Factors Influencing Aged Preferences for Healthcare Services in Selected Rural Communities of Ayedaade Local Government Area, Osun State

Abstract

Over the years, there has been a growing recognition of the challenges of aged healthcare and care preferences especially the rural aged and the need for it to be addressed. Hence, this study examined factors influencing aged preferences for healthcare services in three rural communities of Ayedaade Local Government Area of Osun State by adopting combinations of methods. A total of 127 structured questionnaires were administered to the elderly (60 years and older) in the designated localities. In addition to this, nine people were interviewed in the three communities studied. It was revealed that health personnel such as doctors, nurses, among others were rarely available and those available were not responsive at the healthcare facilities. Also, the healthcare facilities had limited number of rooms and the available roomsand beds were in poor conditions. The study further revealed traditional care as the aged most preferred healthcare in the three communities and factors such as distance to the health, long waiting time and literacy level were found to be influencing their preferences. The study suggested the need to put into consideration aged preferences in planning choices connected to health care services especially those in the rural areas. Also, there is the need for health care services provided to be monitored appropriately by the relevant government agencies.