A Descriptive study on assessment of functional status and quality of life of elderly residing at old age home, Vellore (Tamilnadu)

Mrs.Parimala.R.; Dr.P.Muthumari

Volume : IX, Issue : V, May - 2019

A Descriptive study on assessment of functional status and quality of life of elderly residing at old age home, Vellore (Tamilnadu)

Mrs. Parimala. R. , Dr. P. Muthumari

Abstract :

Health is determined by many economic, social, psychological and physiological factors.. Poor health and morbidity diminish the quality of life and wellbeing of the elderly. Increasing psychological distress and perception of vulnerability, with increase in age and disability becomes a major concern, while it seriously limits the function in daily life and hence increasing the care giving burden. In old age physical strength deteriorates, mental stability diminishes, financial power becomes bleak and eye sight suffers a setback. It is a period of disappointment, dejection, disease, repentance and loneliness. Low levels of physical activity are associated with an increased risk of mortality in people over the age of 65 years. Low levels of physical activity are associated with an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions in people over the age of 65 years. The objective of this descriptive study was to assess the functional status and quality of life elderly. Demographic variables were assessed. The functional status i.e., ADL and IADL was assessed using Katz index of activities of daily living scale and Lawton–Brody instrumental activities of daily living. Quality of life measured by WHO–QOL–BREF questionnaire. Data analysis was done to find the frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and Chi–square to find out the association between the functional status and quality of life with selected demographic variables. The assessment revealed that the majority 93% of elderly were highly dependent on their functional status. 90.7% had poor quality of life and only 9.3% had good quality of life. Chi–square values reveals, there was association between the IADL and Habits of elderly, and QOL was associated with the age, gender, educational qualification, hobbies and history of comorbid illness.