Knowledge and Attitude of Care Givers towards Elderly Care in Family Settings in Selected Government Areas of Ibadan Oyo State

Abstract

The issue of elderly care remains a global public health challenge, with most elderly individuals
relying on family members for support. While much research has highlighted the burden of
caregiving, little attention has been paid to caregivers’ knowledge and attitude toward home-based
elderly care. This study assessed caregivers’ knowledge and attitude of Elderly Care in Family
Settings (ECIFS) in Lagelu and Ibadan North East Local Government Areas of Oyo State, Nigeria.
Guided by the Theory of Planned Behaviour, a descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted. A
multistage sampling technique selected 300 respondents, and data were collected using a validated,
structured questionnaire. Analysis involved descriptive statistics, Pearson chi-square, and mean
scores. Findings revealed that the mean age of respondents was 36.8 ± 11.3 years. Over half had
good knowledge (57.7%) and a positive attitude (57.7%) toward ECIFS. A significant association
was observed between knowledge and perception (p = 0.006; χ² = 10.10, df = 2). Sociodemographic
factors including age (p = 0.015), educational qualification (p = 0.035), marital status
(p = 0.025), and residence (p = 0.013) were significantly associated with attitude, while gender
and occupation were not. However, none of the socio-demographic variables significantly
influenced knowledge. The study concludes that although caregivers generally exhibited good
knowledge and positive attitudes toward ECIFS, certain gaps persist that may undermine care
quality. It recommends intensified public health campaigns to improve awareness and
preparedness for elderly care, targeting caregivers and the wider community.