Geriatric concerns - Activities of daily living, nutrition, social security measures in a coastal South Indian Population -

Background: Globally 10% of the world’s population is elderly and is expected to increase to 21% by 2051. The primary health care system is not geared up to meet the future challenges arising from the increased demands of the geriatric population. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among elderly residing in the rural field practice area of a medical college in coastal Karnataka. Detailed information about socio – demographic profile, activities of daily living and dietary pattern was collected by personal interviews. Results: Of the 247 participants, 172 (70%) were females and 75 (30%) were males. There was no impairment in performing activities of daily living among 93.5% of the population. Half of the study participants (51.8%) were aware of social security schemes available for the elderly. About 119 (48.2%) were insured for health whereas only 22 (8.9%) were insured for life. The diet was deficient in protein and calories among nearly 40% of the elderly. Conclusions: Among the elderly only 6.5% of them had impairment in performing activities of daily living. Over 65% of the individuals were socially secure. Two-fifths of the elderly were consuming a diet deficient both in proteins and calories.