Language: Spanish
References: 11
Page: 20-24
PDF size: 44.11 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Objective: To improve the quality of life of geriatric patients through an integral rehabilitation program. Material and methods: This was an observational, longitudinal, and prospective study. The sample consisted of 40 patients obtained by a quota. The patients were from both sexes, elder than 60 years old, and with diagnoses of osteoarthritis. Daily activities, social and familiar support, cognitive status and degree of depression were assessed before and after our training program. The program consisted of stretching, flexibility and strength exercises. The statistical «Chi» square test was used for the analysis. Results: At the start of our study, two patients were found to be completely independent; 22 of them were partially dependent for dressing, 12 patients were partially dependent transfer, one was dependent on grooming; two individuals presented dependency on dressing and grooming; and one patient had dependency on dressing, grooming and toileting. At the end of the study, all the patients had improved (p 0.0001). Fifteen patients presented depression at the beginning of the study but, at the end of the trial, they all improved (p 0.0001). Two patients presented impairment cognition at the beginning of the study and, at its end, they had not improved (p 0.692). Two patients were perceived as having little social support at the beginning and the end of the study. In thirty-eight patients, this condition was normal (p 0.692). Every patient was perceived as having a normal family life (p 0.753). Conclusions: The integral program of geriatric rehabilitation improved the level of functional independence and depression. The patients with cognitive impairment did not present positive changes after the program: The perception about family and social support was normal from the start of the study.

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