Evaluation of the Impact of Non-Communicable Diseases on the Quality of Life and Functional Independence of the Elderly in Nigeria

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are of increasing concern for society and national governments, as well as globally due to their high mortality rate. While NCDs are usually associated with elderly people, all ages are at risk, even before birth. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of NCDs on the quality of life and functional independence of the elderly in Nigeria (a case study of Kaduna metropolis). The convenience sampling method was used to recruit a total of 100 participants between the ages of 45 and 70 years. Descriptive statistics was calculated for all variables. The study shows that systolic blood pressure respondents ranked the highest risk factor with 21.1%, diastolic blood pressure ranked second with 17.9%, body mass index ranked third with 12.2% and MVPA ranked the least with 4.4%. This revealed that the major risk factor for non-communicable diseases is systolic blood pressure as noted by respondents records. The study shows that 30-second sit-to-stand test ranked the highest functional performance indicator with 25.6%, Single leg stand test-Right (sec) ranked second with 21.1%, Timed-up-and-go speed (m/sec) ranked third with 14.4%, Single leg stand test-Left (sec) ranked fourth with 13.3%, Left Handgrip strength (kg) ranked fifth with 11.1%, Right Handgrip strength (kg) ranked sixth with 10.1% and predicted peak VO2 max ranked the least with 4.4%. This revealed that the major functional performance indicator is 30-second sit-to-stand test. In conclusion, the burden of NCDs including cardiovascular diseases continues to rise due to factors including lifestyle and socioeconomic changes as well as rural-urban migration with its attendant stress, increasing overweight/ obesity, and dietary indiscretion i.e. Western-style fast foods. As healthcare provider, we can play major roles both in the clinic and beyond in reducing the risks posed by these factors.