Health problems of elderly residing in urban areas, Kathmandu

Abstract

Introduction: Old age is the time associated with biological, psychological and social changes which leads to vulnerable conditions to acquire physical, sychological and social health problems. This study aims to find out the health problems among elderly and to determine the factors associated with health problems.

Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was carried out among 100 elderly who were the members of senior societies of ward number 2 & 14 of Kathmandu valley. Elderly of aged 70 years & above were selected purposively for the study.

Findings: The mean age of the elderly was 77.5 years among them 62% were females. Self reported chronic illnesses among elderly were hypertension 22%, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases 19%, diabetes 15%, cardiac problems and joint problems 11 %. Further, 21% had hearing impairment and 11% had vision impairment. Concerning the functional impairment, 51% were partially dependent in performing some of the activities of daily living. Regarding psychological problems, 34% had mild cognitive impairment and 33% had moderate cognitive impairment. In addition mild depression was identified among 12% of the elderly further, 26% had experienced abuse by their family members. Moreover, there was a statistical association between advanced age and functional impairment. Similarly illiteracy and female sex were significantly associated with cognitive impairment.

Conclusions: Hypertension, chronic pulmonary diseases, diabetes, joint problems are the common physical health problems prevalent among elderly. Functional impairment is higher among increased age elderly. Psychological health problems such as cognitive impairment and depression are identified. Experiences of being abused by the family members are also discerned. Hence, it is recommended to plan health promotional strategies for addressing these old age related health problems. In addition, care of elderly need to be in coordinated with their family members.