Resumo

BAYARRE VEA, Héctor et al. Prevalencia de discapacidad mental en ancianos de los municipios Amancio Rodríguez y Jobabo: 1999. Rev Cubana Salud Pública [online]. 2002, vol.28, n.2, pp.100-111. ISSN 0864-3466.

Mental disability is a frequent health problem in the older age, which limits the quality of life of these individuals. A descriptive study was performed from January 1st to July 31st, 1999 to estimate the prevalence of mental disability of the elderly from Amancio Rodríguez and Jobabo municipalaities. Through a multistage stratified sampling, 557 aged people were selected. Information was taken by means of a minimental state examination. Data processing included rate and percentage calculation. Mental disability of 23,9% was found. Remembering, making calculations and paying attention were the main affected mental processes. Increase of age, female sex, illiteracy and non-working condition were the prevalent factors.

Palavras-chave : MENTAL DISORDERS; GERIATRICS; PREVALENCE.