Assessment of dependency in activities of daily living among the elderly attending a rural health training centre-a cross-sectional study

Background: With the increase in life expectancy, the proportion of elderly individuals in India is rising, leading to a greater burden of chronic diseases and functional disabilities. Activities of daily living (ADL) reflect well-being. Assessing ADL dependency helps identify elderly requiring supportive care. This study assessed ADL dependency among elderly attending a Rural Health Training Centre and examined socio-demographic and morbidity-related factors. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 elderly individuals aged ≥60 years attending the RHTC. Data were collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Functional ability was assessed using the barthel index. Descriptive statistics summarized dependency levels, while the Chi-square test assessed associations. Results: The mean age was 69.3±8.1 years, and 52% were females. The mean Barthel Index score was 90.7±17.4. Overall, 57% were independent, 11% mildly dependent, 23% moderately dependent, 6% severely dependent, and 2% totally dependent. Dependency was more common among participants aged ≥70 years, females, illiterate individuals, and those with chronic morbidities, family stress, or financial dependence. Conclusion: Nearly half of the elderly demonstrated ADL dependency, with mild-to-moderate dependency predominating. Advanced age, poor education, chronic diseases, and family stress were significant predictors. Integrating geriatric assessment, rehabilitation, and supportive services into rural health training centres could promote healthy ageing, preserve functional independence, and improve quality of life among rural elderly.