Abstract
Background: The present study was conducted to estimate the health, social and economic problems of elderly population in an urban setting in Kerala and also the utilization of primary health care services by them.
Methods: This study was done as a cross sectional study in an urban population. 152 people aged above 60 years was selected from the community using two stage cluster sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured pretested questionnaire by one to one interview technique. Data entry was done in SPSS version 15 and the results were expressed in percentages
Results: Regarding the health problems 35.5% was having acute health problems for the last one month. About chronic problems 81 % was having any one chronic problems and on treatment. 72 % is having more than one chronic problem. The self reported economic problems are, 42.2 % having a monthly income below 1000 rupees but 69 % said their income is inadequate to meet their expenses and 50 % is depending on family members for their expenses. The main social problems identified are abuse by the family members ( 32 %.) quarrel with Family members and neighbours (27 %) .
Conclusions: The estimated acute and chronic morbidities and the social and economic problems are high among the elderly population and it is very relevant in a state like Kerala having the largest share o elderly population among the Indian states.
Keywords: Health problems, economic problems, social problems, utilization of primary health care services by elderly.
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Corresponding Author
Dr Mini S S
Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine
Government Medical College, Kollam Kerala
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i5.69
