Abstract

CALHA, António; ARRIAGA, Miguel  and  CORDEIRO, Raul. Prevalence of loneliness and depression in the elderly population living in Portalegre historical area. Revista Portuguesa de Enfermagem de Saúde Mental [online]. 2014, n.spe1, pp.9-14. ISSN 1647-2160.

This article presents the results of a research carried out under the project: "Loneliness, depression and quality of life of vulnerable groups of the City of Portalegre". The central aim of the research is to identify the relationship between biopsychosocial factors and health status, depression and loneliness. The methodology was based on the collection of information through a questionnaire to 123 elderly residents in Portalegre (Portugal) historical area. The results indicate that the elderly perceive their health according to gender. Regarding the performance of activities of daily living we identified a high degree of autonomy in the elderly included in the sample. There is evidence that increasing age is associated with a progressive loss of autonomy. Regarding the existence of symptoms of depression were identified, especially among elderly women and a tendency to increase in symptoms associated with age. The general findings point to the need to involve the elderly and take into account the specifics of their situation in the exercise of clinical practice.

Keywords : Aging; Depression; Loneliness.

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