COGNITIVE FUNCTIONALITY OF ELDERLY RESIDENTS IN SOCIAL PROTECTION CENTERS IN CARTAGENA, 2012

Estela Melguizo Herrera; AnaDelCarmen AcostaLopez; Diego Alberto Paternina Osorio

Volume : V, Issue : V, May - 2015

COGNITIVE FUNCTIONALITY OF ELDERLY RESIDENTS IN SOCIAL PROTECTION CENTERS IN CARTAGENA, 2012

Estela Melguizo Herrera, Anadelcarmen Acostalopez, Diego Alberto Paternina Osorio

Abstract :

 Objectives: To determinefactors associated with cognitive functionality of the elderly, residing in nursing  homes in Cartagena, 2012. Methodology: Analytic study of apopulation consisting of 192 elderly residents in Social Protection Centers of  Cartagena.A socio– demographic survey and a mental evaluation test (Pfeiffer) were applied. Results: The participants’ average age was 75; 50.5% were masculine; 68.23% had no partner. 47% showed some degree of mental deterioration: 20.8% mild impairment, 19.2% moderate impairment and 6.7% serious impairment, according to the Pfeiffer scale. The cognitive function most affected was the ability to perform mathematical calculation: 76.2% on the Pfeiffer scale. As age advances cognitive impairment increases. Discussion: Most of the participants show some degree of deterioration in cognitive function whichwas related to age.  The need to implement intervention programs is demonstrated.