The selected aspects of geriatric patients’ functioning evaluation

Abstract

Introduction. As time passes by and the aging proceeds, the state of one’s health also changes. Chronic, progressive illnesses appear and limit one’s self-reliance. The aim of this study was to evaluate chosen functional fitness factors in geriatric patients and to analyze problems in caring.

Material and methods. The study was conducted in 2010 among 109 patients from the Department and Clinic of Geriatrics. Research tools included: the Care Dependency Scale questionnaire (the CDS); Polish version, Katz Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADL) questionnaire, Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) Scale questionnaire.

Results. Everyday and instrumental activities in the surveyed group were estimated at medium to high level. The majority of the patients surveyed were found to be at medium to low level of care dependency in CDS scale. The correlation between values tested for in ADL scale and the dependency on care tested for with CDS scale has been confirmed.

Conclusions. Among the patients surveyed, the most prominent problems included the difficulties in adjusting the proper body position, mobility limitations and limitations in participating in recreational activities outside without help. The remaining needs were met at a medium level. The general assessment of functional capability was estimated at a medium to high level.