Abstract

MARIN L, Pedro Paulo et al. Assessment of 1497 Chilean nursing home residents, using the Resource Utilization Group method, RUG T-18. Rev. méd. Chile [online]. 2004, vol.132, n.6, pp. 701-706. ISSN 0034-9887.  doi: 10.4067/S0034-98872004000600006.

Background: There is little information about Chilean elderly residents of long term care facilities, regarding their characteristics and need for resources. Aim: To describe main characteristics and resource utilization of residents of one of the largest nursing homes in Chile, Fundación Las Rosas de Ayuda Fraterna. Material and Methods: In a cross sectional and descriptive study, all residents were evaluated using the RUG T-18 method, that assess activities of daily living and the complexity of their clinical situation. Results: We assessed 1497 subjects 60 years old and over (73% women), with an age range of 60-106 years. Thirty six percent had urinary incontinence, 19% required assistance for feeding, and 38% needed help for walking or moving. Fifty seven percent were in the lowest category of complexity, «Institutionalization». Very few residents were in the most demanding categories, no one classified as «Rehabilitation», and only 0.7% were in «Special Care». Conclusions: This study is an important start point to learn more about elderly subjects living in nursing homes in Chile (Rev Méd Chile 2004; 132: 701-6)

Keywords : Aged; Housing for the elderly; Institutionalization.