Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 25, 2026

Assessment of Dependence in Activities of Daily Living Among Older Patients in an Acute Care Unit
Published on: September 30, 2020
Impact of cardiovascular diseases on activity limitations and need for help among older persons
Anna Kattainen1, Seppo Koskinen, Antti Reunanen
1Department of Health and Functional Capacity, National Public Health Institute, Mannerheimintie 166, 00300 Helsinki, Finland. anna.kattainen@ktl.fi
Background And Objective:
The aim of this study was to estimate the importance of specific chronic cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) as determinants of disability.
Methods:
One thousand two hundred eighty-eight (86%) participants from a random population sample of 1,500 individuals (from two geographical regions of Finland) aged 65-74 years were interviewed and clinically examined in 1997.
Results:
CVDs were strongly associated with disability. However, mental disorders were the strongest determinant of disability. Of specific CVDs, cerebrovascular diseases in men, and myocardial infarction, heart failure, and cerebrovascular diseases in women were significantly associated with disability after adjustment for age and comorbidity. In men 33% and in women 24% of disability was attributable to CVD, excluding lone hypertension.
Conclusion:
CVDs are important determinants of disability among Finns aged 65-74 years. Due to the growing number of elderly people with CVDs, disability associated with these diseases is likely to become a growing social and health burden to the community.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System I: Subjective Data
Initial Enquiry
Ask the patient about their primary concern and thoroughly explore all reported symptoms.
Medical History
Investigate past illnesses affecting the cardiovascular system, such as angina, anemia, rheumatic fever, congenital heart disease, stroke, thrombophlebitis, dysrhythmias, varicosities
Inquire about symptoms...
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Heart Failure VII: Nursing Interventions
Exercise and Cardiac Output
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
