Epidemiology of disablement in the elderly

Two hundred and four people aged 65 and over, living in private households in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, were questioned about the presence of impairments, disabilities, and handicaps, as well as about their living conditions. Personal care activities, mobility, and domestic duties were most notably restricted in women (in 39, 56, and 29% respectively). Social contacts occurred less than once a week in nearly 25 per cent of the sample, recreational and social occupations were restricted in 40 per cent, and economic resources were insufficient in 25 per cent. The oldest women constituted a group at high risk of being institutionalized. Physical activity restrictions interacted with extrinsic factors so as to lead to social activity restriction. Most of the restricted persons were disabled by limitation of their lower limb, trunk, and upper limb functions. Rheumatic disorders, cardiorespiratory conditions, impairments of the special senses, and traumatic disorders were the most frequent underlying conditions reported.