Functional dependency and associated factor in elderly living with relatives

Abstract Introduction Population aging brings many challenges, including family support for the elderly with disabilities. Methods A cross-sectional study with analytical approach, which aimed to estimate the prevalence and factors associated with functional dependence of the elderly living with relatives was performed. The study was the type census, conducted with 191 elderly people who lived with the family and were assisted by the Family Health Strategy. Household interviews were conducted and functional evaluation was made using the Katz Index and the Barthel Index. Results It was observed that 94.2% of the elderly were independent to basic activities and 51.3% independent in instrumental activities of daily living. A joint evaluation, 52.3% of the elderly were independent in both. In the bivariate analysis, the functional dependence was associated with female sex, age higher than 80 years, hospitalizations, heart disease and depression. Conclusion We concluded that the assessment of health of the elderly must take into account many factors, including those related to family issues and functional status.