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Abstract Functional Ability of a Rural Elderly Population Kathy Bond 1986 This study elicited responses about their functioning from a sample of those over 65 in a small Midwestern community. The project used a non experimental sample survey design and measured six areas of functioning in the elderly. Findings, with a return rate of 39% indicated that the group rated their health as good or very good. 80% reported taking one medication and 30% regularly took more than three medications. Reported areas of decreased functioning that were significant included lessened ability to do household chores and declining ability to drive a car. A comparison of rural and urban populations responding to the study reported higher functioning in all areas for the rural population. The study divided the population into young old and old and found the older group more dependent in transportation and social activity. The study was limited by sample size and follow-up procedures. It is recommended that the study be replicated and expanded to include both the elderly and their families’ report of their functioning and followed up by the interviews to include those elderly who might have difficulty responding to a written survey.
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