English summary: CHANGES IN THE FUNCTIONAL ABILITY OF ELDERLY FINNS IN 1993-2005

Background

Functional ability among elderly Finns has improved over time, especially among those aged 74 years or less. However, there have been few studies concerning elderly people aged 75+. This study examined trends in functional capacity during the years 1993-2005 among elderly Finns aged 75-84 years, focusing on difficulties with activities of daily living.

Methods

Data were drawn from nationally representative monitoring surveys on health behaviour among elderly Finns conducted biennially since 1985 by the National Public Health Institute (KTL). Stratified random samples of 300 men and women in the five-year age groups were drawn from the Population registry. The number of respondents in this study was 6475 (3291 men and 3184 women). The average response rate was 77%.

Results

Functional ability among 75-84-year-old Finns has improved during the past 12 years in both men and women. Especially the ability to wash oneself and to dress and undress has improved markedly.

Conclusions

The positive national trends in functional ability are encouraging and indicate that elderly people will be able to enjoy greater independence in the future. This will mean better quality of life and will postpone the need for services to a more advanced age.