Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 14, 2025
Measuring Frailty in HIV-infected Individuals. Identification of Frail Patients is the First Step to Amelioration and Reversal of Frailty
Published on: July 24, 2013
[Epidemiological and Functional Characterization of Older Adults in the Cardiovascular Health and Elderly Programs in
María Victoria Valenzuela Barrios1, Marisa Torres Hidalgo1, Angélica Domínguez1
1Escuela de Salud Pública, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
Abstract:
The rapid increase in the older adult population (OA) in Chile will present challenges associated with chronic diseases and dependency. It is projected that by 2050, older adults will represent 32% of the country's population, with those over 80 years old experiencing the highest growth.
Aim:
Characterize chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCD) and functionality in older adults of the third and fourth age seeking care at Primary Health Care (PHC) Centers within the public system during the year 2018 in Chile.
Material And Methods:
The study design was an analytical cross-sectional observational study. The P series of Monthly Statistical Records from 2018 of older adults aged 65 and over consulting PHC centers nationwide was used. Third age was defined as 65-79 years old, and fourth age as 80 years and older.
Results:
Out of 1.780.439 elderly individuals studied, 76% belonged to the third age group (65-79 years), with 58% being women. The fourth age group (80 years and older) showed a higher prevalence of chronic diseases. Both groups predominantly exhibited self-sufficiency (no risk, at risk, and risk of dependency), with 91,05% in the third age and 67,54% in the fourth age. This represents a dependency 3,63 times higher in the fourth age compared to the third age.
Conclusions:
This study reveals significant differences between the third and fourth age. Recognizing these disparities is crucial for planning interventions and policies that promote better quality of life and autonomy for older adults.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Assessment 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...
01:20Lifestyle Factors and Health
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
01:20Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System I: Cardiac Biomarkers
The essential diagnostic tools for detecting myocardial necrosis and monitoring individuals suspected of having acute coronary syndrome (ACS) include:
Troponins
Troponins, particularly cardiac troponins I and T, are the most precise and sensitive markers of myocardial injury. They are detectable within 4-6 hours of myocardial injury and remain...
01:19Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System II: CRP, Hcy, and Cardiac Natriuretic Peptide Markers
These markers indicate stress or strain on the heart muscle:
Natriuretic Peptides (BNP)
Cardiac myocytes produce these hormones in response to ventricular stretching...
01:27Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies
Medical History
01:27Psychoneuroimmunology: Cardiovascular Disease
A key area of focus in PNI is the relationship between stress and coronary...