Activity limitation and participation restriction to among the elderly in North India: determinants and related management practices

Abstract

Abstract Background: Eight percent of India’s population is aged over 60 years. This study was done among the elderly in a city in North India to (i) ascertain the level of Activity Limitation (AL) and Participation Restriction (PR), (ii) determine the factors affecting AL and PR, and (iii) ascertain their management practices. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Chandigarh, India during January–May 2012 among 100 elderly each from rural (villages), urban (sectors), and slum (colonies) areas. AL and PR were assessed according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) Questionnaire. Results: Severe AL was reported by 32%, 2% had no AL, 18% had PR, and 8% had severe PR. AL increased with age (p=0.002); AL was more prevalent in rural areas (p=0.015). PR was higher in the elderly living with their families (p=0.003). Assistive and Enabling Devices (AEDs) included spectacles and hearing aids. A walking stick was the most common AED used. Conclusions: AL was significantly more prevalent in the elderly aged above 70 years. PR was significantly more prevalent in the elderly staying with families. Spectacle use was very low in slum areas.