4.6% drinks alcoholic beverage, use tobacco and smoke as at the time of data collection. This act was predominantly among male participants. Engagement in physical exercise was less than fifty percent of the respondents. More than half were not involved in exercise.
Table 4. Medical history and lifestyles pattern of the Respondents.

Variable

Male

Female

Total (%)

X2

P value

On hypertensive drug

Yes

25 (17.6)

55 (29.0)

80 (23.1)

21.069

0.016

No

117 (82.4)

129 (71.0)

231 (76.9)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Confirmed diabetic

Yes

28 (19.7)

45 (22.00)

73 (21.1)

18.231

0.013

No

114 (80.3)

159 (78.0)

273 (78.9)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Drinks alcohol

Yes

44 (30.0)

9 (4.4)

53 (15.3)

45.580

0.000

No

98 (70.0)

195 (95.6)

293 (84.7)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Smoke cigarrette

Yes

16 (11.3)

0 (0.0)

16 (4.6)

24.100

0.001

No

126 (88.7)

204 (100.0)

330 (95.4)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Takes tobacco

Yes

17 (12.0)

21 (10.3)

38 (11.0)

0.241

0.373

No

125 (88.0)

183 (89.7)

313 (89.0)

Total

142 (41.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Engaged in exercise once in week

Yes

83 (58.5)

71 (34.8)

154 (44.5)

18.955

0.003

No

59 (41.5)

133 (65.2)

192 (55.5)

Total

142 (41.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)
Significant at p < 0.05
3.4. To Assess the Nutritional and Care Practices of the Elderly
Table 5 shows the nutritional practices of the respondents. A total of 57 (16.5%) of the participants eat less than three meals per day while 205 (59.2% ate more than 3 times a day, more than 50% of the respondent skipped meals. Lunch was the most skipped meal of the day with 58.0% skipped followed by breakfast 36.8% while only 5.2% failed to consume their dinner and skipped it. Eighty-two-point six percent nine (86.9%) of the respondent consumed food made at home while less than 15% of the participants consumed outside the home.
Table 5. Nutritional practices of the Respondents.

Variable

Male

Female

Total (%)

X2

P value

Number of meals taken in a day

Less than < 3 tmies

22 (15.5)

35 (17.1)

57 (16.5)

1.272

0.736

3 times

89 (62.7)

116 (56.9)

205 (59.2)

Greater than > 3 times

31 (21.8)

53 (25.9)

84 (24.3)

Total

142 (41.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Normal skip meals

Yes

74 (52.1)

100 (49.0)

174 (49.9)

15.020

0.001

No

68 (47.9)

104 (51.0)

172 (50.1)

Total

142 (41.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

If yes, what meal (n=174)

Breakfast

44 (59.5)

20 (20.0)

64 (36.8)

30.947

0.001

Lunch

25 (33.8)

76 (76.0)

101 (58.0)

Dinner

5 (6.8)

4 (4.0)

9 (5.2)

Total

74 (100.0)

100 (100.0)

174 (100.0)

Where meals were taken

Home

124 (87.3)

177 (86.8)

301 (86.9)

1.148

0.563

Outside home

18 (12.7)

27 (13.2)

45 (13.1)

Total

142 (41.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)
Significant at p < 0.05
3.5. Food Consumption Pattern of the Respondents
Table 6 below shows the food consumption pattern of the respondents. Considering food consumption frequency of three or more times a week, energy food sources were well consumed with 58.1%, 64.2% and 53.8% consuming cereals, tubers and oil/fats respectively. Protein foods such as meats, fish and legumes were consumed by 63.3%, 52.9% and 51.9% respectively. However, egg and milk were consumed by 26.9% and 26.8% respectively. Vegetables were consumed by 68.8% but fruits were consumed by 44.3%.
Table 6. Food consumption pattern of the respondent.

Food groups

None

< 3 times

3-4 times

≥ 5 times

Freq (%)

Freq (%)

Freq (%)

Freq (%)

Cereals

19 (4.5)

157 (37.4)

134 (31.9)

110 (26.2)

Roots and tubers

19 (4.5)

131 (31.2)

177 (42.1)

93 (22.1)

Vegetables

25 (6.0)

106 (25.2)

137 (32.6)

152 (36.2)

Fruits

128 (30.5)

106 (25.2)

97 (23.1)

89 (21.2)

Meats

35 (8.3)

119 (28.3)

134 (31.9)

132 (31.4)

Egg

247 (58.8)

60 (14.3)

70 (16.7)

43 (10.2)

Fish and sea food

105 (25.0)

