Clinical profile and patterns of conditions in geriatric outpatients managed by physiotherapists in a tertiary hospital in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract Background The aging population in Nigeria is rapidly increasing, with significant implications for healthcare systems. This study aimed to profile the clinical characteristics of geriatric outpatients managed by physiotherapists at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria, focusing on prevalent conditions and functional status. Method This retrospective descriptive study reviewed outpatient records of individuals aged 65 years and above who attended physiotherapy sessions at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, between January 2022 and March 2025. Data were obtained from both electronic and paper records and included demographic characteristics, primary diagnoses. Data were summarised using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations where appropriate. Results Out of 160 records, 148 met the criteria. Most patients (62.2%) were aged 65–74 years, and 53.4% were female. Common diagnoses were stroke (39.9%), knee osteoarthritis (20.3%), and lumbar spondylosis (16.2%). Nearly half (49.3%) were independent, 29.1% required assistance, and 21.6% used wheelchairs. Co-morbidities, particularly stroke with osteoarthritis, were frequent. Conclusion The findings revealed that cerebrovascular accidents, knee osteoarthritis, and lumbar spondylosis are key contributors to disability in geriatric outpatients. Addressing these conditions can help tailor physiotherapy to improve older adults’ functional independence and quality of life.