Relationship between cognitive status and activities of daily living among the elderly of nursing homes

Abstract

In recent years, increased life expectancy has caused the emergence of aging phenomenon in Iran. This study was conducted on 79 elderly in nursing homes. Data were collected by the demographic questionnaire, Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMTs) and Barthel Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Index. The mean score of AMT was 4.06 (SD: 3.05) and the mean of Barthel Index was 66.15 (SD: 33.27). Results indicated a significantly positive correlation between cognitive status and activities of daily living (P=0.001, r=0.354). Accordingly, cognitive status can be a good predictor of functional independence in activities of daily living for the elderly.