The Functional Profile, Depressive Symptomatology, and Quality of Life of Older People in the Central Alentejo Region: A Cross-Sectional Study

Fonseca, César; Morgado, Bruno; Alves, Elisabete; Ramos, Ana; Silva, Maria Revés; Pinho, Lara; João, Ana; Lopes, Manuel

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.26/57561

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Abstract(s)

Europe’s aging population presents challenges such as a shrinking labor force, pressure on health services, and increased demand for long-term care. This study assesses the functional profile, depressive symptoms, and quality of life of older adults in the Central Alentejo region of Portugal. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted with a convenience sample of 868 older adults in Portuguese long-term care facilities across the Évora district. A structured questionnaire collected sociodemographic data, elderly nursing core set patient information, a health questionnaire with nine responses, and WHO Quality of Life Assessment (short version) scores. Results: Nearly half of the participants needed assistance with care. Women (OR = 1.46) and those with cognitive impairment (OR = 10.83) had higher impaired functionality, while education (OR = 0.52) and being overweight (OR = 0.52) were inversely related to functional dependence. Quality of life scores ranged from 56.4 (physical) to 66.6 (environmental). Moderate depressive symptoms were found in 17.1% of participants, with 9% having moderately severe to severe symptoms. Higher dependence doubled the likelihood of depressive symptoms (OR = 2.18). Discussion and Conclusions: High rates of depression and functional dependence correlate with a low perception of quality of life, highlighting the need for research to promote and protect the health of older adults.

Keywords

Older adults Aging Quality of life Depression

URI

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.26/57561

Citation

Fonseca, C., Morgado, B., Alves, E., Ramos, A., Silva, M. R., Pinho, L., João, A., & Lopes, M. (2024). The Functional Profile, Depressive Symptomatology, and Quality of Life of Older People in the Central Alentejo Region: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare, 12(22), 2303. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12222303