Residents in Institutions for Older Adults: Characteristics and their Relationship with the Institution

Abstract

Population aging and the reduction in the availability of family caregivers have driven the demand for care for older adults in long-term care facilities (LTCF). This study aimed to characterize the sociodemographic, functional, cognitive and emotional aspects of residents of philanthropic LTCF in a medium-sized Brazilian city. This study also sought to correlate variables in residents’ life and their levels of depression and cognitive performance. Cognitive (MMSE and ACE-R) and mood screening instruments (GDS-15) and a guided interview were applied to 78 residents. Generally, residents were White, single/widowed, independent women showing depressive symptoms (52%) and cognitive impairment (74%). Most participants reported satisfaction with the care offered by the LTCF, but this satisfaction was negatively correlated with the depression score. This profile suggests the need for an institutional arrangement that considers the needs of residents and promotes their quality of life.