CARACTERIZAÇÃO E CORRELAÇÃO DO ESTADO MENTAL E DA CAPACIDADE FUNCIONAL DE IDOSOS ASILADOS COM MAL DE ALZHEIMER NO BRASIL E PARAGUAI

Abstract

The purpose of this study is characterizing and correlating the mental state and functional capacity of institutionalized elderly individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) in Brazil and Paraguay. The study is quantitative descriptive-correlational design. The sample consisted of 50 elderly individuals with AD, aged 60-102 years, in Brazil (n=25) and Paraguay (n=25). Mental state (Mini-Mental State Examination - MMSE) and functional capacity (Functional Activities Questionnaire - PFEFFER) were evaluated as well as a form to identify variables such as gender, age, marital status and schooling. The significance level adopted was p <0,05. It was observed that between Paraguay and Brazil, there was no significant difference in mental state (12,68 vs 13,00, p = 0,299) and functional capacity (22,20 vs 24,44, P <0089). In the correlation between the variables, we observed significant correlations (p <0,05): age and Pfeffer and MMSE (r = -0,451). Through Logistic Regression it was possible to plot the following formulas: PFEFFER_waited = 11,897 + 0,227 (age) - 0,525 (nim). MEEM_waited = 17,567-0,29 (PFEEFER) + 1,045 (schooling). There were no significant differences in functional capacity and mental health among the sample from Brazil and Paraguay. However, significant correlations were found between age and functional capacity; between education and mental state, which established satisfactory multiple regression models.