Functional capacity and physical performance of community-dwelling elderly: a longitudinal study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Aging populations require understanding of functional capacity and physical performance changes.
• Identifying determinants of decline is crucial for targeted interventions in community-dwelling elderly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess changes in functional capacity and physical performance in community-dwelling elderly over two years.
• To identify the determining factors associated with these changes in the elderly population.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative, observational, longitudinal household survey (2014-2016) with 380 elderly participants.
• Utilized Mini-Mental State Examination, Katz Index, Lawton-Brody's scale, and Short Physical Performance Battery.
• Employed descriptive, bivariate, and multiple linear regression analyses.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in functional capacity for instrumental activities of daily living and physical performance observed.
• Age group, occupational activity, and physical activity were significant determinants for both outcomes.
• Schooling influenced instrumental activities; gender and medication count impacted physical performance.

Conclusions:

• Functional capacity and physical performance decline in community-dwelling elderly over a two-year period.
• Age, occupation, and physical activity are critical factors influencing elderly functional and physical status.
• Targeted interventions considering these factors may mitigate age-related declines.