Disability among Thai elderly living in Klong Toey slum.

Forty three per cent of the elderly in Klong Toey slum had BAI score less than 20. One point six per cent were moderately severe or severely disabled and needed special care. Around one-third of them caused by stroke. Locomotion, reaching and stretching, dexterity, continence and seeing are common significant types of disability among this population study. Perceived health status, age and working status are independent factors related to disability level. The Barthel ADL index is suitable for using as a tool for a disability survey among Thai elderly. The ODS questionnaire may be applied after considerable modification of the questions concerning behavior and intelligence dimensions.