[Cross sectional geriatric assessment of Mexican older people].

BACKGROUND Due to the progressive aging of our population, it is imperative to evaluate the life conditions and health limitations of older people. AIM To report the results of an integral geriatric evaluation of Mexican older people. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional assessment of 324 older subjects of a median age of 70 years (57% females) beneficiaries of the Mexican Institute of Social Security of the city of Querétaro. Social, demographic, medical, functional and cognitive variables were evaluated. RESULTS Of the studied subjects, 37% were illiterate, 61% lived with a partner and 47% were dedicated to household activities. Thirty three percent had visual impairment, 54% had hearing impairment, 39% had urinary incontinence, 26% reported falls in the last six months, 34% had nutritional problems, 38% were functionally dependent, 49% had sleeping problems, 25% had cognitive impairment and 25% had depression. CONCLUSIONS The general health outlook of this population is encouraging, considering that more than half are not functionally impaired.