Prevalence of Psychiatric Illness among Residents of Old Age Homes in Northern India

Context: There are many factors which compelled older adults to live in old age homes (OAHs) and vulnerable to psychological problems. Studies reported high prevalence of mental health problems (20%-60%) among elderlies of OAHs. Therefore, the study was conducted to explore prevalence of psychiatric illness (PI) among residents of OAHs of Northern India. Settings and Design: The present study was conducted in OAHs of Districts Bareilly, Lucknow, Varanasi, Dehradun, and Haridwar, using cross-sectional descriptive study method. Sample Size were 306 (male - 98 [32.5%] and female n = 208 [68%]) residing in OAHs selected by means of purposive sampling. Subjects and Methods: Inclusion criteria: (a) older adults aged 60 years and above residing in OAHs and able to communicate. (b) Staying in OAHs for 6 months or more. (c) Able to understand comprehends and reply to questions and (d) Giving written informed consent. Exclusion criteria: (a) Residents who declined/not interested to participate in the study. (b) Residents having any sensory impairment/physical health problem which can impede the interview. Research tools were (i) a semi-structured pro forma, (ii) Hindi Mental Status Examination, (iii) Survey psychiatric assessment schedule, and (iv) Schedules for clinical assessment in neuropsychiatry-based clinical interview for diagnosis of PIs according to International Classification of Disease 10. Statistical Analysis Used: The quantitative data obtained was analyzed by means of frequency tables. Results: The results show overall prevalence of PI is 43% among residents of OAHs. The prevalence of PI was found to be higher among females compared to males. Depression was the most common among the residents of OAHs. Conclusions: There is an urgent need of trained professionals to provide professional help for highly prevalent psychiatric disorders among residents of OAHs.