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Latent dependency classes according to the need for help: a population-based analysis for the older population
Alejandra Marroig1, Guillermo Sánchez-Laguardia2, Maira Colacce2
1Instituto de Estadística, Universidad de la República, Gonzalo Ramírez 1926, Montevideo, 11200, Uruguay. alejandra.marroig@fcea.edu.uy.
BMC Geriatrics
|July 26, 2022
Summary
Dependency among older adults in developing nations varies significantly. This study identified distinct groups needing help with daily activities, highlighting the need for tailored support services for aging populations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Older adults in developing countries face unique challenges with aging, including economic constraints and strained social/health policies.
- Daily living assistance needs increase with age, particularly in community-dwelling older populations.
- Understanding dependency patterns is crucial for effective policy development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the heterogeneity of dependency among older adults in a developing country.
- To identify specific patterns of help needed for Activities of Daily Living (ADL) using a latent class approach.
- To inform targeted interventions for dependent older populations.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 5138 individuals aged 60+ in Uruguay.
- Latent class regression analysis to model dependency patterns.
- Dependency measured by the need for help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL), adjusted for sociodemographic factors.
Main Results:
- Four distinct dependency classes were identified.
- 86.4% of older adults were non-dependent.
- 7.4% required help with instrumental ADL, while 6.2% needed help with all ADL (in two distinct groups). Less educated women were more prone to needing instrumental ADL support.
Conclusions:
- Dependency among older adults is heterogeneous, requiring differentiated service provision.
- Specific needs identified in instrumental and comprehensive ADL support groups necessitate tailored interventions.
- Addressing diverse dependency patterns is essential for supporting aging populations in developing countries.
Keywords:
Activities of daily livingCare dependencyDeveloping countriesLatent class approachOlder adultsMore Related Videos
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