Long-term declines in daily activities and mobility among older adults
Author Information
Author(s): Wolinsky Fredric D, Bentler Suzanne E, Hockenberry Jason, Jones Michael P, Obrizan Maksym, Weigel Paula AM, Kaskie Brian, Wallace Robert B
Primary Institution: University of Iowa
Hypothesis
What are the long-term functional declines in older Medicare beneficiaries and what risk factors are associated with those declines?
Conclusion
Long-term functional decline is common among older Medicare beneficiaries, with significant associations found for hospitalization, exercise, and proxy reporting.
Supporting Evidence
- 36.6% of participants experienced declines in ADL abilities.
- 32.3% experienced declines in IADL abilities.
- 30.9% experienced declines in mobility abilities.
- Engaging in vigorous physical activity significantly reduced the odds of functional decline.
- Post-baseline hospitalizations were the most robust predictors of functional decline.
Takeaway
As people get older, many have a harder time doing everyday activities like getting dressed or moving around, but staying active can help keep them healthy.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from 5,871 older adults using logistic regression to assess the impact of various factors on functional decline over an average of 8 years.
Potential Biases
Proxy-reports may not accurately reflect the functional status of participants, leading to potential underestimation of declines.
Limitations
The study is observational and relies on self- and proxy-reports, which may introduce bias.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily older adults, average age 77, with 62% women, 9% African American, and 4% Hispanic.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website