[Cross sectional geriatric assessment of free living older subjects from Antofagasta, Chile].

BACKGROUND The effects of aging on people must be evaluated to adequate sanitary actions. AIM To assess the characteristics of older subjects living in Antofagasta, Chile. MATERIAL AND METHODS Cross sectional assessment of 602 subjects without dementia, aged more than 60 years (55% females). A socioeconomic and medical history was obtained and Barthel, Lawton, Yesavage depression, Tromp fall risk and Folstein Mini mental scales were applied. RESULTS Sixty eight percent of subjects had more than six years of studies. Forty six percent had hypertension, 28% had osteoarticular problems, 20% had hypercholesterolemia and 17% diabetes mellitus. Four percent had depression and falls were reported by 35%. Seventy four percent were independent in basic and instrumental activities. Ninety four percent had normal cognitive functions. Age was an important determinant of functional capacity. CONCLUSIONS The main problems detected in this sample were the risk of falls and the presence of chronic diseases.