Correlates of Geriatric Health Problems in the Urban Elderly-A Community Based Study in Bangalore, Karnataka

There is growing evidence that older people are at risk for manifold co morbidities. A thorough examination of the geriatric morbidity and related risk factors are required to improve of health of the elderly.

Community based cross sectional study conducted for one year using a interview schedule by census methodology in elderly ≥ 60 years of age. Data analyzed using SPSS 17.Chi-square test, unadjusted odds ratio with 95%CI were estimated, multiple logistic regression analysis was employed.

Total 416 elderly studied, females 268(64.4%) and males 148(35.6%). On univariate analysis, risk of diabetes mellitus was significantly higher among elderly with non-BPL 59(21.5%), sedentary lifestyle 61(21.4%), literates 28(24.6%). Hypertension risk was significantly higher among females 90(33.5%), sedentary lifestyle 97(34.0%), alcohol users 111(30.5%), tobacco addicts 99(31.6%), non exercising group 105(26.7%). The risk of visual impairment was significantly higher in ≥80 years of age group 19(82.6%), below poverty line 71(50.4%), tobacco users 54(52.4%). Arthritis was significantly higher in ≥80years 19(82.6%), females 156(58.2%), sedentary lifestyle165(57.9%). On multiple logistic regression analysis, illiteracy, sedentary lifestyle, inadequate sleep and lack of Exercise were significantly associated with diabetes mellitus. Female gender, BPL family and sedentary lifestyle were significantly associated with hypertension. Inadequate sleep, illiteracy were significantly associated with visual impairment. For arthritis, increasing age, sedentary lifestyle, were significant.

the study highlights the importance of lifestyle factors in contributing the majority of the chronic non-communicable diseases.