Diferenciais intra-urbanos de vulnerabilidade da população idosa

Abstract

This study examined the adequacy of a Health Vulnerability Index (IVS) to identify intraurban differentials in vulnerability among the elderly population. Study participants (n=1055) were selected by means of probabilistic sample of residents in the city of Belo Horizonte who were aged 60 or more years (mean = 70.1 years). The IVS was composed of census tractlevel measures of socio-economic conditions and premature mortality levels. Based on its location and the IVS value, each participants household was classified as low, average, or high risk. Results of multivariate ordinal logistic regression models showed graded and statistically significant associations between the households risk level and the social and physical environment; health conditions and behaviors; and health service needs (adjusted prevalence ratios ranging from 1,17; IC 95% 1,02-1,34 to 1,65; IC 95% 1,45-1,88). The IVS appears to be a useful instrument for the identification of health and social service needs among the elderly.