SEX DIFFERENCES IN THE LEVEL OF DAILY LIVING ACTIVITY AND MENTAL HEALTH OF THE ELDERLY IN THE BISMA UPAKARA SOCIAL INSTITUTION IN PEMALANG

Abstract

Background: Older adults are vulnerable to physical function decline and psychological problems that affect their Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and mental health. Gender has been identified as a factor influencing these conditions. Objective: To analyze gender differences in the levels of Activity of Daily Living (ADL) and mental health among older adults at the Bisma Upakara Elderly Social Institution in Pemalang. Methods: This study used a quantitative-comparative design with a cross-sectional approach. The sample consisted of 40 older adults selected using a total sampling technique. The instruments used were the KATZ Index and DASS-21. Data were analyzed using the Chi-Square test. Results: The p-values from the Chi-Square test regarding gender differences were as follows: ADL distribution (p = 0.608), anxiety levels (p = 0.507), stress (p = 0.637), and depression (p = 0.249). All p-values were greater than 0.05. Conclusion: There were no significant gender differences in ADL or mental health among older adults at the Bisma Upakara Elderly Social Institution in Pemalang.

Keyword: Elderly, Gender, ADL, Mental Health