Longitudinal Analysis of Intrinsic Capacity and Other Risk Factors in Aging: FREVO Study Protocol

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Global population aging poses socio-economic challenges, particularly in developing nations like Brazil.
• Brazil faces an accelerated aging trend in the coming years.
• Understanding aging in diverse contexts is crucial for effective public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess intrinsic capacity and its interaction with other risk factors in Brazilian older adults.
• To evaluate the combined impact of these factors on adverse health outcomes.
• To promote healthy aging and enhance quality of life in a specific Brazilian region.

Main Methods:

• A six-year prospective cohort study of 496 community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years).
• Annual in-person assessments of intrinsic capacity, lifestyle, and chronic conditions.
• Biannual phone monitoring for adverse outcomes (falls, hospitalizations, dementia, death).
• Latent profile analysis and Cox regression for statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• Identification of distinct risk phenotypes among older adults.
• Characterization of modifiable risk factors influencing healthy aging.
• Application of the WHO's intrinsic capacity framework in a low-resource setting.

Conclusions:

• Findings will bridge global aging frameworks with regional realities in Brazil.
• The study aims to inform localized strategies for promoting independence and functionality in older adults.
• Results will contribute to a better understanding of aging processes in diverse populations.