93 (22.0)

109 (26.0)

113 (26.9)

Legumes

79 (18.8)

123 (29.3)

124 (29.5)

94 (22.4)

Milk and milk products

248 (59.0)

59 (14.0)

51 (12.1)

62 (14.8)

Oil fat or butter

91 (21.7)

103 (24.5)

114 (27.1)

112 (26.7)

Sugar or honey

198 (47.1)

70 (16.7)

77 (18.3)

75 (17.9)

Spices and condiments

119 (28.3)

101 (24.0)

82 (19.5)

118 (28.1)
3.6. Dietary Diversity of the Respondents: Consumption of Food Within 24 Hours
Table 7 shows that the majority (81.8%) and 80.3% of the respondent consumed food from cereal and root/tubers staples respectively. Seventy-one-point one percent (71.1%) and 81.2% of the respondent consumed fruits and vegetables respectively within 24 hours prior to the survey. 70.5% from Dark green leafy vegetables while protein such as Fish/seafoods, meat and egg amount to 76.0%, 48.6% and 41.0% respectively. Milk/milk product while 50.9% consumed food from other fruits and vegetables. About 37.7% consumed milk and milk product (37.6%) was the second least food group consumed by the respondent while sugar/honey was the least consumed food group among the respondent in the study and 75.5% ate food from legume. Nearly 90% did consumed Oil, fats and butter. The dietary diversity score of the individual subjects ranged from 0 to 12. About 6.1% of the participants had low DDS (0-3) while 66.5% had average DDS (4-7), 27.5% had High/Good DDS that is, and they consumed more than 7 food groups within 24 hour prior to this investigation. Significant difference was observed (p < 0.05) between the male and female participant in dietary diversity score (P=0.002), in consumption of cereals (p=0.008), Roots/tubers (p=0.002) as well as fruits (p=0.006).
Table 7. Dietary diversity of the respondents: Consumption of food within 24 hours.

Food groups

Male =142 Yes (%)

Female =204 Yes (%)

Total = 346 (%)

X2

P-value

Cereals

125 (36.1)

158 (45.7)

283 (81.8)

6.289

0.008

Roots/tubers

122 (35.3)

156 (45.1)

278 (80.3)

4.730

0.020

Vegetables

113 (32.7)

168 (48.6)

281 (81.2)

0.423

0.304

Fruits

90 (26.0)

156 (45.1)

246 (71.1)

6.982

0.006

Meats

69 (19.9)

99 (28.6)

168 (48.6)

0.000

0.539

Eggs

61 (17.6)

81 (23.4)

142 (41.0)

0.366

0.301

Fish/seafoods

102 (29.2)

161 (46.5)

263 (76.0)

2.308

0.082

Legumes

110 (31.8)

151 (43.6)

261 (75.4)

0.536

0.273

Nut and seed

54 (15.6)

97 (28.0)

151 (43.6)

3.086

0.050

Milk/milk product

44 (12.7)

86 (24.9)

130 (37.6)

4.454

0.022

Oil, fats and butter

122 (35.3)

186 (53.8)

308 (89.0%)

2.370

0.087

Sugar/honey

32 (9.2)

63 (18.2)

95 (27.0)

2.929

0.055
Significant at p < 0.05
Table 8. Dietary diversity score of the respondents.

Dietary diversity score (DDS)

Male

Female

Total

X2

P-value

Low /Poor (0-3)

3 (0.9)

18 (5.2)

21 (6.1)

0.002

Medium/ Fair (4-7)

108 31.2)

122 (35.3)

230 (66.5)

High/Good (8-12)

31 (9.0)

64 (18.5)

95 (27.5)

Total

142 (41.0)

204 (59.0)

346 (100.0)
3.7. Care Practices of the Respondents
Table 9 below shows the care practices received by the respondents. Preparation of meals was mostly done by the respondent (41.6%) while 27.6% and 26.8% of the meals were prepared by their spouse and children respectively. Respondents usually don’t receive assistance in bathing (93.7%), in taking medication (90.9%) and dressing (90.6%). Feeding assistance was received 18.2% Children/relatives of the subjects. Thirty-four-point eight percent of the respondents received care assistance from Children/relatives while 53.6% could not receive care in washing clothes. Only 2.6% had good care practices while 90.2% had fair care practices and 6.1% had poor care practice meaning they totally like care and may likely not received care assistance from anybody and at the same time could not performed them (table 9).
Table 9. Care practices of the respondents.

