Trends in Intrinsic Capacity: Evidence From 32 Countries

Improving intrinsic capacity has become a key goal in promoting healthy aging. However, our understanding of the current state of intrinsic capacity in various population groups remains limited. In this study, we aimed to investigate the changes and temporal trends in the intrinsic capacity of individuals across a broad range of countries.

A multiple-cohort study.

The study was conducted in the general community across 32 countries.

A total of 172,751 participants aged ≥40 years were included in this study.

Not applicable.

Intrinsic capacity was assessed using 5 dimensions as recommended by the World Health Organization.

Age trend analysis revealed a gradual decline in intrinsic capacity with increasing age, with a more significant decrease in women than in men after 75 years of age. Period trend analysis indicated an overall gradual decline across the observation period, with a more pronounced decrease during the initial phase of the study. Birth cohort analysis revealed potential trends in intrinsic capacity across age groups. Although intrinsic capacity gradually improved among individuals aged ≥80 years in more recent cohorts, a declining trend was observed among younger individuals who entered the cohorts more recently.

Intrinsic capacity displays an upward trend among specific age groups in high-income countries. However, further studies are needed to explore the reasons behind the decline in intrinsic capacity among younger cohort members and prevent the adverse consequences of a sharp decline in intrinsic capacity as these individuals age.