[Functional status of very old people in urban area: the Itabashi Oldest-Old Study I]

Nihon Ronen Igakkai Zasshi. 2005 Mar;42(2):199-208. doi: 10.3143/geriatrics.42.199.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

It is predicted that the future increase in the oldest-old (85 years and older) population will have a marked influence on society. However, little is known about the features of various functions in the oldest-old. The purpose of this study was to clarify the functional status of the oldest-old. We surveyed all oldest-old residents in a small area of Itabashi ward in metropolitan Tokyo to clarify their living conditions. The oldest-old themselves and their family members were invited to participate, and 235 out of 311 residents (75.6%) agreed to do so. Forty-two percent of the participants were dependent and needed care from others. The ADL status measured by the Barthel Index showed that 30% of independent participants also had some deterioration of physical function. These results are indicative of increased frailty in the oldest-old. Comparison between independent and dependent (need care from others in daily living) showed that the functional status was lower in dependent group. However, the psychological well-being was the same in this two groups. These results indicate progressive functional deterioation and psychological adaptation to it, in the oldest-old. Further research to elucidate the process of psychological adaptation to frailty is necessary in order to promote the well-being among the oldest-old, in whom functional limitation is evident.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living*
  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over* / physiology
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment*
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Status Schedule
  • Self Care
  • Urban Health