Functional status of senior adults in Tlahuac, Mexico City

Abstract

It is important to address the functional status of senior adults because this is an indicator of their capacities to fulfill their basic needs, as well as to have emotional and social wellbeing, and thus to live a life with quality and independence.

The objective of this study was to identify the degree of functionality in seniors 60 years and older who visit four health centers in Tlahuac, Mexico City. Data were collected from June to December 2014.

This was an exploratory study on a convenience sample of 754 senior adults. Five items from the section A of the instrument Senior Adult Functional Status (Evaluación Funcional del Adulto Mayor (EFAM)) were used. The questions were asked in the health centers. Descriptive statistics were performed.

Results: 82% of the seniors showed being independent while 18% were at risk of being dependent. The activities which demonstrated lower percentage of dependence were preparation of their food and performing their domestic tasks,

Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that health professionals should be sensitized to incorporate proposals in their programs to help maintain the functional status of this population. These activities should focus on: physical and mental exercise, good dietary habits, adequate use of time, and stress management.