Capability and dependency in the Newcastle 85+ cohort study. Projections of future care needs
2011

Capability and Dependency in the Newcastle 85+ Cohort Study

Sample size: 841 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Carol Jagger, Joanna C Collerton, Karen Davies, Andew Kingston, Louise A Robinson, Martin P Eccles, Thomas von Zglinicki, Carmen Martin-Ruiz, Oliver F W James, Tom B L Kirkwood, John Bond

Primary Institution: Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University

Hypothesis

To estimate capability and dependency in a cohort of 85 year olds and to project future demand for care.

Conclusion

A significant proportion of the population requires 24-hour care at home or in care homes, with projections suggesting substantial increases in demand for care due to population ageing.

Supporting Evidence

  • 20% of participants reported no difficulty with any of the ADLs.
  • Men were more capable in performing ADLs and more independent than women.
  • Future need for 24-hour care is projected to increase by 82% from 2010 to 2030.

Takeaway

Most 85-year-olds in Newcastle are quite independent, but many still need help, and the number needing full-time care is expected to rise a lot in the coming years.

Methodology

Structured interviews and assessments of daily living activities were conducted with 841 participants aged 85.

Potential Biases

Potential non-response bias may affect population estimates of care needs.

Limitations

The study is based on a specific urban area, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.

Participant Demographics

62% women, 77% lived in standard housing, 13% in sheltered housing, and 10% in care homes.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2318-11-21

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