Coping Strategy for Food Security among the Elderly in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

In this study, the coping strategies for food security among the elderly in Ogun state, Southwestern Nigeria was investigated. There is little available data on the elderly in Nigeria living in poor environmental conditions and without any social security. Thus a sampling of 310 household for a cross sectional descriptive survey to assess coping strategy and food security. Methods of data collection: By means of structured household questionnaire demographic and non-demographic variables such as dietary pattern and food security were assessed. The majority had no formal education, worked in the agricultural sector and was of low socioeconomic status. There were slightly more males than females and 88% were food secured. The coping strategies reported were the use of cooperatives (20.7%), banks (0.3%), and daily money savings (9.2%). The coping strategy was significantly related to  socioeconomic status (X²=40.7), age (X²=12.9), family structure (X²=16.5); education (X²=70.1), occupation (X²=30.9), caregiver (X²=79.1) and NGO groups (X²=23.1; P<0.05). Overall, the elderly coping strategy adopted was influenced by economic status, education, income, occupation, food habits, food avoidance and township status. Food security and health status were significantly related (P<0.05).

Keywords: Coping strategy, Elderly, Food security, Nigeria.