Functional independence level and cognitive deficit in elderly individuals with Alzheimer's disease

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of the functional independence level of elderly individuals with Alzheimer's disease, according to cognitive assessment scores. Participants were 67 elderly individuals who received care in the Behavioral Neurology Outpatient Clinic of Hospital das Clinicas in Ribeirão Preto. Participants were evaluated in 2008 through a questionnaire for socio-demographic data, Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and the mini-mental state examination (MMSE). The cognitive deficit influenced the performance in carrying out activities of daily living. The average FIM for elderly people without cognitive deficit was 107.7 and for individuals with deficit, 63.2 (p<0.001). Average FIM motor scores were 81.7 and 49.4 (p<0.001), and FIM cognitive scores were 25.7 and 13.8 (p<0.001), respectively. Knowing the reduction of independence and cognitive capacity is essential to maintain the provision of the basic needs of daily life. The study can support nurses' practice, improving elderly individuals and their families' living conditions.