HEALTH PROBLEMS AND DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH GERIATRIC AMONG ELDERLY SAUDI POPULATION: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Objective: To assess and understand the health problems and diseases associated with geriatric individuals in the Saudi Arabian elderly population.

Methods: This research will employ a cross-sectional study design. A cross-sectional approach is suitable for investigating the prevalence of health problems and diseases in the geriatric population of Saudi Arabia at a specific point in time, providing valuable insights into the current health status of this demographic.

Results: The study included 493 participants. The most frequent weight among them was 66-75 kg (n= 126, 25.6%) followed by 51-65 kg (n= 117, 23.7%). The most frequent height among study participants was 11.61-1.70 m (n= 176, 35.7%) followed by 1.51-1.60 m (n= 156, 31.6%). The most frequent body mass index value among study participants was 25-29.9 kg/m² (n= 190, 38.5%) followed by 18.5-24.9 kg/m² (n= 129, 26.2%). Participants were asked if they lived alone or with their children. The most frequent said with children (n= 350, 71%), followed by independent (n= 143, 29%). Participants were asked about a number of medications. The most frequent was don’t take any medication (n=186,37.7%), followed by 2-3 times a week (n=106, 21.5%).

Conclusion: Study results showed that most of the study participants are overweight according to their BMI. They most commonly lived with their children. They are non-smokers. Their physical activity is low. In addition, most of the study participants had good social connections.