COMMON PHYSICAL PROBLEMS AMONG THE ELDERLY IN THE LIVINGSTONE DISTRICT IN ZAMBIA: OPPORTUNITIES FOR PHYSIOTHERAPISTS

Authors

  • Passmore Malambo Livingstone General Hospital
  • Margaret Marais University of the Western Cape

Abstract

Introduction: The study identified prevalent physical problems with regard to physiotherapy needs in elderly people in the Livingstone District in Zambia.

Objectives: To identify the physiotherapy needs of common physical problems in the elderly.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design, utilising a quantitative research method and a convenience sampling technique.

Participants: A total of 200 elderly people from the age of 60 years

Setting: Livingstone District in Zambia

Intervention: A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data.

Results: The most common self-reported physical problems identified were musculoskeletal problems, physical inactivity, decreased ability to walk and the need for walking aids. Hypertension was a common cardiovascular disorder.

Conclusion: Physiotherapists are ideally suited to alleviate the discomfort, activity limitation and participation restriction associated with ageing.

Author Biographies

Passmore Malambo, Livingstone General Hospital

Department of Physiotherapy, Livingstone General Hospital, Zambia

Margaret Marais, University of the Western Cape

Department of Physiotherapy, University of the Western Cape

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Published

2020-07-06

How to Cite

Malambo, P., & Marais, M. (2020). COMMON PHYSICAL PROBLEMS AMONG THE ELDERLY IN THE LIVINGSTONE DISTRICT IN ZAMBIA: OPPORTUNITIES FOR PHYSIOTHERAPISTS. Journal of Community and Health Sciences, 1(2). Retrieved from https://www.epubs.ac.za/index.php/jchs/article/view/647

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 2 (2006): Journal of Community and Health Sciences

Section

Articles