JOURNAL OF LIAONING TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS TOWARDS THE CARE OF THE ELDERLY IN GERONTOLOGY HOMES IN IBADAN METROPOLIS

EKE, Justina Helen, Dr. REGIDOR III Poblete Dioso, ADENIYI, Sarafadeen Diran (Ph.D)

Abstract

This study evaluated the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare workers towards the care of the elderly in gerontology homes within Ibadan Metropolis, Oyo State, Nigeria. Specifically, it assessed the level of knowledge and examined attitudes towards geriatric care among healthcare professionals working in registered homes. A descriptive research design was adopted, and total enumeration was used to include all 83 eligible healthcare workers in the study. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire divided into three sections: socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge (15 yes/no items), and attitude (15 items on a 4-point Likert scale). Descriptive statistics and Chi-square analysis at a 5% significance level were used to analyse the data. Findings showed that healthcare workers possessed relatively strong knowledge in core physical care domains such as fall prevention, pain management, infection control, and mobility promotion. However, significant gaps were identified in cognitive assessment, development of individualised care plans, and awareness of legal and ethical considerations. Only 38.3% of respondents were familiar with geriatric assessment tools, and 39.5% understood the relevance of personalised care. Attitudes towards elderly care were generally positive, reflecting respect and empathy, but emotional strain and lack of confidence in certain areas were reported. Correlation analysis revealed a weak, non-significant negative relationship between knowledge and attitude (r = -0.101, p > 0.05), indicating knowledge alone did not predict positive attitudes. The study recommends continuous professional development focused on psychosocial, legal, and cognitive aspects of elderly care, alongside increased funding and public awareness campaigns. Strengthening training and institutional support is crucial to enhance holistic elderly care in gerontology settings.

Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Healthcare workers, Care, Elderly