Activities

Frequency

Percentage

Preparation of meals

Spouse

97

27.6

Children

94

26.8

House help

14

4.0

No one

0

0.0

Myself

146

41.6

Total

346

100.0

Assistance in bathing

Spouse

10

2.8

Child/relatives

8

2.3

House Help

4

1.1

Myself

329

93.7

Total

346

100.0

Assistance in taking medications

Spouse

8

2.3

Child/relatives

17

4.8

House Help

4

1.1

No one

3

.9

Myself

319

90.9

Total

346

100.0

Assistance in Feeding

Spouse

29

8.3

Child/relatives

64

18.2

House Help

9

2.6

No one

19

5.4

Myself

230

65.5

Total

346

100.0

Assistance in washing clothes

Spouse

30

8.6

Child/relatives

122

34.8

House Help

11

3.1

Myself

188

53.6

Total

346

100.0

Assistance in shopping

Spouse

48

13.7

Child/relatives

79

22.5

House Help

6

1.7

No one

71

20.2

Myself

147

41.9

Total

346

100.0

Assistance in dressing up

Spouse

9

2.6

Child/relatives

11

3.1

House Help

5

1.4

No one

8

2.3

Myself

318

90.6

Total

346

100.0
Table 10. Care practices score of the respondents.

Care practices score (NCPS)

Male

Female

Total

X2

P-value

Poor care practices (PCP)

8 (2.3)

17 (4.9)

25 (6.1)

1.640

0.440

Fair care practices FCP)

129 (37.3)

183 (52.9)

312 (90.2)

Good care practices (GCP)

5 (1.4)

4 (1.2)

9 (2.6)

Total

142 (41.0)

204 (59.0)

346 (100.0)
Significant at p < 0.05
3.8. Nutritional Status of the Respondents
The nutritional status of the respondents is presented in Table 11. This study found that (9.0%) of the elderly were underweight while nearly half (49.0%) were within the healthful BMI range. Overweight and obesity which are 30% and 15.9% were more prevalence among the female elderly. Female respondents were not just more overweight and obese, but the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Waist circumference status of the respondents revealed that 33.8% of the of the entire study population were found to have a central obesity. The prevalence of central obesity was higher among female respondents (52.0%) compared to their males’ counterpart (10%) and it was statistically significant (p<0.05). Similarly, waist to hip ratio revealed that 30.6% were obese while two-thirds (69.4%) had normal waist to hip ratio. Significant difference (p<0.05), also exist between male and female participants. Judging with waist to height ratio, 30.3% of the respondent were at risk of cardiovascular disease of which Female respondents (37.7%) were more at risk of than the male (19.7%) respondents. Considering the prevalence of chronic malnutrition, using the mid upper arm circumference, about 9.0% were malnourished as at the time data collection. Good nutrition was observed among 91% of the respondents.
Table 11. Nutritional Status of the Respondents.

Variables

Male= (142)

Female= (204)

Total n= 346

X2

P value

F (%

F (%)

F (%)

Body Mass Index

<18.5 (underweight)

6 (4.2)

12 (5.9)

31 (9.0)

17.813

0.007

18.5 – 24.9 (Normal)

85 (59.9)

85 (41.7)

170 (49.1)

25-29.9 (Overweight)

38 (26.8)

65 (31.9)

103 (30.0)

30-34.9 (Obesity class 1)

10 (7.0)

23 (11.3)

33 (9.5)

35-39.9 (Obesity class 2)

3 (2.1)

19 (9.3)

22 (6.4)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Waist circumference

< 88cm < 102cm (Normal)

131 (92.2)

98 (48.0)

229 (66.2)

73.131

0.005

> 88cm > 102cm (Excess)

11 (7.8)

106 (52.0)

117 (33.8)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Waist-Hip Ratio

<0.84<0.90 (Normal)

79 (55.6)

161 (78.9)

240 (69.4)

21.366

0.002

≥0.85≥0.90 (Excess)

63 (44.4)

43 (21.1)

106 (30.6)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

Waist-Height Ratio

Healthy weight

90 (63.4)

98 (48.0)

189 (54.6)

24.284

0.030

Overweight

24 (16.9)

39 (19.1)

63 (18.2)

Central obesity

28 (19.7)

77 (37.7)

105 (30.3)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)

MUAC

3.266

0.051

Malnutrition

8 (5.6)

23 (11.3)

31 (9.0)

Good nutrition

134 (94.4)

181 (88.7)

315 (91.0)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (100.0)

346 (100.0)
Significant at p < 0.05
3.9. Other Relevant Findings
3.9.1. Health Seeking Behaviours (HSB) of the Respondents
According to Table 12 Health seeking behaviour of the respondent revealed that only 46.2% had a good health seeking behaviours, meaning that this set of elderly always approach the either the health centres, hospital and pharmacy to seek for treatment whenever they are ill. More than half of the elderly had a poor health seeking behaviours of which 28.9% of them patronized Over the counter medication/ self-medication, 17.3% subscribe to herbal medicine. Faith healing (6.1%) was not left behind as well.
Table 12. Health seeking behaviours (HSB) of the respondents.

