DEPRESSION AND FUNCTION CAPACITY OF ELDERLY RESIDENTS IN LONG-STAY INSTITUTION

The Brazilian age scenario has been in discussion since the beginning of the century. Life expectancy has increased to 78 years in 2030, 7.74 years longer than in 2000. The percentage of institutionalized elderly in developed countries is higher than in Brazil. However, they live less in Brazil, due to quality of life. Unattended depression related to high functional dependence is a constantly overlooked factor, explaining the difference of perspective. Functional assessment determines not only the functional impairment of elderly, but also their need for aid, which relates to isolation and denial in reducing perception of the environment, affecting this environment and contributing to the development of diseases, including depression. Students of a medicine program in Araguari-MG observed and statistically verified these statements in weekly visits to a Long-Stay Institution (LTCF), in 2015, to evaluate depression and its relationship with functional capacity in elderly, through multidimensional evaluation. A correlative and comparative study was held, considering the variables: severe depression, mild, absent and not dependent, dependency and high dependency. The subjects were 32 elderly (17 women and 15 men), average age of 69 years. The exclusion criteria excluded 16 residents (10 women and 6 men) for inability or refusal to answer. The used tests were Pfeffer Questionnaire (PFAQ), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Berg Balance Scale Test and Shumway-Cook & Woollacott Assessment (2003). Correlation between functional capacity, depression and LTCFs was identified. The brief perception of the presented symptoms and prevention of clinical findings was evident, anticipating a worsening of symptoms.