An Assessment of Morbidity Pattern among Rural Geriatric Population of Field Practice Area of MMIMSR, Mullana, Ambala District, Haryana

Background: Ageing is an inevitable process accompanied by physical, psychological, and social challenges, increasing the risk of various diseases and treatment costs, often paid out-of-pocket. Rising life expectancy has expanded the elderly population, creating new demands on health systems, resources, and nutrition. Promoting healthy ageing requires maintaining functional ability through targeted healthcare, regular health assessments, and appropriate community support. Objectives: The study aims to examine the morbidity patterns among the geriatric population in rural field practice areas of Mullana, Ambala. Methodology: The study was conducted in rural field practice areas of Department of Community Medicine, MMIMSR, Mullana, district Ambala over a period of one year. Geriatric population aged 60 years and above were interviewed using a self-designed questionnaire with 2 sections which will comprise of sociodemographic details, self-reported pattern of morbidities of different systems. Written informed consent was obtained from each participant, and confidentiality was maintained. The data was analysed using SPSS version 28.0, and Chi-square test was used to establish associations among qualitative variables. Results: A total of 240 elderly individuals who met the study criteria were enrolled. 43.75% were from age group 60-65 years. There is high load of morbidities in rural (97%) population. The most common morbidity identified among them were cardiovascular conditions (45.4%) followed by diabetes. The study found significant association between morbidity and various factors like, age group, joint family, religion, education, gender. Conclusion: The study found a high prevalence of morbidities among the elderly in rural areas, with factors like age, family type, religion, and education significantly influencing health status. Rural elderly were identified as the most vulnerable, highlighting the need for targeted policies, improved access, and regular geriatric care to support their well-being and social inclusion.