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Oral Health Assessment by Lay Personnel for Older Adults
Published on: February 2, 2020
Shoulder disorders in the elderly: a community survey.
M D Chard1, R Hazleman, B L Hazleman
1Rheumatology Research Unit, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Arthritis and Rheumatism
|June 1, 1991
Summary
A community survey found that 21% of people over 70 have symptomatic shoulder disorders, with women affected more often. Rotator cuff issues were common, but many did not seek medical help.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Orthopedics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Symptomatic shoulder disorders are prevalent in the elderly population.
- Rotator cuff involvement is a significant factor in shoulder pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of symptomatic shoulder disorders in individuals over 70.
- To identify demographic differences and common causes of shoulder pain in this age group.
- To assess healthcare-seeking behaviors for shoulder symptoms in the elderly.
Main Methods:
- A community-based survey was conducted.
- A sample of 644 elderly individuals (over age 70) participated.
- Data collected included demographics, shoulder disorder presence, pain involvement, and medical attention sought.
Main Results:
- The overall prevalence of symptomatic shoulder disorders was 21%.
- Shoulder disorders were more common in women (25%) than men (17%).
- Approximately 70% of shoulder pain cases involved the rotator cuff, yet fewer than 40% sought medical attention.
Conclusions:
- Symptomatic shoulder disorders are common in the elderly, particularly women.
- Rotator cuff disorders are a major cause of shoulder pain in this demographic.
- There is a need for increased medical awareness and proactive patient engagement regarding elderly shoulder health.
