An exploratory study on the quality of life of elderly living in rental units infested with bedbugs

• Main Author: Eu, Zoe Zu Er
• Other Authors: Kamaludeen Bin Mohamed Nasir
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2016
• Subjects: DRNTU::Humanities
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/66053
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Newspaper articles have demonstrated the prevalence of bedbug infestations in rental units. However, there is a dearth of knowledge regarding the extent of distress caused by bedbug infestations. This study explores the elderly’s experiences with bedbug infestations and seeks to understand the significance of social dynamics in low-income community. Drawing on in-depth interview data, it was found that social stigma coupled with high levels of stress, sleep deprivation, itching and paranoia compromised the elderly’s Quality of Life. Bedbug infestations had an impact on the elderly’s sense of self. Another key theme that emerged was frustration in controlling bedbug infestations. The elderly’s unwillingness to discard their possession, lack of knowledge regarding the causes of bedbug infestations and decreased physical abilities to maintain cleanliness in the unit were key factors in the resurgence of bedbugs. This paper calls for the need to educate the elderly about prevention of bedbug infestations.