Abstract:
This research addresses the nutritional gap left between the studies on gerontological
nutrition and nutritional studies of younger persons as administered by caregivers. It
examines the nutritional knowledge and practices which influence the dietary wellbeing
of older adults in three selected towns Wusuta, Vakpo, and Anfoega in Ghana's North
Dayi District. These communities were chosen due to the observed retirees returning to
these areas to spend their later years. Fifty (50) aged individuals and fifty (50)
caregivers, were sampled, employing a qualitative research approach within a case
study design. By providing insights into the unique challenges and opportunities in
these communities, this study contributes to the global body of knowledge on
gerontological nutrition and underscores the need for further localized research to
inform policies and practices. Nutritional knowledge and its impact on nutritional
practices are increasingly critical in today's world, where feeding challenges abound.
Aging brings heightened vulnerability and diminished immune support, and this makes
appropriate nutrition essential for older adults. It was revealed that although the
caregivers had very little or no professional training or tutoring about aged caregiving
and nutrition, they had acquired basic information through exposure; practice,
observation, and by offering assistance to other caregivers of the aged at the household
level which guided their nutritional practices in providing care for the aged.
Description:
A thesis in the Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Health, Allied
Sciences and Home Economics Education, submitted to the School of
Graduate studies, in partial fulfilment
of the requirements for the awards of the degree of
Master of Philosophy
(Food and Nutrition Education)
In the University of Education, Winneba
NOVEMBER 2025
