“Association between Functional Impairment and Anemia in Geriatric Patients”

Abstract

Background: Anemia is a common condition among geriatric patients and is associated with functional impairment, decreased physical performance, and reduced quality of life. The prevalence and etiology of anemia vary across different populations, with iron deficiency anemia and anemia of chronic disease being the most common causes. Identifying the impact of anemia on functional status and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is essential for optimizing care in elderly individuals. Present study aims to determine the association between anemia and functional impairment in geriatric patients by evaluating functional status using the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) scales. Additionally, the study assesses the severity of anemia, its relationship with comorbidities, and its impact on HRQoL.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the General Medicine outpatient and inpatient departments of Aarupadai Veedu Medical College and Hospital, Pondicherry, over 18 months. A total of 154 geriatric patients (aged ≥65 years) were recruited and divided into two groups: anemic (n=77) and non-anemic (n=77) based on documented hemoglobin levels. Functional status was assessed using ADL and IADL scales, and HRQoL was evaluated using the SF-36 questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the association between anemia and functional impairment, adjusting for confounding factors.

Results: Patients with anemia exhibited functional assessment scores significantly lower in anemic patients, with a mean KATZ index score of 5.09±0.89 compared to 5.56±0.79 in controls (p<0.05) and a mean Lawton Brody index score of 5.36±1.83 compared to 5.73±1.72 in controls (p<0.05). SF-36 scores indicated a significant decline in HRQoL among anemic patients (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The study highlights a significant association between anemia and functional impairment in geriatric patients. Despite comparable demographic characteristics, anemic individuals had lower functional status and HRQoL, emphasizing the need for early detection and management of anemia to preserve functional independence in elderly populations.