Strengthening Physical and Mental Autonomy in the Elderly of the Province of Azuay-Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: Aging is a natural process that involves various changes in the physical and mental abilities of people. In this context, strengthening autonomy in older adults becomes a priority to ensure their well-being and quality of life. Autonomy not only implies the ability to perform daily activities without depending on third parties, but also maintaining the ability to make informed decisions and actively participate in society. Objective: Strengthen the physical and mental autonomy of older adults. Methodology: A quasi-experimental study of time series was conducted with the pretest and posttest design modality of a single group. We worked with 115 older adult participants who contemplated the universe of the two geriatric centers, they were selected through an intentional non-probabilistic sampling of all the inmates. Descriptive statistics were performed through frequencies and percentages, Pearson's Chi-square contrasts were also used and a p<0.05 for statistical significance. Results: Relationship between the degree of dependence of the Katz test and sociodemographic variables, a statistically significant association is identified between the Dependence of Activities of Daily Living with age (p value = 0.000), degree of dependence of the Lewton and Brody test and sociodemographic variables, a statistically significant association can be identified between the Dependence of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living with age (p value = 0.001) and the level of education (p value = 0.041) and the degree of Cognitive Impairment of the Mini Mental and sociodemographic variables, a statistically significant association can be demonstrated between the symptoms compatible with cognitive impairment or dementia with the level of education (p value = 0.001) and the level of education (p value = 0.001). Conclusions: The interventions implemented did not show an improvement in the physical and mental autonomy of older adults, since the results of the post-test were equivalent to those of the pre-test. However, it is important to highlight that maintaining current capabilities is already a significant achievement, especially considering that the natural tendency in this population is progressive deterioration.