Background of the Study
The aging population is increasing globally, necessitating more comprehensive healthcare services, particularly for elderly individuals with chronic illnesses and mobility limitations. Home-based nursing care (HBNC) has emerged as an effective alternative to institutional care, allowing elderly patients to receive personalized medical attention in the comfort of their homes (WHO, 2024). This approach improves patient outcomes by enhancing medication adherence, reducing hospital readmissions, and promoting overall well-being (Adeyemi & Olawale, 2023).
In developing countries like Nigeria, where healthcare infrastructure is often limited in rural areas, HBNC has the potential to bridge healthcare gaps for elderly patients. Studies have shown that elderly individuals in rural communities face significant barriers to healthcare, including transportation difficulties, financial constraints, and a shortage of healthcare professionals (Bello et al., 2023). HBNC, delivered by trained nurses, can help mitigate these challenges by providing essential healthcare services such as chronic disease management, wound care, physical therapy, and palliative care (Adamu & Yusuf, 2024).
Borno State, which has faced significant security and economic challenges, has a high population of elderly individuals with limited access to healthcare. Traditional healthcare systems struggle to meet the needs of rural elderly populations due to a lack of hospitals, trained professionals, and essential medical resources (Ibrahim et al., 2024). Given the potential benefits of HBNC, this study aims to assess its effectiveness in improving health outcomes and quality of life for elderly patients in rural communities in Borno State.
Statement of the Problem
Elderly patients in rural areas of Borno State often suffer from inadequate healthcare services due to geographical barriers, insecurity, and poverty. Many suffer from chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis but lack regular medical follow-ups (Oseni & Musa, 2024). Institutional healthcare services are limited, and family caregivers often lack the necessary skills to manage elderly patients' health conditions effectively.
While HBNC has been recognized as an effective intervention for elderly patients in other regions, there is limited empirical data on its effectiveness in Borno State. Challenges such as inadequate funding, limited availability of trained nurses, and cultural beliefs about home care services may impact its implementation (Ogundipe et al., 2024). This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of HBNC in improving elderly patients' health outcomes and identify challenges that may hinder its success in rural communities.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the impact of home-based nursing care on the health outcomes of elderly patients in rural Borno State.
2. To identify challenges affecting the implementation of home-based nursing care in rural communities.
3. To propose strategies for improving the delivery and effectiveness of home-based nursing care for elderly patients.
Research Questions
1. How does home-based nursing care affect the health outcomes of elderly patients in rural communities?
2. What are the major challenges facing the implementation of home-based nursing care in Borno State?
3. What strategies can be adopted to enhance the effectiveness of home-based nursing care in rural areas?
Research Hypotheses
1. Home-based nursing care significantly improves the health outcomes of elderly patients in rural communities.
2. Socioeconomic and logistical barriers hinder the effective implementation of home-based nursing care.
3. Improved training and resource allocation will enhance the effectiveness of home-based nursing care in Borno State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on elderly patients receiving home-based nursing care in selected rural communities in Borno State. The study excludes elderly patients receiving institutionalized care in hospitals or nursing homes. A potential limitation is the difficulty in obtaining data from rural areas due to insecurity and accessibility issues.
Definitions of Terms
• Home-Based Nursing Care (HBNC): Medical care provided to patients at home by trained healthcare professionals.
• Elderly Patients: Individuals aged 60 years and above who require medical or supportive care.
• Chronic Disease Management: Long-term medical care focused on managing conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
• Palliative Care: Specialized medical care aimed at improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses.
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