Health Status and Daily Life Style of the Elderly

Kil, Suk Young; Won, Jong Soon

Abstract

This study was planned and carried out in an attempt to investigate health status and life style. Using a guideline developed by the research open-ended interviews were done with a hundred and sixty Korean elderly people, from April 17, through June 2, 1988. The data were analyzed by frequencies, means, percentile scores and Chi-square test. Major health deviations identified are ; arthritis, blood pressure discrepancies, neuralgia, and powerlessness. Discomfort in relation to elimination(75%) and to rest-activity, especially to the activities of daily living(78%) are experienced ; 11% revealed to be in need of assistance from others. One or more sensory discrepancies are complained by 75% of the subjects. Only 20% of the subjects reported being satisfied with the life-time achievements. Factors revealed that 'descendants' were the major source of pleasure. Leisure hours were spent mostly 'watching TV'. 'Healthy life', 'harmonious family life' and 'frequent communication with the family' were the three most frequent wishes towards their family members. 'Insurance for ageing', 'free health care', 'work', 'cultural facilities' and 'warm attention' were the request toward the society.