Knowledge, attitudes and challenges of nutrition among elderly people in Sentema Parish, Wakiso District in Central Uuganda

Abstract

In Uganda, most studies assessing knowledge, attitudes and challenges of nutrition among the vulnerable populations have focused mainly on children and leaving out the elderly who are equally at risk of nutritional challenges. The largest population is composed of the young people of which majority have abandoned rural areas and migrated to urban areas; most elderly people have been left to take care of themselves. The elderly need to have adequate knowledge, right attitudes and must acknowledge the challenges they face in order to achieve optimal nutritional status. Objectives The main objective of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitudes and challenges of nutrition among elderly people in Sentema parish, Wakiso district in Central Uganda. Methods A descriptive cross sectional study design employing the use of quantitative methods will be used. I77 elderly people in Sentema parish will be selected using cluster random sampling technique where 5 of the 10 villages in Sentema parish will serve as the clusters. Participants in each of these clusters will be got by conveniently selecting the available elderly people and data will be collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire with both open ended and closed ended questions. Ethical approval will be sought from IRB School of health sciences, Makerere University. Data collected will be analysed using SPSS version 20, and a dissertation will be written which will be shared with Makerere University College of health sciences for dissemination of study findings. Results A total of 177 elderly individuals aged 65- 99 were recruited based on the selection criteria. The mean age was 75yrs (SD 9.20). Majority 62.1% (110) were female. 35.6%, 37.9% and 2.3% of the participants had higher knowledge in regards to balanced diet, food groups needed and sources of dietary fibre. Majority of the elderly had positive attitude towards nutrition. Challenges towards nutrition among elderly included, poverty, chewing problem. I recommend that there be annual well elderly appointments and clinics and nutritional health education via media.