Morbidity problems, functional dependency and adjustment among elders attending outpatient clinics of Benha University Hospital

ABSTRACT

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted during the year 1999. Subjects of this study were 340 elders [148 males and 192 females] chosen randomly from patients or their relatives who were attending the Outpatient Clinics of Benha University Hospital. The aim of the research was to identify the morbidity problems of elders, study their functional dependence and their social and psychological adjustment. The participants were interviewed using a pre-tested questionnaire including personal and sociodemographic data, past and present history of common diseases, smoking habit, daily activities and pattern of utlilization of health services. The target group was subjected to general and systematic medical examination, estimation of blood glucose and assessment of social and psychololgical adjustment. Data management revealed that the majority of the studied group were aged 60-70 years. of poor education and working [75.3%, 71.5%, 62.9% respectively]. The majority [92.1%] of rural residents were living in extended families. High percentage of the studied sample were non-smokers and of poor utilization of health services [77.9%. 74.4% respectively]. The most frequent medical disorder was osteoarthritis and back path [55.3%] followed by hypertension [50.9%]. Bereavement and fear of death were found to be the most injurious psychological insults. About three quarters [76.5%] of elders were functionally independent in activities of daily living [ADLs]. The majority of socially and psychologically adjusted elderly were females, aged 60-70 years. living in rural areas, in extended families and working. The study recommends fully integration of geriatric health services within the primary health care and training of professional personnel in gerontology to perform frequent comprehensive medical examination of the elders and assessment of their functional activities. Multisectoral integrated efforts are required for helping and caring after this vulnerable sector-the elderly group