Facilitators and barriers to seeking mental health services among older adults in Huruma Estate, Eldoret

Abstract

Background: Psychological disorders like anxiety and depression have become more frequent among older adults (50-80 years) as a result of the changes occurring in society. Some older adults have reported having trouble readjusting to life after retirement. Among older adults in Kenya, living in areas with limited resources little is known regarding the factors that encourage or discourage them to seek mental health services. Objectives: The study had specific objectives which were; to explore the perceptions about mental health, to identify the facilitators and the barriers to seeking mental health services among older adults in Huruma estate, Eldoret. Methods: This study utilized qualitative research design. Respondents totaling 30 both male and female aged 50-80 years, were selected purposively using snowball sampling method. In-depth interviews were conducted utilizing semi-structured questions. The data was analyzed thematically where initially, transcripts were coded, and then, using the coded data, preliminary themes were established to collect information pertinent to the study's objectives. The results were presented in tables and narrations. Permission was sought from the Moi University and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Institutional Research and Ethics Committee (IREC) and the National Commission on Science, Technology, and Innovation (NACOSTI). Results: Age ranges of the participants were 50-59 years 50%, 60-69 years 40%, 70- 80 years 10%. Marital status: single 10%, married 63.3%, divorced 20%, widowed 6.7%. Income sources varied among the respondents: 28% receiving a pension, 22% being employed, 35% engaging in business activities, 11% receiving support from family, and 4% having other sources of income. Majority of respondents 80% (24) rated their mental health as "good," indicating a positive self-perception of their mental well-being. Thematic analysis revealed various facilitators which included awareness of mental health services, confidentiality, availability of support networks and positive past experiences with mental health services. Barriers described by the participants included stigma associated with mental health, fear of being judged, lack of information, financial constraints, limited access to mental health services, cultural or religious beliefs and lack of social support. Conclusion: The findings reveal that older adults often perceive mental health through a lens influenced by stigma, cultural beliefs, and personal experiences, which either impede or encourage their willingness to seek help. The findings also highlight the crucial role of social support systems: family, friends, and religious leaders, in motivating older adults to seek help. Recommendations: There is need for psychoeducation on mental health to be implemented among older adults and their communities to create awareness. In order to make their services more culturally relevant, mental health professionals can tailor the ones they now give to better meet the needs of their elderly patients. Policy makers should provide government subsidies, expand insurance coverage for mental health services, and introduce financial assistance programs.