A comparative study on physical health problems of institutionalized and non- institutionalized elderly in selected communities of Amritsar.

Ms. Ramanjit Kaur

Volume : VIII, Issue : III, March - 2018

A comparative study on physical health problems of institutionalized and non- institutionalized elderly in selected communities of Amritsar.

Ms. Ramanjit Kaur

Abstract :

A comparative study was conducted to assess and compare the physical health problems of institutionalized and non institutionalized elderly in selected communities of Amritsar. The comparative descriptive research design was used. Checklist was used to assess physical health problems of 100 elderly people. Major findings of the study revealed that Institutionalized elders had more physical health problems as compared to non institutionalized elders. Cardiovascular problems among the institutionalized elders were found to be 66% whereas it was 50% in non institutionalized elders. Respiratory problems were more in institutionalized elders (44%) as compared to non institutionalized elders (24%). Gastrointestinal problems among institutionalized elders were reported 76% and 70% in non institutionalized elders. The problems related to nervous system were more prevalent among institutionalized elders (70%) as compared to non institutionalized elders (48%). Genito urinary problems were found nearly equal (36%, 32%) at both places as. Sleep disturbances were more prevalent in institutionalized elders (62%) and it was nearly half (34%) in non institutionalized elders. Institutionalized elders reported more Sensory problems (76%) than non institutionalized elders (52%). Skin itching, impaired skin integrity, weakness, fall & injuries, tremors, unexplained complaint about chronic pain were more common in institutionalized elders (84%) as compared to non institutionalized elders (70%). The association between the physical health problems and age, marital status, occupation, source of income, income, frequency of hospitalization, were found to be statistically significant and gender, education, and history of illness was found to be statistically non significant.