Sambangi Appala Naidu
BACKGROUND
The elderly are one of the most vulnerable and high-risk groups in terms of health and their health-seeking behaviour is crucial in any society.
The aim of the study is to assess the morbidity profile among the elderly population aged 60 years and above.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A community-based, cross-sectional, observational study was carried out in the Rural Health and Training Centre (RHTC), Simhachalam, attached to Community Medicine Department, Andhra Medical College, Visakhapatnam. A convenient sample of 100 elderly individuals were considered as study subjects. Semi-structured pre-tested interview schedule has been used in interviewing the subjects. General physical examination and checking of individual medical records has been done. Data was entered using Microsoft excel and analysis was done by SPSS 20, trial version. Relevant statistical tests like Chi-square were applied. Ethical considerations- An informed and written consent was taken from all the participants before conducting the study.
RESULTS
In our study, it was observed that visual problems was the commonest morbidity, 72% were suffering from it followed by musculoskeletal problems and cardiovascular problems,29% elderly were having dental problems, 24%were having endocrine/DM-2 problems, ENT/hearing loss 23%, gastrointestinal problems 21%, 15%were having pallor, 12% skin problems, CNS or cerebrovascular problem 12% and respiratory problems 3%.One individual suffering with genitourinary problems and one elderly was having malignancy.
CONCLUSION
The prevalence of morbidity among elderly aged 60 years and above was high. Hence, special clinics for elderly need to be organised and integrated services should be provided.
