Reaching the twilight of your life is a time of calm, peace and relaxation. Unfortunately, it is also the time when many chronic conditions begin to rear their heads. This can be difficult for Nigerians in the diaspora with elderly parents in Nigeria.
However, the more we understand some of these common chronic conditions affecting the elderly in Nigeria, the better prepared we’ll be to handle them.
Common Chronic Conditions Among the Elderly in Nigeria
- Hypertension
Hypertension is one of the most widespread chronic conditions among the elderly in Nigeria. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 31.2% of Nigerians have hypertension. For adults over 70 years old, this percentage is twice as high (63%). This condition often goes undiagnosed and untreated, leading to serious complications such as stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure.
- Diabetes
Diabetes, particularly Type 2, is another common condition among Nigeria’s elderly population. Roughly 10% of adults over 60 have diabetes, with women being more prone to the disease. Poor management of diabetes can lead to severe complications, including nerve damage, blindness, and cardiovascular diseases.
- Arthritis
Arthritis affects a significant portion of the elderly, limiting their mobility and reducing their quality of life. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, is prevalent among those over 60, with a reported prevalence rate of over 20% in this age group. Chronic pain from arthritis can lead to decreased physical activity and increased dependence on others for daily activities.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases
Conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are also common among the elderly in Nigeria. These conditions are often exacerbated by environmental factors such as air pollution and smoking, contributing to a higher incidence of respiratory problems in this age group.
- Dementia and Cognitive Decline
Cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, is a growing concern among Nigeria’s elderly. 28% of people with dementia are over 65 years old. This condition not only affects memory and cognitive abilities but also poses challenges for family members who care for those affected.
Ensuring the Right Care for the Elderly
Given these prevalent conditions, ensuring that elderly loved ones in Nigeria receive the appropriate care is crucial. This can be particularly challenging for those in the diaspora, who may not be able to oversee their relatives’ health needs personally.
Here are some strategies to ensure they get the right care:
- Regular Medical Check-ups
Encourage regular medical check-ups for early detection and management of chronic conditions. Establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider who understands the unique needs of the elderly is essential. CareValue Health can assist in coordinating these check-ups and ensuring continuity of care.
- Access to Medication
Ensure that elderly relatives have consistent access to necessary medications. This might involve arranging for a reliable method to refill prescriptions and monitor medication adherence. Services like those offered by CareValue Health can help manage medication schedules and ensure timely refills.
- Support Systems
Establish a robust support system involving family members, neighbours, and local caregivers who can monitor the elderly regularly. Technology can also play a role, with tools such as telemedicine consultations and health monitoring apps.
- Nutrition and Physical Activity
Promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging a balanced diet and regular physical activity. These are crucial in managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Nutritional counselling and tailored exercise programs can be facilitated by local healthcare providers.
- Mental Health Support
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Regular mental health check-ups and activities that stimulate cognitive function can help delay the progression of dementia and other cognitive disorders.
Conclusion
Caring for elderly parents and grandparents in Nigeria while living abroad requires careful planning and reliable support. Chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and dementia are common among the elderly, and managing these conditions effectively is vital to their well-being. Leveraging healthcare services like those provided by CareValue Health can ensure that your loved ones receive the care they need, even when you’re miles away.
Are you doing enough to ensure that your elderly relatives in Nigeria are getting the care they deserve? If you would like to do more, CareValue Health is here for you. Reach out to our team via admin@carevaluehealth.com to know how we can help your loved ones in Nigeria.
