Analysis of Health Seeking Behavior among the Elderly (≥60 Years) in Bwengu, Mzimba North, Malawi

Abstract Background Health seeking behaviour is one of the major determinants of health of all people including the elderly as it helps to sustain individuals’ wellbeing. However, very few studies have examined the status of health seeking behaviour of the elderly population. This study aimed at analysing health seeking behaviour of the elderly aged 60 years and above. Methods The study design was analytical descriptive cross sectional utilizing the quantitative approach. Using Taro Yamane formula, and an addition of 10% for nonresponse rate, data was collected from a total sample of 287 participants. A non-probability technique of snowball sampling was used to identify the study participants. The collected data was analysed using statistical package, STATA version 17. Results The study results have shown that majority (64%) of the elderly population utilize formal healthcare with 62% having comprehensive health seeking behaviour. Marital status (p=0.003), occupation (p=0.005), place of seeking healthcare services (p=0.001), cost of healthcare services (p=0.025), and satisfaction of the healthcare accessed (p=0.021) were significantly associated with health seeking behaviour among the elderly. Married individuals (COR=3.091, 95% CI: 1.499 - 6.373, p=0.002) and those who were accessing free healthcare (COR=1.896, 95% CI: 1.080 - 3.327, p=0.026) were more likely to seek for health services when they got sick. Individuals who sought care from herbalists/traditional healers (COR=0.403, 95% CI: 0.186 - 0.872, p=0.021), and from other sources like shops and pharmacies (COR=0.403, 95% CI: 0.227-0.691, p=0.001), individuals who were retired/working under non-governmental institutions (COR=0.409, 95% CI: 0.201 - 0.833, p=0.014) and individuals who were not satisfied with the services they accessed (COR=0.513, 95% CI: 0.287 - 0.916, p=0.024) were less likely to seek for healthcare when they got sick. Conclusion We found that individuals who are married and those with access to free healthcare were more likely to seek for health services. Advancement of policies for the elderly people, such as strengthening of mobile clinics would ensure that the elderly access health care services.