Predictive factors of self-care capacity in veterans care institution residents.

Abstract

The aim of this research is to determine which factors affect the self-care capacity of veterans self-pay care institution residents and to build a predictive model of their level of independence. Our study included 404 residents of a veterans care institution. Our data collection involved an integrated, multidisciplinary approach. The tools used by each group were all of high validity and reliability. The resulting data was entered into SPSS statistic software, and then analyzed by related coefficients, Mann- Whitney test, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and stepwise multiple regression. This analysis showed that 12.1% of residents were self-care dependent. Residents medical conditions (stoke, arthritis), physical function (tinnitus, fall), cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination score, Geriatric Depression Scale Short-Form score, Acute Confusion Behavior Scale score), and social function (frequency of exercise per week, frequency of visitors), showed correlation with self-care capacity. The predictive model of self-care capacity was built as follows: Self-care predictive value = 93.022 -.274 x GDS score +.196 x MMSE score - 3.222 x Stroke - 1.262 x Arthritis +.225 x Exercise per week. This model explained 10.5% of the total variance. The results of this research can act as a basis for elderly admission to and transfer from veterans care institutions and can be a reference for recommending relevant nursing service. This research also provides important information for those who wish to improve the self-care capacity of care institution residents.