Sources of health care

Frequency

Percentage

Health Center/pharmacy

160

46.2

Herbal Medicine

60

17.3

Over the counter medication / self-medications

100

28.9

Faith healing

21

6.1

None

5

1.4

Total

346

100.0
3.9.2. Chronic Health Conditions of the Respondents as Suffered in the Last 12 Months
Table 13 presents the health conditions of the respondents. The prevalence of diabetes was 21.1%, nearly one-third of the respondent suffered body pain (73.1%) and joint pain (59.5%). Twenty-six-point four percent (20.8%) were hypertensive. Dental caries was found to be 14.5% of the entire population involved in the survey. The least diseases recorded among the subjects are Bloating and Defecation problem of which only 0.3% and 2.3% had the problem respectively. Malaria, dementia, and eye problem were found among 52.0%, 12.1% and 19.0% respectively. Only (6.4%) of the respondents had depression while ear problems (26.3%) complained of loss of appetite.
Table 13. Chronic health conditions of the respondents as suffered in the last 12 months.

Health conditions

Male =142 (%)

Female =204 (%)

Total=346 (%)

X2

P-value

Body pain

105 (30.3)

148 (42.8)

253 (73.1)

0.083

0.436

Joint pain

85 (24.6)

121 (35.0)

206 (59.5)

.010

0.504

Diabetes

28 (19.7)

45 (22.00)

73 (21.1)

4.793

0.024

Heart problem

2 (0.6)

6 (1.7)

8 (2.3)

0.871

0.291

Loss of appetite

28 (8.1)

63 (18.2)

91 (26.3)

5.383

0.013

Dementia

27 (7.8)

15 (4.3)

42 (12.1)

10.67

0.001

Osteoporosis

2 (0.6)

8 (2.3)

10 (2.9)

1.884

0.147

Depression

34 (9.8)

79 (22.8)

113 (32.6)

8.318

0.003

Urination problem

3 (0.9)

6 (1.7)

9 (2.8)

0.227

0.456

Constipation

9 (2.6)

4 (1.2)

13 (3.8)

4.436

0.035

Hypertension

21 (6.1)

51 (14.7)

72 (20.8)

5.297

0.014

Dental caries

19 (5.5)

31 (9.0)

50 (14.5)

0.223

0.378

Ear problem

11 (3.2)

16 (4.6)

27 (7.8)

.001

0.572

Malaria

86 (24.9)

104 (30.1)

190 (52.0)

3.105

0.049

Defecation problem

5 (1.4)

3 (0.9)

8 (2.3)

1.559

0.188

Eye problem

24 (6.9)

42 (12.1)

66 (19.0)

0.737

0.237

Bloating

1 (0.3)

0 (0.0)

1 (0.3)

1.441

0.410
3.9.3. Activities of Daily Living of the Respondents
Table 14 presents the Activities of Daily living of the respondents. Out of the 346 respondents that participated in the study, questions on their ability to perform daily activities were asked by each of them. Dressing, bathing, eating, toileting, walking, and Taking Medications were the leading activities performed by the respondents. Above 95% of all the respondents could conveniently perform the home operations. Sixty-three percent (63.5%), 51.9% and 63.5% would need the assistance of others in shopping, doing housework and in preparation of meal respectively. Less than 5% of the respondents could not conveniently put on clothes, bathe, eat, toilet, and walk i.e. they needed assistance in on putting on clothes, bathing, eating toileting, and walking. More than two-third (80%) of the respondent had a good activities of daily living score while 3.2% had poor activities of daily living score, this set of respondents may likely be unable to do anything for themselves.
Table 14. Activities of Daily Living of the respondents.

