Neuropsychiatric disorders in institutionalized elderly in south of Santa Catarina (Brazil)

Abstract

Background: The process of aging is associated with the diseases that may compromise the proper functioning of the central nervous system. Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of cognitive decline and depressive symptoms and their relationship with sociodemographic characteristics of institutionalized elderly in three long-stay institutions in south of Santa Catarina. Methods: cross-sectional study was carried out with all institutionalized elderly in Tubarão and Laguna (SC). In this study were interviewed 66 individuals, 60 years of age or older, male and female. The data collection was performed through a standardized questionnaire with sociodemographic characteristics, the Geriatric Depression Scale in the reduced form (GDS-15) and Mini-Mental State Examination. Results: The study population was predominantly female, widowed, mean age 77.3±9.9 years old. Depressive symptoms were present in 62.1% of institutionalized elderly. The cognitive decline was present in 37.87% of the institutionalized elderly. Conclusion: High prevalence of depressive symptoms and cognitive deficits were present in the elderly living in long-stay institutions surveyed. Given these facts, the health service in Brazil should be prepared to evaluate and treat institutionalized elderly, improving the quality of life of elderly patients.