English

Abstract

The aged patients seem to be confronted with barriers when using health services. Yet, care providers are often oblivious to these barriers, although they may share to some extent the burden of responsibility for them. OBJECTIVES: To study the perceptions and attitudes of geriatric health care seekers towards the health care system. To assess the potential barriers that may restrict the geriatric people from using health services. METHODOLOGY: A cross sectional study was conducted among 200 participants' ≥65 years who were attending health institutions in both rural and urban setting using pre-tested, semi- structured interview schedule. Statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Epi-info version 6.0 software. RESULT: Positive impact was found on regard to the family doctor, essential works being carried out, knowledge about the institute (P=0.000, 0.014, 0.001 respectively). Exercise played significant role among the males and females (P=0.017). Literacy had some positive impact on health status (P=0.025), essential works being carried out for themselves (P=0.033) and helpful attitude of family members (P=0.019). CONCLUSION: The significance were being observed in regards to the personal and family level both of which could be related to ignorance towards the health care for themselves or for a geriatric