ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Due to the progressive aging of our population, it is imperative to evaluate the life conditions and health limitations of older people. AIM: To report the results of an integral geriatric evaluation of Mexican older people. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional assessment of 324 older subjects of a median age of 70 years (57% females) beneficiaries of the Mexican Institute of Social Security of the city of Querétaro. Social, demographic, medical, functional and cognitive variables were evaluated. RESULTS: Of the studied subjects, 37% were illiterate, 61% lived with a partner and 47% were dedicated to household activities. Thirty three percent had visual impairment, 54% had hearing impairment, 39% had urinary incontinence, 26% reported falls in the last six months, 34% had nutritional problems, 38% were functionally dependent, 49% had sleeping problems, 25% had cognitive impairment and 25% had depression. CONCLUSIONS: The general health outlook of this population is encouraging, considering that more than half are not functionally impaired.
