Effectiveness of Structured Teaching Program on Knowledge Regarding Management of Selected Physical Health Problems Among Elderly in Selected Old Age Homes in Mangalore

Background Older individuals aged 60 above are frequently stereotyped as feeble dependent and a burden to society. They constitute a significant proportion of patients with health issues such as cancer joint disorders heart disease diabetes hypertension hearing loss and Parkinsonrsquos disease. Providing self-management support can empower elderly individuals to better understand their health condition and actively participate in their health care.Objectives To assess the level of knowledge and evaluate the effectiveness of a structured teaching program STP regarding the management of selected physical health problems among the elderly in selected old age homes.Methods A one group pre-test post -test experimental research design was used for the study. The sample comprised of 95 elderly individuals residing in selected old age homes. The subjects were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.Results A significant difference was found between the pre-test and post-test knowledge levels regarding the management of selected physical health problems among the elderly. However demographic variables such as age religion level of education primary residence before entering the old age home length of stay at old age home marital status and presence of any chronic physical health problems were not significantly associated with knowledge levels.Conclusion The findings of the study revealed that educating the elderly was effective and helpful in enhancing their knowledge regarding the management of selected physical health problems. The study provided valuable insights on selected physical health conditions such as diabetes hypertension osteoarthritis cataract and hearing loss.