Study of the Morbidity Pattern Among Geriatric Patients Attending a Secondary Care Hospital in Bhubaneswar, Odisha

Background/Purpose: The Indian elderly are more likely to suffer from chronic than acute illness. There is a higher probability of co-morbidities among the elderly population with a higher prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), etc. in Odisha. This exploratory study was conducted to study the pattern of morbidities among elderly attending secondary level health care facilities and is perhaps the first of its kind in this region. Methods: In all, 500 elderly patients attending Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar were enrolled in the study. The socio-demographic and anthropometric profile were correlated with clinical profile. Results: About 60% (301) males and 40% (199) of females were in the age group 60-80 years. 50% (150) males and 35% (70) of females were from urban areas whereas 25% (128) were from rural areas. 29% (143) of the elderly were illiterate. 82% (409) were sedentary and 54% (270) were habitually smoking or consuming tobacco products or alcohol. While majority, i.e., 76% (382) were living alone, 24% (118) were living with family. The socio-economic status of 62% (309) of the elderly was low. A large proportion of the elderly were having poor vision (30%), arthritis (14%), anemia (11%) and hearing impairment