Investigating the Status of Daily Life Activities (Basic, Instrumental, Advanced) and Related Factors in the Elderly

Activities of daily living allows older adults to maintain their independence. Moreover, demographic variables can affect their ability to perform these activities. The present study was conducted to assess the status of activities of daily living of older adults and associated factors in the city of Bojnurd (urban and rural).

In the present cross-sectional study, a total of 450 older adults were selected by cluster sampling method. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, basic and instrumental life activities questionnaires. Open questions were used to assess advanced activities of daily living. Data were analyzed by SPSS-24 using non-parametric tests.

In assessing necessary activities of daily living, 95.4% of older adults were independent, 3.9% somewhat dependent, and 0.7% dependent, with a mean (standard deviation) of 15.49(1.74), which showed significant relationships with age, chronic diseases, and constant use of medications (P < 0.05). About instrumental activities of daily living, 71.5% of older adults were independent, 16.4% dependent, and 12.1% total dependent, with a mean (standard deviation) of 11.3(3.36), which showed significant relationships in terms of age, gender, education, marital status, chronic diseases, and constant use of medications (P < 0.05). Of participating older adults, 77.9% took part in social activities. These activities had significant relationships with age, gender, education, marital status, income, chronic diseases, and constant medications (P < 0.05).

Demographic factors affect the level of activities of daily living in older adults. Proper planning may improve older adultschr('39') activities and their lifestyle.