Morbidities and its relationship with disability and psychological wellbeing among elderly in Varanasi district Gupta Mohan, PGDGM Scholar, Raj Kshitij, Resident, Mohapatra S.C., Professor Department of Community Medicine, IMS, BHU, Varanasi Online published on 21 March, 2015. Abstract Objective To assess the pattern of morbidity, co-morbidity, and treatment-seeking behaviour among the elderly. To determine the relationship of specific medical and co-morbid conditions with disability and psychological well-being, and also morbidity with socio-demographic variables. Methods This is across-sectional study, using a cluster sampling technique, with a sample of 200 subjects (elderly people over 60 years old) from the urban population of Varanasi City and the rural area of Harahua Block, Varanasi District. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine relationship between various sociodemographic variables and morbidity. Variables that were independently associated with morbidity and perceived health were analyzed. Results Females and the rural elderly were found to have higher mean morbidity. Asthma, COAD, hypertension, osteoarthritis, gastro-intestinal tract disorders, anemia, eye, psychological and neurological problems were significantly associated with both disability and distress. Conclusion More geriatric facilities need to be provided in hospitals and dispensaries. The oldest of the old should be provided free treatment and medicines. Family members need to be educated about the harms of the elder abuse. Top Keywords Geriatric Morbidity, Disability, Elderly psychology. Top |