Analysis of Geriatric Deaths: An Autopsy Study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: With the increase in medical advances and technology, people are living longer, and the percentage of the geriatric population is on the rise. However, this subset of population of their own set of problems and cannot be treated as others.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: An autopsy based retrospective study on deaths of geriatric population was conducted for the period of 1 year (January 2023- December 2023) in a medical college hospital.

RESULTS: Out of all autopsies done during the period, geriatric cases were 17% (n= 34), with male predominance (n= 29). Among the deceased, the highest was in the age group 60-70 years (n= 23), next being 70-80 years (n= 9) and least was in 80-90 years (n= 2).Natural death was most common among them (n= 15), followed by accidental deaths (n= 13), suicidal death being third (n= 5) and homicide being least (n=1). Among natural deaths, death due to cardiovascular causes was the highest (n= 12), followed by deaths due to respiratory system (n= 3). Among unnatural deaths, Road traffic accidents were the highest (n=12), suicide by poisoning and drowning were 2 cases each.

CONCLUSION: The study shows natural death is more common among geriatric population, with most dying due to cardiovascular causes. The study also shows that road traffic accidents are of significant importance when it comes to geriatric deaths, amounting to the same number of deaths due to cardiovascular causes. These types of deaths can be prevented.