[Functional capacity in those over 60 and related social health factors (the ANCO Project for the Aged of Cordoba)].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the functional status (FS) of the over-60 population in our city, relating it to various social, demographic and health factors.

DESIGN

A descriptive, crossover study.

SETTING

City of Córdoba.

PARTICIPANTS

A sample of 1,103 subjects was obtained by systematic sampling of the non-institutionalised population over 60 years old (N = 49,674), using the latest update of the 1991 census.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Application of the OARS-MFAQ-VE multidimensional questionnaire using a face-to-face home interview. We analysed 14 items from the part of the questionnaire assessing FS. Subjects were classified into three groups. 7.6% (25.0-30.3) needed help to perform at least one AS and 15.9% (13.8-18.2) were unable to perform at least one.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a description of the functional status of the elderly, which for the most part is excellent. Various social and health factors linked to functional incapacity were identified.