The Functional Profile, Depressive Symptomatology, and Quality of Life of Older People in the Central Alentejo Region: A Cross-Sectional Study

Overview

Journal Healthcare (Basel)

Specialty Health Services

Date 2024 Nov 27

PMID 39595500

Authors

Cesar Fonseca

Bruno Morgado

Elisabete Alves

Ana Ramos

Maria Reves Silva

Lara Pinho

Ana Joao

Manuel Lopes

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

: Europe's aging population presents challenges such as a shrinking labor force, pressure on health services, and increased demand for long-term care. This study assesses the functional profile, depressive symptoms, and quality of life of older adults in the Central Alentejo region of Portugal. : A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted with a convenience sample of 868 older adults in Portuguese long-term care facilities across the Évora district. A structured questionnaire collected sociodemographic data, elderly nursing core set patient information, a health questionnaire with nine responses, and WHO Quality of Life Assessment (short version) scores. : Nearly half of the participants needed assistance with care. Women (OR = 1.46) and those with cognitive impairment (OR = 10.83) had higher impaired functionality, while education (OR = 0.52) and being overweight (OR = 0.52) were inversely related to functional dependence. Quality of life scores ranged from 56.4 (physical) to 66.6 (environmental). Moderate depressive symptoms were found in 17.1% of participants, with 9% having moderately severe to severe symptoms. Higher dependence doubled the likelihood of depressive symptoms (OR = 2.18). : High rates of depression and functional dependence correlate with a low perception of quality of life, highlighting the need for research to promote and protect the health of older adults.

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