Activities

YES (%)

No

Activities

Frequency (n=346)

(%)

Frequency (n=346)

N (%)

Dressing

338

96.3

17

8

Bathing

338

96.3

13

3.7

Eating

343

97.7

8

2.3

Toileting

340

96.9

11

3.1

Walking

340

96.9

11

3.1

Shopping

128

36.5

223

63.5

Preparing Meals

181

51.6

170

48.4

Housework

169

48.1

182

51.9

Taking Medications

314

89.5

37

10.5

Managing Finances

246

70.1

105

29.9
3.9.4. Blood Pressure Pattern of the Respondents
A total of 40% of the respondents had normal systolic blood pressure. Twenty -six-point five percent (26.5%) of them were female respondents. Only 22.9% of the study populations were at borderline (pre-hypertension). Some of the respondents (21.6%) were said to having grades 1 while 15.1% had an elevated grade 2 (hypertension) of which its prevalence (16.2%) was found to be among female respondents. There was a statistical significance in the systolic blood pressure between the male and female respondents (p꞊0.001). On diastolic blood pressure pattern, 63.3% of the respondents had normal blood pressure while 23% were hypertensive regardless of the 13.6% that were at borderline (pre-hypertension). Significance difference was observed between the diastolic blood pressure pattern the male and female respondents (p>0.005).
Table 15. Blood pressure pattern of the respondents.

Variables

Male (%)

Female (%)

Total (%)

X2

P value

SBP (mmHg)

Optimal BP (<120)

37 (36)

49 (26.5)

86 (29.5)

20.860

0.001

Normal BP (120-129)

5 (7)

27 (16)

32 (11.0)

Pre-Hypertension (130-139)

33 (30.8)

34 (18.4)

67 (22.9)

Hypertension grade 1 (140-159)

18 (16.8)

45 (23)

63 (21.6)

Hypertension grade 2 (160-179)

14 (13.1)

30 (16.2)

44 (15.1)

Total

107 (100.0)

185 (100.0)

292 (100.0)

DBP (mmHg)

Optimal BP (<80)

59 (55.1)

97 (52.4)

156 (53.4)

10.456

0.063

Normal BP (80-84)

7 (6.5)

22 (11.9)

29 (9.9)

Pre-Hypertension (85-89)

14 (13.1)

26 (11)

40 (13.4)

Hypertension grade 1 (90-99)

11 (10.2)

20 (10.8)

31 (10.6)

Hypertension grade 2 (100-109)

16 (15.0)

20 (10.8)

36 (12.4)

Total

107 (100.0)

185 (100.0)

292 (100.0)
Significant at p < 0.05
3.9.5. Quality of Life Score of the Respondents
The table below shows the quality of life of the respondent in the study area. the quality of life of the respondents reflects the perception of the on their health status. From the table, good quality of life was observed among 31.2% of the subjects of which 33.8% of the total number of female participants who participated. Majority of the entire samples shows that 68.2% had fair quality of life. The difference observed between male, and female wasn’t significant (P=0.446).
Table 16. Quality of life score of the respondents.

Quality of life score

Male

Female

Total (%)

X2

P value

Good (GQL)

39 (27.5)

69 (33.8)

108 (31.2)

1.614

0.446

Fair (FQL)

102 (71.8)

134 (65.7)

236 (68.2)

Poor (PQL)

1 (0.3)

1 (0.5)

2 (0.6)

Total

142 (100.0)

204 (59.0)

346 (100.0)
Significant at p < 0.05
3.9.6. Relationship Nutritional Status, Blood Pressure Pattern and ADL Score, DDS Score, NCP Score, and QOL Score of the Respondents
Table 17 below presents the relationship between anthropometric status, blood pressure pattern and ADL score, DDS score, NCP score, and QOL score of the respondents using correlation. There was a significant positive relationship between BMI against activities of daily living score (ADL score), (r= 0.334 vs P=0.001), dietary diversity score, (r= 0.363 vs P=0.000), care practices score), (r= 0.334 vs P=0.002) and quality of life score (r= 0.254 vs P=0.021) of the respondents. It simply means BMI increased with an increase in the average ADL score, DDS score, NCP score, and QOL by the respondents. Similarly, there was a significant positive relationship between WHTR against activities of daily living score (ADL score), (r= 0.306 vs P=0.000), dietary diversity score, (r= 0.339 vs P=0.002), care practices score), (r= 0.319 vs P=0.000) and quality of life score (r= 0.219 vs P=0.066) of the respondents. Systolic blood pressure was significantly associated with activities of daily living score (ADL score), (r= 0. 0.353 vs P=0.003), while negligible correlation was observed in dietary diversity score, (r= 0.298 vs P=0.055), care practices score, (r= 0.291 vs P=0.072) and quality of life score (r= 0.213 vs P=0.182) of the respondents.
Table 17. Relationship anthropometric status, blood pressure pattern and ADL score, DDS score, NCP score, and QOL score of the respondents.

