Functional efficiency evaluation for the elderly staying in nursing homes

Abstract

Summary Background: Demographic prognosis show the elderly population increase. Their level of functional efficiency forecasts whether they should be placed in a nursing home or be hospitalized, what is the risk of their death or what are their chances for a long and happy antiquity. The aim of the article was functional efficiency evaluation for the people over 65 years old staying in nursing homes. Material and Methods: In the research we used an authorial questionnaire and the ADL, IADL and NHPPT scales. 411 people (310 women and 101 men) staying in nursing homes were surveyed, with their average age of 79,4+/-7,7. Results: Average number of obtained points at ADL scale for 65-74 years was 4,7+/-1,9 point; 75-84 years 4,8+/-1,6 point; 85 years and more 4,0+/-2,0. Average number of ob-tained points at IADL scale for 65-74 years was 17,8+/-5,3 point; 75-84 years 18,3+/-4,9 point; 85 years and more 15,2+/-4,7. In the test NHPPT the surveyed people obtained the fol-lowing points: for 65-74 years 18,7+/-6,5 point; 75-84 years 19,5+/-5,0 point; 85 years and more 17,8+/-6,2. Conclusions: Better efficiency in basic and complex routine activities was typical for men. Efficiency decreases abruptly for both sexes in the oldest group. Worse results in effi-ciency tests were caused mainly by: age, (85 years and more), widowhood, a considerable grade of disability and depression symptoms.