Korean J Prev Med.
1999 Sep;32(3):325-332.
Factors Associated with Physical Functioning among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
- Affiliations
-
- 1Department of Preventive Medicine, Ajou University School of Medicine, Korea.
- 2 Graduate School of Health Science and Management, Yonsei University, Korea.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study is to identify major factors associated with physical
functioning among the Korean elderly.
METHODS
Data come from a survey of a nationally representative sample of 2,058 older
people aged 60 years or older living in the community. A hierarchical functioning scale
was constructed, using upper and lower body mobility, IADLs, and ADLs. Socioeconomic
characteristics, chronic conditions, measures of health status, health service use, and
social support were analyzed to explore their influence on functioning. Polytomous
logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify major contributing factors to
different levels of functioning.
RESULTS
Persons of older age, female, with chronic diseases (heart disease, stroke,
fracture/dislocation) were consistently more likely to show a higher degree of functional
limitation. There were variations, however, among other factors; e.g., those with arthritis
were more likely to be only mildly impaired, but not moderately or severely impaired.
CONCLUSIONS
Older Korean adults living in the community with impaired functioning
constitute persons with diverse characteristics. Policy and program activities need to
address specific needs of older people in different functioning states.