Behavioral and health factors associated with disability among older adults: population-based study - DOI: 10.4025/reveducfis.v20i4.7265

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between disability and behavioral and health-related factors among older adults living in Pelotas, Brazil. This was a population-based cross-sectional study including 598 older adults aged ≥60 years. Basic (BADL) and instrumental (IADL) activities for daily living were assessed using the Katz Index and the Lawton Scale, respectively. Disability in each domain was defined as the need of total or partial help for performing at least one activity. Independent variables analyzed were: smoking, physical activity level, body mass index, self-rated health and participation in religious activities. We observed an inverse association of disability in BADL and IADL with self-rated health. Physical activity level was also inversely related with the number of activities showing disability in both domains. Health promotion strategies for the elderly are urgently needed.