Citation

Tapia P C, Varela V H, Barra A L, Ubilla V MD, Iturra M V, Collao A C, Silva Z R. Rev. Med. Chile 2010; 138(4): 444-451.

Vernacular Title

Valoracion multidimensional del envejecimiento en la ciudad de Antofagasta.

Affiliation

Departamento de Enfermeria, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Chile. ctapia@uantof.cl

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, Sociedad Medica De Santiago)

DOI

/S0034-98872010000400008

PMID

20668792

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The effects of aging on people must be evaluated to adequate sanitary actions. AIM: To assess the characteristics of older subjects living in Antofagasta, Chile. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross sectional assessment of 602 subjects without dementia, aged more than 60 years (55% females). A socioeconomic and medical history was obtained and Barthel, Lawton, Yesavage depression, Tromp fall risk and Folstein Mini mental scales were applied. RESULTS: Sixty eight percent of subjects had more than six years of studies. Forty six percent had hypertension, 28% had osteoarticular problems, 20% had hypercholesterolemia and 17% diabetes mellitus. Four percent had depression and falls were reported by 35%. Seventy four percent were independent in basic and instrumental activities. Ninety four percent had normal cognitive functions. Age was an important determinant of functional capacity. CONCLUSIONS: The main problems detected in this sample were the risk of falls and the presence of chronic diseases.

Language: es