Anthropometric Parameters

ADL score

DDS score

NCP score

QOL score

r

P-value

R

P-value

R

P-value

r

P-value

BMI (Kgm-2)

0.339

0.001

0.363

0.000

0.334

0.002

0.254

0.021

WC (cm)

0.087

0.264

0.069

0.435

0.111

0.113

0.141

0.030

WHR

0.121

0.075

0.087

0.267

0.143

0.028

0.125

.0650

WHTR

0.306

0.000

0.390

0.002

0.319

0.000

0.219

0.066

MAUC (cm)

0.209

0.000

0.083

0.303

0.203

0.001

0.127

0.060

SBP (mmHg)

0.353

0.003

0.298

0.055

0.291

0.072

0.213

0.182

DBP (mmHg)

0.217

0.152

0.346

0.000

0.230

0.090

0.260

0.020
Significant at p < 0.05), Key ADL=Activities of Daily Living, DDS = Dietary diversity score, NCP=Nutritional care practices score, and QOL = Quality of life score SBP= Systolic Blood Pressure, DBP- Diastolic blood pressure, WHR- Waist-to-Hip Ratio, WHtR- Waist-to-Height Ratio, BMI-Body Mass Index, MUAC- mid upper arm circumference
3.9.7. Relationship Between Nutritional Care Practices Score and Quality of Life Score of the Elderly
Table 18 below, it’s clear that care practices of the respondent had a link with the quality of life of the respondent. There was a significant positive correlation between nutritional care practices score (NCP), and quality of life score of the respondent (r = 0.206; P=0.004). It was found out that the majority of the respondents, 312 (90.2%) with fair care practices, 216 (62.4%) had fair quality of life. Fair quality of life is associated with fair care practices among the respondent.
Table 18. Relationship between Nutritional care practices score (NCP), on quality of life score of the respondent.

Variables

Quality of life score (QOLs)

NCP score

Poor

Fair

Good

Total

R

P-value

Poor care practices (PCP)

1 (0.3)

11 (3.2)

13 (3.8)

25 (7.2)

0.206

0.004

Fair care practices FCP)

1 (0.3)

216 (62.4)

95 (27.5)

312 (90.2)

Good care practices (GCP)

0 (0.0)

9 (2.6)

0 (0.0)

9 (2.6)

Total

2 (0.6)

236 (68.2)

108 (31.2)

