Age-Related Health Hazards in Old Patients with First-Time Referral to a Rheumatologist : A Descriptive Study

Abstract EN

Objective.

To study the prevalence of generic age-related health hazards in elderly patient referred to a rheumatologist.

Methods.

Patients aged 75 or older referred to a specialized gerontorheumatological outpatient service over a period of 2 years were studied prospectively to determine the prevalence of comorbidities, a history of falls, inactivity, cognitive dysfunction, loneliness, and depression in this patient group.

Results.

A group of 154 patients were included in the study.

Comorbidities were observed in 88% of the patients.

At least one fall was reported in the last year by 44% of the patients; 44% of the patients reported low levels of health-enhancing physical activity.

Depressed mood and loneliness were elevated in 30% and 31% of the patients, respectively.

Mild or moderate cognitive impairment was observed in 13% of the patients.

Conclusion.

Patients in this study were characterized by poor physical ability, high levels of pain, and high prevalence of age-related health hazards.