Differences in Functionality Between Independent, Slight, and Moderate Dependent Older Adults: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Aging is a gradual process characterized by damage to the physiological functions that frequently lead to dependence in the older adults of 60 years or older. We hypothesize significant differences in mental and physical capacity between fully independent older adults and slight to moderate dependent older adults. Method: A cross-sectional analysis of 322 older adults of 60 years or more, with a Barthel Index equal to or higher than 60, who attended day centers during August 2018 in Santiago-Chile was used. Quality of life, physical ability, cognitive capacity, and symptoms of depression of fully independent with slight to moderate dependent older adults are compared.Results: A higher proportion of older adults with complete independence have higher levels of quality of life and mobility. Even a small reduction in independence has a significant reduction in quality of life. An increase from a 60-90 score to a 91-99 score in the Barthel Index rises 42% [CI95% 18-66] the EQ-5D score, this difference increases to 49% [CI95% 29-70] for full independence. Climbing stairs and incontinence in urination are the two main activities related to having a lower independence level (lower than 100 Barthel Index score). Ambulation and climbing stairs are the two main activities related with lower than the cutoff levels of normality for quality of life (EQ5D) and physical condition (TUG). Finally, urine and bowel incontinence, and lower levels of ambulation are the main activities related with symptoms of depression (Yesavage score).Conclusion: There were significant differences in health-related measures among different levels of independent older adults. Understanding the potential causes of these differences could help prioritize the focus of multidimensional programs on health and prevention with the aim of prolonging older adults’ state of independence and improving their quality of life.

Aging in Latin America and the Caribbean: Social protection and quality of life of older persons

“…Community-based long-term care was shown to significantly improve older people's quality of life in England (Forder, Gousia, and Saloniki, 2019). Services provided at day care centers in Chile, including physical and mental exercises, significantly improved physical and cognitive outcomes (Valenzuela et al, 2021). Barnay and Juin (2016) found that formal long-term care improves older people's mental health indicators.…”