GENERAL HEALTH AND DISABILITY STATUS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN NURSING HOME RESIDENTS AND ELDERLY LIVING AT THEIR OWN HOMES

Abstract

Introduction: The objective of this study is to compare the general health and disability status of the elderly living in nursing homes or in their own homes. Materials and Method: The study was carried out in July, 2000 on 367 elderly, aged >= 60, living in two nursing homes in Ankara and at their own houses in three villages of Golbasi. A survey form including descriptive questions, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), the Brief Disability Questionnaire (BDQ), and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was administered to participants. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the GHQ-12 and BDQ mean scores between those living in nursing homes and at home (p<0.05). Scores were higher for those living at nursing homes for both conditions. For those living in nursing homes, the risk factors for increased BDQ scores were being female, suffering from a chronic disease and to having a depression disorder. The risk factor for GHQ-12 was having a depression disorder (p<0.05). Conclusion: We found that the GHQ-12 and BDQ scores were higher for those living in nursing homes compared to those living at home. The GHQ-12 and BDQ should be used as screening tools for the early diagnosis of psychological problems, especially for those living in nursing homes.