Background of the Study:
Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with elderly populations being particularly vulnerable. In Kogi State, the demographic shift toward an aging population has brought increased attention to the cardiovascular health of older adults. The cumulative effect of decades of exposure to risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and unhealthy lifestyle habits places the elderly at a heightened risk for heart disease (Olaniyi, 2023). Age-related physiological changes, including arterial stiffening and reduced cardiac efficiency, further exacerbate the risk, making heart disease a critical concern in this demographic.
Advances in healthcare have led to longer life expectancies in Kogi State; however, this improvement comes with the challenge of managing chronic diseases that predominantly affect older adults. Despite various healthcare initiatives aimed at reducing the incidence of heart disease, there is a notable lack of data focusing specifically on the elderly in Kogi State. This gap in the literature impedes the development of targeted interventions tailored to the unique needs of this vulnerable group (Nwankwo, 2024). Moreover, socio-economic factors such as low income, limited access to quality healthcare, and low health literacy among the elderly further complicate the management and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
The current study seeks to investigate the prevalence of heart disease among the elderly in Kogi State by exploring both clinical and socio-demographic factors. The research will assess how traditional risk factors interact with age-related changes to contribute to the overall burden of heart disease. In addition, the study will consider the impact of lifestyle behaviors, such as physical activity and dietary practices, on the cardiovascular health of the elderly. This comprehensive approach is intended to provide a holistic understanding of heart disease prevalence in this age group and to identify potential areas for intervention (Amadi, 2025).
By analyzing the prevalence and underlying causes of heart disease among the elderly, the study aims to generate evidence-based recommendations that can inform healthcare policies and improve clinical practices in Kogi State. The ultimate goal is to enhance the quality of life for older adults by reducing the incidence and impact of cardiovascular diseases.
Statement of the Problem :
The rising prevalence of heart disease among the elderly in Kogi State presents a serious public health challenge. Despite improvements in healthcare services, older adults continue to experience high rates of cardiovascular conditions. This is due in part to the cumulative effects of lifelong exposure to risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Furthermore, the natural aging process, which inherently decreases cardiovascular resilience, compounds the risk of heart disease in the elderly (Ibrahim, 2023).
A significant barrier to addressing this issue is the lack of focused research on the elderly population in Kogi State. Existing studies often generalize findings across age groups, thereby failing to account for the unique vulnerabilities of older adults. Additionally, socio-economic constraints, including limited income and inadequate access to specialized healthcare, further hinder effective management and prevention strategies for heart disease among the elderly (Ogunleye, 2025).
This research seeks to fill the gap by providing a comprehensive investigation into the prevalence of heart disease in the elderly, considering both clinical risk factors and socio-economic determinants. Without this focused data, interventions may not be optimally designed to address the specific needs of older adults, leading to continued high rates of morbidity and mortality. The lack of tailored healthcare strategies for the elderly not only affects their quality of life but also places an increasing burden on the healthcare system. Understanding the prevalence and risk factors is therefore crucial for developing effective public health policies and clinical practices that can improve cardiovascular outcomes among the elderly in Kogi State.
Objectives of the Study:
Research Questions:
Research Hypotheses:
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses on individuals aged 60 years and above in Kogi State. It examines the prevalence of heart disease and its associated risk factors. Limitations include potential sampling bias, reliance on self-reported data, and variations in healthcare access across different regions.
Definitions of Terms:
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