The use of the functional independence measure in elderly

Abstract

OBJECTIVES

To analyze in scientific publications how the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) has been employed to evaluate the elderly.

METHODS

Integrative review of periodical publications between 2011 and 2015, available online in full-text in Portuguese, English and Spanish.

RESULTS

129 articles were found; after the application of the criteria, they resulted in 21. The studies were categorized into two groups: A) follow or compare scores in FIM (cohort studies, case-control, clinical trials), focusing on rehabilitation, evaluation of programs and changes in the functional level after procedures/interventions; and B) measure/associate the functionality of the elderly (cross-sectional studies), focused on evaluation protocols in elderly health and associations to the caregiver burden, hospital stay, balance, satisfaction with life, cognition and clinical/socio-demographic aspects.

CONCLUSION

The FIM was used in several scenarios of healthcare for the elderly, particularly in rehabilitation and outpatient clinics or health centers.

Keywords:
Geriatric nursing; Aged; Health of the elderly; Activities of daily living.