Impact of hospitalization in the functionality and quality of life of adults and elderlies

Abstract

<b>Introduction:</b> Bed rest during hospitalization can trigger changes in different body systems and functional capacity that may lead to a decrease in muscle strength, quality of life and postural balance. <b>Objective:</b> To evaluate the effect of hospitalization in functionality and quality of life of hospitalized adults and elderlies. <b>Method:</b> This cross sectional study included 143 patients of both genders and aged ≥50 years. Were excluded patients with cognitive deficits (Mini mental state) according to schooling, delirium and those who failed to perform the proposed tests. Patients were evaluated within 48 hours after hospital admission and re-assessed at discharge. Functional status was assessed using the Mini-BESTest, muscle strength (MS) by hand grip dynamometer (La Fayette, USA) and health related quality of life (HRQL) by Short Form 12 (SF-12). We also carried out patient´s follow up to detect the incidence of falls in the 1^st of hospital discharge. Statistical analysis was conducted using paired T-test for parametric data and Wilcoxon test for non-parametric data. The qui-square test was used to compare proportions. <b>Results:</b> Hospital stay was 8.9 (±8.6) days and a significant change was observed in MS (p=0.03) and HRQL (p&lt;0.001) between admission and discharge. Patients who had worsening functionality at hospital discharge presented higher incidence of falls until one month after hospitalization (p=0.02). <b>Conclusions:</b> The hospitalization induces decrease in muscle strength and health related quality of life in adults and elderlies. Special attention should be taken in patients with worsening balance during hospital discharge.