Frail Elderly’s Perception of Quality of Healthcare in the Tema Metropolis, Greater Accra

Abstract

Background: The World Health Organisation (WHO) statistics reveal that people worldwide are living longer; and currently, 125 million people are aged 80 years or older. However, the challenge is how to ensure the provision of a quality healthcare to the frail elderly. Objective: This qualitative study explored the perception of the quality of healthcare among the frail elderly in the Tema Metropolitan Assembly. Methods: A semi-structured interview guide was used to gather information on the perception of the quality of health care among fifteen (15) frail elderly within age 60+ years who were being assisted in more than two personal activities such as walking, and dressing. The interviews also explored the influence of health provider and socio-cultural factors on the perception of quality of healthcare among these frail elderly. The qualitative interview data was analysed using Nvivo after content analysis had been applied to identify the emerging themes from the transcripts. The findings of the study were explained using the health belief model and the health systems framework. Results: The study found that the frail elderly acknowledged the imperative role that availability of facilities and equipment play in healthcare delivery. However, they did not know of any social policy existing to make their lives better or to improve their healthcare, considering their susceptibility to chronic and non-communicable diseases. It was evident that strong family attachments made the frail elderly fulfilled and felt healthier. The frail elderly felt a sense of feeling of wellness and hope of recovery. Conclusion: The study concludes that there were inadequate nursing homes for the aged and that equipment were needed in frail elderly’s nursing home to ensure their safety and quality of care. It was suggested that they would be much happier if there were policies that would provide the frail elderly with money or cater for their fundamental needs. The study further concludes and recommends the involvement of the family and significant others as very important factors in the delivery of quality healthcare to the frail elderly.