Psychological Problems in Geriatric-Age Group in Rural Area

Background: The study focuses on the factors that affect psychological health, medical ailments, nutrition, family support to the elderly of the rural area in the Wardha district of Maharashtra and also the solutions of the same.

Aim: To assess psychological problems in the geriatric age group in rural area.

Objectives: To find out the occurrence of health problems, common psychological and physical stressors faced, and the percentage of old age people residing with family who feel neglected in rural areas.

Methodology: Cross sectional study with simple random sampling of 200 elderly above 60yrs of age residing in rural area of Wardha district from February 1, 2020 to March 1, 2020 with a preformed questionnaire.

Results: amongst the study sample, it was found that tobacco chewing (50%), anaemia (40%) and hypertension (46%) were found to be major physical stressors. While poor concentration (40%), sleep disturbances (50%) and family neglect (71%), increased health expenditure (82%), limitation in physical activity (48%), decrease in social life (68%) were common psychological stressors affecting the life of geriatric population.

Conclusion: Based on the results of the above study, there is an crucial need for the government to make action plans regarding old age pensions, proper nutrition and essential health facilities and sustaining the moral values which can make the younger generations feel more responsible towards the geriatric age group.