Identification of predisposing factors and critical incidents with impact on functional decline

Abstract

The study aims to identify predisposing factors and critical incidents that impact functional decline in older adults living in a rural context. It was conducted between February and May 2007 with 94 elderly participants enrolled at the Palmela Health Center. Cognitive ability was assessed in order to exclude individuals with cognitive decline, a questionnaire on predisposing factors and critical incidents was applied, and functionality as well as fear of falling were evaluated. Results showed that women had a lower perception of functionality, that higher perceived functionality was associated with less fear of falling, and that the critical incidents with the greatest impact on functional decline were the number of falls and weight gain. This work served as a basis for further studies that may complement the characterization of the elderly population.