Affiliation:
1. Western Australian Centre for Health and Ageing, Medical School University of Western Australia Perth Western Australia Australia
2. Centre for Aboriginal Medical and Dental Health University of Western Australia Perth Western Australia Australia
3. Rural Clinical School of Western Australia University of Western Australia Broome Western Australia Australia
4. The University of Notre Dame Australia Fremantle Western Australia Australia
5. Aged Care, Royal Melbourne Hospital Melbourne Victoria Australia
6. Department of Medicine University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
Abstract
AbstractIntroductionTo better tailor prevention and care strategies, there is a need to identify modifiable factors associated with functional impairment in older Aboriginal people, and related service needs.ObjectiveTo investigate the prevalence and associated factors for functional impairment in older Aboriginal people, and related service needs.DesignCross‐sectional survey of 289 Aboriginal people aged ≥45 years living in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia. Factors associated with functional impairment were explored with logistic regression.Findings41.2% (95% CI 35.6%–47.0%) of participants required assistance with at least one I/ADL, and 26.0% (95% CI 21.2%–31.3%) required assistance with two or more I/ADLs. A core activity limitation (required assistance with showering, dressing or cooking) was reported by 15.9% (95% CI 12.1%–20.6%). In multivariable logistic regression analyses, older age, diabetes, difficulty walking, head injury, higher depression score and worse cognition were associated with needing help with two or more I/ADLs, while older age, history of stroke, higher depression score and worse cognition were associated with the presence of a core activity limitation. The proportion of participants receiving support with I/ADLs ranged from 71.2% to 97.6%. Support was generally provided by family and friends rather than service providers.DiscussionThe key modifiable factors associated with functional impairment in older Aboriginal people living in remote regions are diabetes, depression and cognitive impairment. Services required are transport and socio‐cultural activities, and ensuring support for family providing the majority of care.ConclusionsThis study highlights the need for holistic prevention strategies and care for older Aboriginal people with functional limitations and their families.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council