Factors associated with communication independence in older adults in the community

Abstract

Objective: to describe mean independence overall and by communication domains in older adults in the community, and to ascertain the socio-demographic and health variables associated with higher mean communication independence in elderly. Method: this analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted with 808 older adults in the community. Descriptive, bivariate and multiple linear regression analyses were performed (p<0.05). Results: minimum need for assistance in communication was assessed (6.43±0.77); by domains, the highest communication independence score was obtained in basic needs (6.88 ± 0.51) and the lowest in reading, writing and numerical concepts (5.96±1.63). Higher mean communication independence scores were associated with the 60├80 age group (p<0.001); level of schooling (p<0.001); income greater than one minimum wage (p<0.001); and absence of cognitive decline (p<0.001) and of indications of depressive symptoms (p=0.014). Conclusion: Schooling, lower age, higher income and the absence of cognitive decline and indications of depressive symptoms contributed to greater communication independence.