FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY OF OLDER PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON DISEASE AND ALZHEIMER: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: The aging process is considered a biological, psychological and social phenomenon, and may be accompanied by several progressive changes. With advancing age, people may become less active favoring the emergence of chronic diseases. It is estimated that in 2020 the world population reaches a number of 1.2 billion people with over 60 years in the world. Objective: Describe the arguments of the literature on the functional capacity of older adults with Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer. Methodology: This narrative review included articles published from 1999 to 2014 with access database Medline, Pubmed and manual queries virtual library in the references of articles in vernacular and foreign, preferably English and Spanish language. Conclusion: This study highlights the clinical relevance of such research because of the articles found in the literature noted a decline in functional ability in Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer who undertake basic and instrumental activities affecting the quality of life and well being of the elderly.