The Frequency of Multifactorial Syndromes in Geriatrics of Tuzla Canton Population.

Abstract

Introduction:There are four main multifactorial syndromes in geriatrics the so-called “4N”, which specifically occur at elderly patients. Listed syndromes often occur related, and they can be the cause and the result of many other syndromes at geriatric patients.Objective:determine the difference in the assessment of the level of immobility, instability, dependence, urinary incontinence (“4N”) in elderly groups.Materials and methods:The research included total 200 elderly respondents experimental group made of elderly persons (>65 years) living alone. Control group included elderly persons living in a family environment. Universal geriatric questionnaire was made for this research. For fast orientation the redone questionnaire was used for our conditions: examination in clinics for usual elderly problems “Short list for examination”. For the assessment of the mental abilities reduction at elderly we used “Short portable mental status questionnaire” (SPMSQ).Results:In total sample the research included 200 elderly respondents, 45% in experimental group and 55% in control group. The average age (±SD) was 75,4±6,2 years in the experimental group, while in the control group the average age was 74,9±5,6 years. We notice nearly equal distribution of falling risk according to groups (50%, 47%). In total sample there were 62% mobile, 22,5% limited mobility, and 4% immobile. Dependence frequency was more represented at examination group respondents (p=0,002). Dependence chances (OR) were 2,05 times larger (95 %CI=1,12-3,75) in examination group than in control group respondents. Frequency of urinary incontinence problem is significantly represented at all our respondents (42,2% v.s. 35%).Conclusion:Permanent gerontology and geriatrics training is needed both family medicine doctors and other experts in the field of elderly health protection and preventive health measures, pharmacotherapy, palliative care, especially about four main geriatrics syndromes at elderly.