Psychosocial Adjustment And Mental Health Of The Aged In Calabar Municipal Area Of Cross River State, Nigeria
Dr. Effiom Bassey Ekeng
Department of Guidance and Counselling, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria.
Dr. (Mrs.) Maria E. Ngwu
Department of Guidance and Counselling, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria.
Dr. Lucy Arop
Department of Guidance and Counselling, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria.
Ugbe Blessing Ushibima
Department of Guidance and Counselling, faculty of educational foundations studies, University of Calabar -Nigeria.
Keywords: Psycho-social, Adjustment, Mental health, Aged
Abstract
The study sought to ascertain the influence of psychosocial adjustment and mental health of the aged in Calabar Municipal Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. The survey design was used for the study. The population consisted of aged people in old peoples home and some people found in the community. Through purposive sampling technique, a sample size of 163 was derived. Two research questions and two hypotheses were raised and a questionnaire titled psychosocial adjustment and mental health of the aged questionnaire was used for data collection [PSAMHQ]. Accruing data was analyzed using independent t.test and one way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The finding of the study showed that interpersonal relationship, adjustment to health and emotional adjustment influences the mental health of the aged. Based on the findings, it was therefore recommended that counselling center that would boost the mental health of the aged be established. The aged could be counselled on the adjustment needs, which includes lifestyle and health needs, social supports, mental exercise would help the aged transit to old age with minimal problems. The aged should carry out regular medical check-ups. Family support is needed at this stage of development.