[Comparative study of institutionalized and non-institutionalized nonagenarians].

BACKGROUND

The 1992 census showed that 10,470 people over 90 years old lived in Santiago and we do not have information about their general medical status.

AIM

To evaluate and compare quality of life and functional status of free living and institutionalized nonagenarians in Santiago.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

During 24 months, 241 people of 90 years or older were interviewed. One hundred twenty seven (96 female) lived in their own homes and 114 (108 female) lived in institutions. The geriatric evaluation scale, validated in previous studies, was used as the assessment instrument.

RESULTS

Mean age of subjects was 94 years old (range 90 to 106). Eight percent of subjects were bedridden. No differences in general condition, fecal or urinary continence, nutritional status, blood pressure, cognition, sight and hearing acuity, were observed between free living and institutionalized subjects. Free living elders had a significantly higher number of brothers or offspring and 90% were happy with the place where they lived.

CONCLUSIONS

Most nonagenarians in Santiago are in good general medical conditions. Probably, the decision to become institutionalized depends more on lack of family support than on worse medical, functional or mental conditions.