Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses identify three structural dimensions for measuring physical function in...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Public Health

Background:

• Physical function is a key indicator of biological age and quality of life in older adults.
• Existing studies on physical function dimensions lack consistency and comparability.
• There is a need for a standardized model to assess physical function in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To construct a structural dimension model for assessing physical function.
• To identify suitable dimensions for measuring physical function in Chinese adults aged 60-74.
• To provide a reliable tool for evaluating physical function in community-dwelling older adults.

Main Methods:

• Factor analysis (Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis) was used.
• Data from 381 community-dwelling adults aged 60-74 in Shanghai were analyzed.
• Model fit indices, convergent validity, and discriminant validity were assessed.

Main Results:

• A three-factor model was identified: mobility function, handgrip/pulmonary function, and muscle strength.
• These factors explained 58.548% of the total variance in physical function.
• The model demonstrated acceptable fit and met validity criteria.

Conclusions:

• The developed structural dimension model is a suitable and reliable tool for measuring physical function in older Chinese adults.
• The identified indicators can guide sports medicine experts and healthcare providers in developing targeted interventions.
• This model offers actionable targets for promoting healthy aging and mitigating physical function decline.