Citation

Ruelas González MG, Salgado de Snyder VN. Salud Publica Mex. 2008; 50(6): 463-471.

Vernacular Title

Lesiones accidentales en adultos mayores: un reto para los sistemas de salud.

Affiliation

Centro de Investigacion en Sistemas de Salud, Instituto Nacional de Salud Publica, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Instituto Nacional de Salud Publica)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

19039435

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To identify factors (sociodemographic, health, and social support) associated with the presence of accidental injuries in older adults living in deprived urban neighborhoods in four Mexican municipalities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional survey carried out in 2004-2005, with a non-probabilistic, intentional sample of 799 male and female elderly living in deprived urban areas in four Mexican municipalities. For the statistical analysis, non-parametric tests and multivariate logistic regression models were used. RESULTS: More than a third (37%) of the sample reported injuries; with falls being the main cause. Home was the venue where most accidents took place (52%). Risk factors for accidental injuries were: advanced age, working, greater number of illnesses, consumption of more medicines and remedies, self-perception of"poor"health , consumption of alcoholic beverages, inadequate family support and being a caretaker of others. CONCLUSIONS: The multi-causality of accidental injuries in older adults demands the participation of all sectors of society, and particularly public health interventions.

Language: es