Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the occurence of cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms in elderly patients rehabilitated in a Nursing Home Facility (NHF) in Poland.
Material and methods: The study involved a group of 254 patients out of 410 subsequently admitted to NHF in years 2007 - 2010. The group included 205 (80.7%) women, the mean age was 77.7 (± 7.8) years. 52.7% of patients had had a stroke, 29.9% - orthopedic injuries, and 17.3% were suffering from chronic diseases of old age. The patients' mental status was assessed in the first week of their stay by the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15).
Results: Cognitive impairment (MMSE < 24) was found in 71.6% of the patients, mild cognitive impairment (MMSE = 26-24) in 16.5%. The mean MMSE was 18.96 (±6.36). Only 11.8% of the seniors achieved a normal score. The highest percentage of people with dementia was reported among stroke patients (79.1%, 106/134). The mean GDS was 7.30 (±3.37). Over 65% of patients had depressive symptoms at admission (GDS>5). Low mood was detected in nearly 70% of patients hospitalised for orthopedic injuries and after a stroke. The correlation analysis showed a significant relationship between MMSE scores and the age among patients after stroke (p < 0.03).
Conclusions: The results indicate that it is justified and necessary to do screening tests in order to detect cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms at NHFs. Introducing such a protocol enables us to provide patients with essential medical and psychological help, which in turn influences the effectiveness of the physiotherapy process.