Prevalence of Morbidity Profile among Geriatric Population in Urban Field Practice Area, Manikeshwari

Abstract

Introduction: India has got the label of “an ageing nation” due to contribution of elderly population to demographic figures increasing day by day. Elderly persons face dual disease burden that is communicable as well as non-communicable diseases. Objectives: To find out prevalence of various geriatric morbidities. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 463 geriatric persons residing in urban field practice area from Jan 2018 to June 2018. Results: Overall prevalence of musculoskeletal problems was found 72.3%. Prevalence of respiratory problems like asthma, tuberculosis etc. was 17.3%. As the age increases number of participants with presence of any morbidities also increases and this difference was found statistically significant. Presence of any morbidity was found higher among widow or widower compared to married participants and this difference was also found statistically significant. Conclusions: Present study shows higher prevalence of morbidities among geriatric population like musculoskeletal disorders, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, impaired vision, anemia etc. Increased life expectancy, rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes all contribute to higher prevalence of morbidities. Lifestyle modification, appropriate delivery of preventive, curative and rehabilitative health care services to geriatric age group would definitely help them to lead a life in a healthy manner.

Keywords

• Prevalence
• geriatric
• morbidity
• life expectancy
• health care services