Exploring Media Use for Health Information Seeking among Elderly Slum Dwellers in Kenya

This study investigates how elderly residents of Kibera, one of Africa's largest informal settlements, use media to access health information and enhance health communication in Kenya. Employing a phenomenological research design and purposive sampling, data were collected from 30 elderly participants, a doctor, dietician, pharmacist, social worker, health ministry official, and communications expert through interviews and focus group discussions. Findings reveal that older adults engage with various media channels, including radio, television, phone calls, WhatsApp, SMS, Facebook, and websites to listen to health programmes, consult experts, and manage chronic conditions. Thematic analysis shows that media use promotes beneficial health behaviours such as physical activity, healthy eating, and stress management. The study also highlights the role of media in empowering elderly slum dwellers with accessible health information and recommends a multi-dimensional communication strategy to serve this vulnerable population better.