346 (100.0)
Significant at p < 0.05
4. Discussion
4.1. Socio-demographic Characteristics of the Respondents
This study focused on the nutritional care practices, quality of life, and health status of the elderly in rural communities in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. The global elderly population is increasing, and malnutrition remains a significant concern due to socio-economic factors
[15]
. The study found that two-thirds of respondents were aged 60-64 years, which is lower than findings in similar studies in southwestern Nigeria
[16, 17]
. There were more female than male participants, possibly due to availability and approachability factors, aligning with findings by Adepoju and Coker
[20]
. Marital status impacts elderly health and nutrition, with over a third of respondents being widowed, separated, or divorced, a situation linked to increased poverty and food insecurity. Most respondents were Yoruba and Christian, reflecting the local demographics. However, housing conditions were often poor, exposing the elderly to various risks
[18]
. Educational levels were low, with many relying on personal effort for livelihood, mirroring findings in Ilaro, Ogun State. The predominant economic activity was trading, consistent with Afolabi et al.
[17]
.
4.2. Medical History and Lifestyle Patterns of the Respondents
A healthy lifestyle includes physical activity, good nutrition, and avoiding tobacco. Most elderly respondents had abstained from alcohol, smoking, and tobacco, lower than rates reported in Kenya
[19]
. This abstinence may be due to awareness of alcohol's negative health impacts, particularly for those with compromised immune systems.
4.3. Nutritional Practices
Less than 20% of respondents ate fewer than three meals a day, with over half skipping lunch, like findings by Adepoju and Coker
[20]
. Skipping meals is linked to health issues like gastric ulcers and poor glucose management in diabetics
[12]
.
4.4. Dietary Diversity
Dietary diversity indicates the quality of a diet. Most respondents had a medium dietary diversity score, consuming foods from 4-7 food groups in the past 24 hours, consistent with other studies. However, low consumption of protein-rich foods like eggs and milk could lead to nutrient deficiencies.
4.5. Care Practices
Traditional support for the elderly is prevalent, with a small proportion living alone, which is lower than findings in rural Kenya
[19]
. Most respondents lived with family, with friends also playing a supportive role. Care practices were generally fair, with the elderly often preparing their own meals and receiving minimal assistance with daily activities.
4.6. Activities of Daily Living
Most respondents could perform daily activities independently, though a third needed help with meal preparation, like findings by Munoru
[19]
. Supportive settings are crucial for maintaining good dietary and physical activity habits
[21]
.
4.7. Nutritional Status
Nutritional status, measured by BMI, WC, WHR, WHtR, and MUAC, showed a high prevalence of overweight and obesity, particularly among women. Nearly half the population was overweight or obese, higher than findings in Osun State
[14]
. Central obesity was more common among females, increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome
[22, 23]
. Chronic malnutrition was also present, indicating inadequate energy intake and the need for better care to reduce malnutrition-related mortality
[24]
.
4.8. Health-Seeking Behaviors of the Elderly
Health-seeking behaviors, defined by Afolabi et al.
[17]
, showed that 46.2% of respondents regularly sought treatment from health facilities, lower than in other studies
[25]
. Many relied on over-the-counter medication, herbal medicine, and faith healing, a trend higher than among market traders in Owo
[12]
. Untrained patent drug dealers pose risks due to counterfeit drugs and improper dosage.
4.9. Health Status of the Elderly
Chronic diseases such as musculoskeletal problems, diabetes, and hypertension were prevalent. The incidence of diabetes was 21.1%, lower than in Osun State (Olanrewaju et al., 2022) but higher than figures in southwestern Nigeria
[26]
. Hypertension affected 20.8% of respondents, consistent with previous studies
[17]
, with elevated blood pressure noted in many subjects. Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases were significant health issues, requiring better health interventions and support systems.
5. Conclusion
In conclusion, despite the easy access to farm products in rural areas, the low intake of fruits, vegetables, eggs, milk, and meat suggests significant micronutrient deficiencies among residents, contributing to chronic diseases. The diet is predominantly carbohydrate-based with limited protein sources, indicating malnutrition. High morbidity rates, particularly among the elderly, coupled with poor health-seeking behaviors and inadequate care practices, negatively impact dietary intake and quality of life. The study highlights a high prevalence of hypertension and a double burden of malnutrition, underscoring the need for improved dietary diversity, health practices, and support systems for rural elderly populations. Additionally, it found significant correlations between anthropometric parameters, daily activities, and quality of life.
Abbreviations

ADL

Activities of Daily Living

BMI

Body Mass Index

FCP

Fair Care Practice

GCP

Good Care Practice

MUAC

Middle Upper Arm Circumference

NCP

Nutrition Care Practice

PCP

Poor Care Practice

SBP

Systolic Blood Pressure

WHO

World Health Organization

WHO-QoL

WHO Quality of Life

WHR

Waist to Hip Ratio

WHtR

Waist to Height Ratio
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
References
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[13] Andia A, Fourera S, Souleymane B, Mamane D and Adehossi E (2019). Evaluation of Nutritional Status at Household in Elderly Assessed by Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) in West Africa Country, Niamey-Niger. American Journal of Gerontology and Geriatrics 2(1), 1-4.
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    Daniel, E. O., Olanrewaju, O. I., Olawale, O. O., Bello, A. M., Tomori, M. O., et al. (2024). Nutritional Practices, Quality of Life and, Health Status of Elderly in Rural Communities in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. World Journal of Public Health, 9(2), 206-224. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21

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    Daniel, E. O.; Olanrewaju, O. I.; Olawale, O. O.; Bello, A. M.; Tomori, M. O., et al. Nutritional Practices, Quality of Life and, Health Status of Elderly in Rural Communities in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. World J. Public Health 2024, 9(2), 206-224. doi: 10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21

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    AMA Style

    Daniel EO, Olanrewaju OI, Olawale OO, Bello AM, Tomori MO, et al. Nutritional Practices, Quality of Life and, Health Status of Elderly in Rural Communities in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. World J Public Health. 2024;9(2):206-224. doi: 10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21

