Study of Morbidity Pattern, Activities of Daily Living and Health Seeking Behavior among Rural Elderly in Jammu District

摘要

Introduction: Elderly are the fastest growing segment of population due to demographic transition. This study was conducted to assess the morbidity pattern, health seeking behaviour and functional status of geriatric age group using Katz index. Methodology: Community based cross sectional study was con-ducted among elderly residing permanently in two villages. Per-sonal interview, general & clinical examination were carried out. ADL scale was used to measure the functional status of elderly. Results: Out of 200 study subjects, 51.5% were males and 48.5% were females, 53.5% males and females were young old followed by middle old 35.5% and oldest old 11%. The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes and cataract was 56.5%, 52.0% and 40.0% respectively and significant association with gender was found for diabetes, hypertension and CVD with gender. Dependency assessed by ADL, showed that 16.0% were partially/ totally dependent and total dependency increased with age. Conclusion: Secondary prevention of health problems of elderly and screening of functional disabilities by primary care physicians should be prioritized.