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Functional disability and associated factors among older Zuni Indians
Margaret P Moss1, Yvette D Roubideaux, Clemma Jacobsen
1University of Minnesota School of Nursing, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA. mossx015@umn.edu
Journal of Cross-Cultural Gerontology
|February 10, 2004
Summary
Functional disability is prevalent among American Indian elders, with bathing and walking limitations being common. Poorer health and less exercise are linked to increased Activities of Daily Living (ADL) limitations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Limited research exists on functional disability in American Indian elderly.
- Understanding factors influencing disability is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe functional disability extent in American Indian elders.
- To identify demographic, socioeconomic, and health factors associated with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) limitations.
Main Methods:
- Secondary data analysis of a survey of American Indian elders.
- Functional disability measured by ADL limitations.
- Multiple linear regression used to identify associated factors.
Main Results:
- 40% reported limitations in bathing, 31% in walking, 22% in dressing.
- Poorer health status, less frequent exercise, and higher use of elder care services correlated with more ADL limitations.
- Reported rates of functional disability exceeded national averages for all races.
Conclusions:
- Functional disability is a significant issue for American Indian elders.
- Health status and lifestyle factors are associated with ADL limitations.
- Further research is needed to inform long-term care services for this population.