Functional level, physical activity and wellbeing in nursing home residents in three Nordic countries

• Published in: Aging clinical and experimental research 2011-10, Vol.23 (5-6), p.413-420
• Main Authors: Grönstedt, Helena, Hellström, Karin, Bergland, Astrid, Helbostad, Jorunn L, Puggaard, Lis, Andresen, Mette, Granbo, Randi, Frändin, Kerstin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Elderly; functional level; MEDICIN; MEDICINE; Nordic countries; nursing home; wellbeing
• ISSN: 1594-0667; 1720-8319
• DOI: 10.3275/7507

BACKGROUND AND AIMSThe main aim of this study was to describe physical and cognitive function and wellbeing among nursing home residents in three Nordic countries. A second aim was to compare groups of differing ages, levels of dependency in daily life activities (ADL), degree of fall-related self-efficacy, wellbeing and cognitive function. METHODS322 residents from nursing homes in Sweden, Norway and Denmark were included. Physical and cognitive function, level of physical activity and wellbeing were assessed by means of reliable and valid instruments. RESULTSThe mean age of participants was 85 years. Sixty percent could rise from a chair and 64% could walk independently. Men were younger and more physically active than women. Participants with a high level of dependency in ADL had lower physical and cognitive functions, were less physically active, and had lower fall-related self-efficacy than participants less dependent in ADL. Participants with low cognitive function had high fall-related self-efficacy. CONCLUSIONSThese data demonstrate that elderly residents in nursing homes in Sweden, Norway and Denmark are frail but heterogeneous. Significant differences in physical activity, physical function and dependency in ADL were seen in relation to age, fall-related self-efficacy, wellbeing and cognitive function.