“Funcionalidad familiar y depresión en el adulto mayor en Azogues, mayo-octubre 2022”

Abstract

Introduction: The factors associated with aging go hand in hand with the type of family with whom the individual lives, worsening the clinical picture. Objective: To determine the sociodemographic variables associated with family functionality and depression in older adults in Azogues in 2022. Methodology: A quantitative, observational, analytical, cross-sectional, correlational, and cross-sectional study was applied. The sample consisted of 368 older adults residing in Azogues city. Two instruments were used: The Perceived Family Functionality Scale (Family APGAR Questionnaire) and the depression scale of the Center for Epidemiological Studies (CES). Results: The Mini-mental test showed satisfactory reliability, according to Cronbach's alpha (α= .87) and McDonald's omega (ω=.90). According to sociodemographic variables: the mean age was 74.0 (SD=9.47), 66% were women, 52.7% lived in rural areas, 55.4% were married/consensual union, 38.0% attended primary education. Regarding family function, a par of 28 (SD=5.81) and depression, an average of 29 (SD=6.29). Women and single older adults living in rural areas were more depressed, and those who were married/consensual union living in rural areas presented a greater family functionality. A significant relationship was determined between age, family function, and depression. Conclusion: Public strategies should be developed to improve the quality of life in older adults' family context.