The Factors Associated with 3-Year Mortality Stratified by Physical and Mental Multimorbidity and Area of Residence Deprivation in Primary Care Community-Living Older Adults

• Published in: Journal of aging and health 2021-08, Vol.33 (7-8), p.545-556
• Main Authors: Vasiliadis, Helen-Maria, Gontijo Guerra, Samantha, Berbiche, Djamal, Pitrou, Isabelle E.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Comorbidity; Continuity of care; Health technology assessment; Mortality; Older people; Primary care; Socioeconomic factors
• ISSN: 0898-2643; 1552-6887
• DOI: 10.1177/0898264321997715

Objectives: To examine the risk factors of mortality stratified by physical and mental multimorbidity (PMM) and area socioeconomic status. Methods: Cox regression analyses were used to study 3-year all-cause mortality in primary care older adults stratified by PMM status, and area of residence material and social deprivation. Results: There were socioeconomic differences in the associations between PMM and mortality. Continuity of care decreased mortality risk in moderately and most deprived areas. Satisfaction with medical consultations decreased mortality risk in moderately deprived areas. Current smoking increased mortality in those living in moderately and most deprived areas. Physical activity reduced mortality only in individuals without PMM. Higher cognition was associated with reduced mortality in individuals living in moderately deprived areas. Discussion: Public health policies should be further encouraged in primary care, aiming at increased continuity of care, quality of interactions with patients, and prevention strategies including smoking cessation programs and physical activity promotion.