Morbidity pattern in the elderly population attending geriatric OPD at the rural health centre of a Tertiary care Medical College Hospital in Central India: A Descriptive study

Abstract

Background:India is an ageing nation, with 8 % of its population being more than 60 years old. There is a need to be focus on the medical and socioeconomic problems that are being faced by older adults. A thorough examination of geriatric morbidity factors are required to improve the delivery of health care to the elderly. Aim&Objective:To assess the morbidity pattern in the elderly population attending geriatric OPD at the rural health centre of a Tertiary care Medical College Hospital in Central India. Method:A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at the geriatric OPD of rural healthcentre.A total of 172 people above 60 years  were selected and interviewed,and complete clinical examinations were performed.Result:Among the 172 study subjects, 91 (52.9%) were males, and 81 (47.1%) were females, 65.7% of the study population belong to the age group of 60 – 69. The significant morbidities were dental, cataract, hypertension, and musculoskeletal problems. Most of the study population feels neglected and expecting support form their family. In the age group >80, hearing loss and 60-69 age group cataract and dental problems are the most common issues. Conclusion:Degenerative diseases were the common morbidities in this elderly population. The most common problems were dental and followed by cataract, hypertension, musculoskeletal. In the above 80 years of age group loss of hearing and 60-69 age group cataract, loss of teeth were significant problems.