Cognitive Impairment and Its Correlation with Co morbidities among Elderly Residing in Old Age Homes in Southern India

Abstract

Background: With aging process, cognitive levels decline which has affected nearly 50 million people worldwide. In view of this, our study aims to estimate the prevalence of cognitive impairment and its correlation with co morbidities among the elderly residing in old age homes in Southern India and determine its various risk factors among them. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried among 330 elderly living in old age homes by using multistage sampling method. Study population included Elderly above the age of 60 and residing in old age homes, who were willing to participate. A pretested structured questionnaire was used. Data was analysed using SPSS. Results: Of the 330 participants, nearly 44% had mild to moderate and 36% had severe cognitive impairment. The odds of developing cognitive impairment were 2.5 times more among individuals who had at least one feature of dementia when compared with those who did not have any symptoms. Conclusion: The strategies of National Programmes for Health Care of Elderly and National Mental Health Program do not cater specifically to cognitive impairment. Level of attention given towards Alzheimer’s disease is more when compared to screening for cognitive impairment which is an early precursor for Alzheimer’s disease.

Keywords

• Geriatrics
• retirement home
• dementia