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Evaluation of functionality and disability of older elderly outpatients using the WHODAS 2.0

Abstract

Objectives:

To analyze the level of functionality and disability of older elderly persons receiving care at a university hospital in Curitiba, Paraná, and identify functional differences between men and women.

Method:

A descriptive, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach, based on a convenience sample of elderly persons receiving outpatient care, was undertaken. The Brazilian version of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0).

Results:

A total of 28 people with a mean age of 86.21 (±4.17) were evaluated. Of these 50.0 % were male, 46.4 % were widowed, and 57.1 % performed the evaluated activities independently. There were no significant differences between genders in terms of age (p≤0.635) or years of study (p≤0.329), although women showed a higher level of disability than men in general (p≤0.16).

Conclusion:

The WHODAS 2.0 proved to be a sensitive tool for the analysis and comparison of the level of functionality of the older elderly. However, it is important to develop prospective studies, with non-convenience samples, for a better reflection on the disability and functionality of older elderly persons.

Keywords:
Aged 80 and over; Longevity; Ambulatory Care; Aging; Chronic Limitation of Activity.

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