Chronic Diseases in Older Adults, Frailty, Functional Decline Geriatric Health, Malnutrition
Conditions
Keywords
Elderly Health, Geriatric Assessment, Nutrition in Older Adults, Functional Status, Chronic Disease Burden, Rural Health, Upper Egypt
Brief summary
This study aims to assess the health, nutrition, functional status, and quality of life of older adults living in Al-Boura village in Assiut, Egypt. It is an observational, community-based study that includes adults aged 60 years and above. Participants will complete interviews covering medical history, lifestyle behaviors, functional ability, mental health, nutrition, and quality of life. Physical measurements such as weight, height, blood pressure, and simple clinical assessments will also be performed. The goal of the study is to describe the current health needs of the elderly population and identify risk factors for chronic diseases, malnutrition, and functional decline. The results will help guide local health services and future elderly-care programs in Upper Egypt. No treatments or interventions will be given as part of this study.
Detailed description
This community-based observational study aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the health status, nutritional profile, functional ability, mental health, and quality of life of older adults residing in Al-Boura village in Assiut, Upper Egypt. The study is designed to describe the current health needs of individuals aged 60 years and above through structured interviews, standardized assessment tools, and objective anthropometric and clinical measurements. Participants will be evaluated using validated instruments covering chronic disease history, medication use, health behaviors, activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), cognitive status, depression, frailty, nutritional risk, and quality of life. Physical examinations will include measurements such as weight, height, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, mid-upper arm circumference, and waist circumference. The study does not involve any interventions, randomization, or treatment allocation. The primary objective is to identify the prevalence of chronic conditions, malnutrition, functional decline, frailty, and psychosocial challenges among the elderly population in rural settings. Secondary objectives include identifying associated factors, mapping unmet health needs, and generating evidence to support planning and implementation of elderly-focused health programs in Upper Egypt. Findings from this study are expected to guide the development of community health strategies and inform future public health interventions aimed at improving elderly care and reducing disease burden in resource-limited rural areas.
Interventions
None listed
Sponsors
Study design
Eligibility
Inclusion criteria
* Age ≥ 60 years * Resident in the selected rural village in Assiut * Able to communicate and respond to interview questions * Provides informed consent to participate
Exclusion criteria
* Bedridden or severely ill preventing participation * Severe cognitive impairment preventing interview * Refusal to participate
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Prevalence of Geriatric Health Problems | At baseline (single assessment at time of interview) | Proportion of older adults (≥60 years) identified with one or more geriatric health problems assessed during the study visit, including chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes), functional limitation, cognitive impairment, malnutrition risk, depression, polypharmacy, and sensory impairment. These assessments are conducted through structured questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and clinical examinations. |
Countries
Egypt