Survival Risks for Older People in Botswana
Author Information
Author(s): Clausen Thomas, Wilson Adrian O, Molebatsi Robert M, Holmboe-Ottesen Gerd
Primary Institution: University of Oslo
Hypothesis
Diminished mental and physical function and lack of social support are associated with shorter survival in community dwelling older persons of Botswana.
Conclusion
Older community dwelling persons with diminished cognitive or physical function, solitary daily meals, and living in a small household have a significantly increased risk of rapid deterioration and death.
Supporting Evidence
- Overall mortality rate was 10.9 per 100 person years.
- Age-adjusted odds ratios for death during follow-up were 4.2 for diminished physical function and 3.6 for cognitive function.
- Indicators of limited social support yielded age-adjusted ORs of 4.3 for small households and 6.7 for eating alone.
Takeaway
Older people in Botswana who are not physically or mentally strong and who live alone are more likely to die sooner.
Methodology
A national population-based prospective survey was conducted, including interviews and clinical assessments of cognitive and physical function.
Potential Biases
Potential observer bias in age reporting due to reliance on national identity cards.
Limitations
The short follow-up period limited the number of deceased registered, and the sample size restricted the number of covariates for analysis.
Participant Demographics
Participants were community-dwelling persons aged 60 years and over, with a median age of 71 years, predominantly living in rural areas.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
CI 1.4–12.5
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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