The Factors Affecting the Constipation of the Elderly at Nursing Homes

노인의 변비관련 요인 - 요양시설 거주 노인을 중심으로-

  • Lee, Ki-Nam (Nam-Gu Health Conter at Pohang) ;
  • Sung, Ki-Wol (Department of Nursing, School of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu)
  • 이기남 (포항시 남구보건소) ;
  • 성기월 (대구가톨릭대학교의과대학 간호학과)
  • Published : 2008.12.31

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify factors affecting the constipation of the elderly at nursing homes. Method: A total of 184 elders at 7 nursing homes in P City participated. Information about constipation status (Constipation Assessment Scale). functional status (Katz' Activities of Daily Living). nutritional status (Mini-Nutritional Assessment). and depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form Korea version) were collected through interviews. Descriptive statistics. Chi-square test. and t-test were used to describe and compare the non constipation group and the constipation group. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors affecting constipation status. Results: The prevalence of constipation was 47.5% (Men 37%. women 51%). Elders suffering from a disease (P=.021) and having low sleep satisfaction (P= .000) were more likely to be constipated than those who did not. The factors affecting the constipation of the elderly at nursing homes were gender (OR=3.558), sleep satisfaction (OR=.580), and depressive symptoms (OR=1.132). Conclusion: According to the result, to reduce the constipation rate of old women at nursing homes, we have to develop guidelines that can solve problems related to constipation cause by sleep-satisfaction and depressive symptoms.

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