HOME ACCIDENTS EFFECTS ON THE PHYSICAL AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING OF THE AGED

Abstract

This paper examined some of the key issues facing physical and social well-being of the aged people due to home accidents. The study was carried out in Ogun State of Nigeria to determine the effect of home accidents on the physical and social well-being of aged people. Descriptive research design of the ex post facto was adopted for the study. A multi­stage sampling technique was used in the selection of the communities under study. A total number of 500 subjects were randomly selected from the communities under study. . The data collected were analyzed using frequencies, percentages and Chi-Square statistical tools. The findings revealed that for the elderly population the kitchen is a potentially dangerous place for the aged people. This is followed by stair and bathroom at 14.0% respectively. The room and living room also tie 30.0%. The findings of the study revealed that falls are the most commonly occurring home accident that as discovered from the study among the elderly population sampled. The study also established that home accidents have severe effect on the physical and social well-being of the aged. This study therefore recommended that, a greater awareness should be made by the government, stakeholders, Non-government organizations and concerned persons about the danger of home accidents and its effect on the well-being of the aged globally.