A Study of Awareness of Health Problems of the Elderly with Reference to Mental Health.

ABSTRACT

Objective: To access the public awareness about elderly mental health problems method 750 subjects of above the age of 18 years of urban sector were selected through purposive sampling technique. Method: The study sample consisted, 862 subjects both male & female above the age of 18 years. Out of the total population 1724 (study universe) were identified from Lucknow Municipal corporation. Only 862 (families residing elderly persons) were selected for study and rest 750 could be contacted due to their non-availability during visit of research team on working days. Self developed Performa were used for assessment of elderly problem. Results: Awareness was found very low about the elderly mental health problems (Dementia 0.8%, Delirium 0.4%, Delusional Disorder 1.6%, Insomnia 1%, Stroke 1.71 etc). Surprisingly few educated urban residents included in the study opined that the treatment of elderly problems is not necessary. Mostly the subjects (98.8%) were found unaware about the immunization of elderly and were also unaware about the appropriate diet of elderlies. Conclusion: The study strongly suggests need for psycho-education of the community particularly of the care givers. Study was carried out to sought out the suggestions of caregivers about the public awareness programmes.