Assessment of the Morbidity Pattern of Persons Living At Old Age Homes of Ahmedabad City

Abstract

Introduction: Although old age is not a disease in itself; the elder- ly are vulnerable to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular illness, cancers, diabetes, musculoskeletal and mental illnesses leading to impairments and disabilities ultimately affecting the health related quality of life of the elderly and will rise burden on the health sys- tems of country. Main objectives of the research are to study the socio-demographic profile of as well as the physical and mental health problems amongst persons living at selected old age homes of Ahmedabad city.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among total 143 participants living at randomly selected (half of all 12) old age homes of Ahmedabad city. They were asked and assessed accord- ing to proforma for collection of information.

Results: 46.2% participants had pallor.69.9% had osteoarthritis. 39.9% had difficulty in vision.29.4% were suffering from at least one respiratory problems.60.1% had hypertension. 20.3% were suf- fering from diabetes.49.7% were suffering from at least one GIT problem.25.2% had depression.

Conclusion: Osteoarthritis was seen in 7 out of every 10 elderly & was higher in females compared to males. Other major problems were difficulty in hearing & vision, hypertension, constipation, acidity, diabetes in descending order.