Background of the Study
Elderly populations worldwide are increasing, and Nigeria is no exception, with a rising number of older adults in need of specialized healthcare. In Taraba State, the aging population faces various health challenges, including chronic illnesses like hypertension, diabetes, and dementia, which require continuous care and management. Unfortunately, there is a shortage of healthcare professionals trained in geriatric care, particularly in rural areas of Taraba State (Akinmoladun et al., 2023).
Nurse practitioners (NPs), with advanced clinical training, are uniquely positioned to address the healthcare needs of elderly populations. They are able to provide comprehensive assessments, develop individualized care plans, manage chronic diseases, offer preventive care, and educate both patients and their families on maintaining health in old age. Research indicates that nurse practitioners can effectively manage elderly patients’ health, reduce hospital readmissions, and improve overall patient satisfaction (Emmanuel et al., 2024).
In Taraba State, nurse practitioners can play a vital role in elderly care management by working in primary healthcare settings and hospitals to manage the aging population's healthcare needs. However, there is limited research on the effectiveness of nurse practitioners in elderly care management in the state. This study seeks to explore the role and effectiveness of nurse practitioners in managing elderly patients in Taraba State, focusing on patient outcomes, care quality, and the overall impact of nurse practitioners on elderly care.
Statement of the Problem
The growing elderly population in Taraba State faces a multitude of health challenges, and there is a significant gap in specialized healthcare services for the elderly. Nurse practitioners, with their skills in comprehensive care, may help address this gap. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nurse practitioners in elderly care management in Taraba State, examining their role in improving health outcomes and providing specialized care for elderly patients.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the effectiveness of nurse practitioners in managing elderly patients’ healthcare needs in Taraba State.
2. To assess the impact of nurse practitioners' interventions on the health outcomes of elderly patients in Taraba State.
3. To identify the barriers and challenges faced by nurse practitioners in managing elderly care in Taraba State.
Research Questions
1. How effective are nurse practitioners in managing elderly patients' healthcare needs in Taraba State?
2. What impact do nurse practitioners have on the health outcomes of elderly patients in Taraba State?
3. What challenges do nurse practitioners face in elderly care management in Taraba State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurse practitioners effectively manage the healthcare needs of elderly patients in Taraba State, leading to improved patient outcomes.
2. Nurse practitioners' interventions reduce hospital readmissions and improve the quality of life for elderly patients in Taraba State.
3. Barriers such as limited resources, training, and patient engagement hinder the effectiveness of nurse practitioners in managing elderly care in Taraba State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on the effectiveness of nurse practitioners in elderly care management in Taraba State, specifically evaluating their impact on health outcomes, care quality, and the challenges faced. Limitations may include access to elderly patients in rural areas, variations in the nurse practitioners' training and experience, and potential bias in patient self-reporting.
Definitions of Terms
• Nurse Practitioners: Advanced practice nurses trained to deliver comprehensive healthcare, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and care management, particularly for elderly patients.
• Elderly Care Management: The process of providing healthcare services to elderly individuals, including disease prevention, chronic disease management, health promotion, and end-of-life care.
• Health Outcomes: The results of healthcare interventions, including improvements in physical health, mental well-being, and quality of life for elderly individuals.
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