A Comparative Study of the Mental Health Outcomes of Elderly Patients in Nursing Homes Versus Those Living with Family in Sokoto State
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Background of the Study
Mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, yet it is often under-addressed among the elderly population in Nigeria (Umar & Bashir, 2023). In Sokoto State, elderly individuals face varying mental health challenges depending on their living arrangements. Nursing homes, designed to offer professional care and structured social environments, contrast sharply with family-based living arrangements where elderly patients often receive informal care within a familiar setting (Ibrahim et al., 2024). The institutional setting of nursing homes may provide systematic mental health interventions and social activities; however, it can also lead to feelings of isolation, loss of autonomy, and stigmatization (Rahman & Lawal, 2024). Conversely, living with family can offer emotional support, continuity of cultural practices, and a sense of belonging, but it may also expose elderly individuals to potential neglect, intergenerational conflicts, and inadequate mental health attention when the family lacks proper knowledge or resources (Musa & Abdullahi, 2025).
Recent literature emphasizes the importance of comparing these two settings to understand their respective impacts on mental health outcomes among the elderly. Factors such as social support, access to mental health services, caregiver competence, and environmental stressors play crucial roles in shaping mental health (Okafor, 2023). In Sokoto State, where cultural expectations and family ties are strong, the dynamics of mental health care are influenced by traditional beliefs and the availability of community support systems. However, the rising trend of institutionalization due to urbanization and changing family structures has sparked debates about the most beneficial living arrangement for the mental well-being of elderly patients (Suleiman & Garba, 2024).
This study will investigate differences in mental health outcomes—such as depression, anxiety, and overall psychological well-being—between elderly individuals residing in nursing homes and those living with family. By integrating quantitative assessments and qualitative insights, the research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how these living arrangements impact mental health. The findings are expected to inform policymakers and mental health practitioners on best practices for elderly care, while also addressing gaps in current mental health services that often overlook the unique needs of the elderly in Sokoto State (Umar & Bashir, 2023).
Statement of the Problem
Despite increased attention to mental health issues globally, elderly mental health remains a neglected area in Nigeria, particularly in Sokoto State (Ibrahim et al., 2024). Elderly patients residing in nursing homes face challenges related to institutional living, such as limited personal interaction and potential marginalization. In contrast, those living with family might benefit from closer personal support but could also encounter issues stemming from insufficient professional mental health care and intergenerational tension (Rahman & Lawal, 2024). The lack of targeted mental health interventions for the elderly in both settings creates a critical gap in healthcare service delivery.
The problem is further complicated by the scarcity of recent empirical research that directly compares the mental health outcomes of these two groups. Without a clear understanding of how living arrangements affect mental well-being, caregivers, policymakers, and mental health professionals cannot develop effective interventions tailored to the needs of elderly individuals in Sokoto State (Musa & Abdullahi, 2025). The limited availability of mental health resources in nursing homes and the over-reliance on familial support in home settings have both contributed to suboptimal mental health outcomes among the elderly.
Moreover, societal stigma and cultural misconceptions about mental illness further impede the identification and treatment of mental health issues in elderly populations (Okafor, 2023). Given the rising number of elderly individuals and the attendant increase in mental health disorders, there is an urgent need to compare these two care environments to determine which offers a more conducive atmosphere for positive mental health outcomes. This study will bridge the existing knowledge gap by providing a comparative analysis, ultimately contributing to the development of context-specific mental health strategies and support systems for elderly individuals in Sokoto State.
Objectives of the Study
- To compare mental health outcomes—specifically levels of depression, anxiety, and overall psychological well-being—among elderly patients in nursing homes versus those living with family in Sokoto State.
- To identify the key factors influencing mental health outcomes in both living arrangements.
- To propose actionable recommendations for improving mental health services for the elderly based on living arrangement differences.
Research Questions
- What are the differences in mental health outcomes between elderly patients in nursing homes and those living with family in Sokoto State?
- Which factors most significantly influence the mental health of elderly individuals in each living arrangement?
- What strategies can be implemented to enhance mental health support for the elderly across both settings?
Research Hypotheses
- Elderly patients living in nursing homes experience higher levels of depression and anxiety compared to those living with family.
- The presence of consistent social support is positively correlated with improved mental health outcomes among elderly individuals.
- Tailored mental health interventions are more effective in improving psychological well-being among elderly patients living in family settings than in institutional settings.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study targets elderly individuals (aged 60 and above) in Sokoto State, comparing mental health outcomes between those residing in nursing homes and those living with family. Data will be gathered through structured interviews, standardized mental health assessments, and caregiver reports. Limitations include potential response biases, cultural sensitivities regarding mental health discussions, and challenges in standardizing mental health measurement across different living environments.
Definitions of Terms
- Mental Health Outcomes: Measures of psychological well-being including depression, anxiety, and overall life satisfaction.
- Nursing Homes: Institutional facilities that provide long-term care and support for elderly individuals, including medical and psychosocial services.
- Family Living: A care arrangement where elderly individuals reside with family members, receiving informal care.
- Elderly Patients: Individuals aged 60 years and above.
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