PAYMENT OF PENSION BENEFITS AND HEALTH BEHAVIOURS OF PENSIONERS IN MAKURDI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

This study investigate the impact of pension payment patterns on the health behaviour of pensioners in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State. Specifically, it examines how the timeliness of pension payments affects pensioners’ health-seeking behaviour, identifies common health challenges faced by pensioners’ due to delayed pension payments, analyses the behavioural adjustments made by pensioners in response to irregular payments, and proposes policy recommendations for improving pension administration. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and a sample of 171 pensioners was selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics, including Chi-square tests and Pearson correlation analysis. The result indicate that delayed pension payments significantly affect pensioners’ ability to access nutritious food and healthcare services, leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including reliance on traditional medicine and self-medication. Additionally, pensioners frequently adjust their health behaviours by seeking alternative means of survival, such as petty trading, when pensions are delayed. A strong correlation was found between timely pension payments and improved health-seeking behaviour. Based on these findings, the study recommends the implementation of automated and timely pension payment systems, the establishment of a pensioner health insurance scheme, periodic health check-ups, and greater public awareness regarding pensioners’ welfare. These measures are crucial to enhancing the quality of life and health outcomes for pensioners in the study area.