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[Comparative study of institutionalized and non-institutionalized nonagenarians]
1Departamento de Medicina Interna, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile.
Revista Medica De Chile
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Most nonagenarians in Santiago are in good health. Institutionalization appears linked to family support, not declining medical or mental status in these older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine
- Public Health Research
Background:
- Santiago's 1992 census identified over 10,000 nonagenarians.
- Limited data existed on the general medical status of this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess and compare quality of life and functional status.
- To differentiate between free-living and institutionalized nonagenarians in Santiago.
Main Methods:
- A 24-month study interviewed 241 individuals aged 90 and above.
- Participants included 127 free-living and 114 institutionalized nonagenarians.
- The Geriatric Evaluation Scale was employed for assessment.
Main Results:
- The average age was 94 years, with 8% bedridden.
- No significant differences were found in general condition, continence, nutrition, blood pressure, cognition, or sensory acuity.
- Free-living individuals reported more family connections and higher satisfaction with their living situation.
Conclusions:
- The majority of nonagenarians in Santiago exhibit good general medical health.
- The choice for institutionalization may be influenced more by a lack of family support than by poorer health conditions.