THE EFFECT OF OREM SELF-CARE PROGRAM PERFORMANCE ON THE SELF- CARE ABILITY IN ELDERLY.

ncrease in the rate of elderly population in developing countries can cause emotional, social and health problems. Using nursing theories especially Orem theory could be effective in self care ability improvement. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of self-care program performance based on the Orem frame work on the self- care ability in elderly resident in Urmia Nursing home.

Materials & Methods : This research is quasi experimental study. 50 elderly people were randomly selected through census who met inclusion criteria. They were divided into two groups as control (25) and intervention (25). Data collection tools were Self care Ability Scale for the Elderly and self care needs questionnaire. Self care programs were held as 4-6, 30-45 minutes sessions based on their self care needs for experimental group. Self care ability was evaluated by Self care Ability Scale for the Elderly before and after one month of self care program. Data were analyzed with SPSS software version 16, using descriptive and inferential statistical testes.

Result : Result showed that there is no significant difference between the two groups in self care needs mean scores before intervention (P=0/76). The difference between the means in the two groups was significant (P=0/014), i.e., Orem Self -Care program improved Self-care ability of elderly.

Conclusion: Performing Orem Self Care program had a positive influence on improving Self-care ability of elderly. Therefore it is suggested that health care planner and nurses should reinforce self care in these patients According to the nursing theories, caring program can improve self care ability in home-dwelling elderly people