Social functioning and survival: A 10-year follow-up study

Although otherwise extensively researched, one aspect of social functioning in older people that has received less attention is its association with staying at home for as long as possible. This 10-year follow-up examines factors of social functioning that support older people's independent living in their own homes and that reduce the risk of mortality. The data were collected in 1991 by a postal questionnaire that was sent to all residents of Turku, Finland, born in 1920. A physical examination was also conducted. Ten years later, in 2001, the mortality rate of this population was determined. The data were examined statistically. Female gender reduced the risk of mortality. In addition, daily outdoor activities, and not needing help (from different sources) were associated with a reduced risk of mortality. No need for help and a more positive attitude towards life reduced the risk of mortality of women. There were found only non-significant trends for men. Having plans for the future also reduced the risk of mortality. The findings of this study offer useful clues for planning the services provided by home health care personnel. In planning these services it is important that home health care workers take into account the differences between women and men customers: men may need and want different things from the home health care service than women do.