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  • @article{10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21,
  author = {Ebenezer Obi Daniel and Omoniyi Isaac Olanrewaju and Oluseyi Oludamilola Olawale and Ahmed Mamuda Bello and Michael Olabode Tomori and Michael Avwerhota and Israel Olukayode Popoola and Adebanke Adetutu Ogun and Aisha Oluwakemi Salami and Olukayode Oladeji Alewi and Taiwo Aderemi Popoola and Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo},
  title = {Nutritional Practices, Quality of Life and, Health Status of Elderly in Rural Communities in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria
},
  journal = {World Journal of Public Health},
  volume = {9},
  number = {2},
  pages = {206-224},
  doi = {10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.wjph.20240902.21},
  abstract = {The study investigates the nutrition practices, health status, and quality of life of elderly individuals in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. It involves a descriptive cross-sectional design with 346 elderly participants aged 60-90, systematically sampled from six rural communities. Data were collected via structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires on demographics, medical and lifestyle histories, daily activities, health-seeking behaviors, food consumption, and nutritional care practices. Nutritional status and high blood pressure were assessed using anthropometric indices and a digital sphygmomanometer. Key findings indicate that 37.6% of participants were aged 60-64. Significant differences were noted between sexes in socio-demographic variables. Alcohol consumption, tobacco sniffing, and cigarette smoking were reported by 15.3%, 11.0%, and 4.6% respectively. Additionally, 23.1% were on hypertensive drugs and 20.1% were confirmed diabetics. Meal frequency varied, with 16.5% eating less than three times daily and 59.2% eating three times daily. Lunch (58.0%) and breakfast (36.6%) were the most skipped meals, and 15% ate outside the home. Dietary diversity scores revealed 66.5% with medium and 27.5% with good diversity. Significant gender differences were observed in dietary diversity and consumption patterns of cereals, roots, tubers, and fruits. Nutritional care practices and daily living activities scores showed 90.2% and 80.6% with fair practices and good activity scores, respectively, while 46.2% demonstrated good health-seeking behavior. Common health complaints included body and joint pain. Central obesity rates were 33.8% (WC), 30.3% (WHtR), and 30.6% (WHR). Elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure were found in 36.7% and 23% of participants, respectively. Only 31.2% reported a good quality of life. Significant positive correlations were found between nutritional status, quality of life, nutritional care practices, and functionality. Malnutrition, poor quality of life, and inadequate care practices among the elderly in rural areas highlight a public health challenge requiring targeted interventions.
},
 year = {2024}
}

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  • TY  - JOUR
T1  - Nutritional Practices, Quality of Life and, Health Status of Elderly in Rural Communities in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria

AU  - Ebenezer Obi Daniel
AU  - Omoniyi Isaac Olanrewaju
AU  - Oluseyi Oludamilola Olawale
AU  - Ahmed Mamuda Bello
AU  - Michael Olabode Tomori
AU  - Michael Avwerhota
AU  - Israel Olukayode Popoola
AU  - Adebanke Adetutu Ogun
AU  - Aisha Oluwakemi Salami
AU  - Olukayode Oladeji Alewi
AU  - Taiwo Aderemi Popoola
AU  - Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo
Y1  - 2024/06/26
PY  - 2024
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21
DO  - 10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21
T2  - World Journal of Public Health
JF  - World Journal of Public Health
JO  - World Journal of Public Health
SP  - 206
EP  - 224
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2637-6059
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.21
AB  - The study investigates the nutrition practices, health status, and quality of life of elderly individuals in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. It involves a descriptive cross-sectional design with 346 elderly participants aged 60-90, systematically sampled from six rural communities. Data were collected via structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires on demographics, medical and lifestyle histories, daily activities, health-seeking behaviors, food consumption, and nutritional care practices. Nutritional status and high blood pressure were assessed using anthropometric indices and a digital sphygmomanometer. Key findings indicate that 37.6% of participants were aged 60-64. Significant differences were noted between sexes in socio-demographic variables. Alcohol consumption, tobacco sniffing, and cigarette smoking were reported by 15.3%, 11.0%, and 4.6% respectively. Additionally, 23.1% were on hypertensive drugs and 20.1% were confirmed diabetics. Meal frequency varied, with 16.5% eating less than three times daily and 59.2% eating three times daily. Lunch (58.0%) and breakfast (36.6%) were the most skipped meals, and 15% ate outside the home. Dietary diversity scores revealed 66.5% with medium and 27.5% with good diversity. Significant gender differences were observed in dietary diversity and consumption patterns of cereals, roots, tubers, and fruits. Nutritional care practices and daily living activities scores showed 90.2% and 80.6% with fair practices and good activity scores, respectively, while 46.2% demonstrated good health-seeking behavior. Common health complaints included body and joint pain. Central obesity rates were 33.8% (WC), 30.3% (WHtR), and 30.6% (WHR). Elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure were found in 36.7% and 23% of participants, respectively. Only 31.2% reported a good quality of life. Significant positive correlations were found between nutritional status, quality of life, nutritional care practices, and functionality. Malnutrition, poor quality of life, and inadequate care practices among the elderly in rural areas highlight a public health challenge requiring targeted interventions.

VL  - 9
IS  - 2
ER  -

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