Dimensions of Self-Perceived Functionality in Older Adults Based on the Brazilian National Health Survey.

UNLABELLED: The aging population is a global phenomenon that represents a significant demographic shift, with life expectancy closely related to individuals' functional capacity.

BACKGROUND/

OBJECTIVES

Identify latent dimensions in self-perceived functional variables among Brazilian older adults.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study used data from module K of the 2019 National Health Survey (NHS) in Brazil. Multivariate statistics were applied using Principal Component Analysis (PCA).

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 22,728 older adults from all regions of Brazil, with a predominance of females (56%), an average age of 70 years (CI: 69.68-70.03), 61% engaged in weekly physical exercise, and most living with a spouse or partner (56.3%). The multivariate statistical analysis, conducted through PCA, resulted in two distinct macro-dimensions of functionality: Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). When analyzing each macro-dimension separately, we identified internal micro-dimensions. Within ADLs, two subdimensions stood out: ADLs Upper Limb Function and ADLs Lower Limb Function. Within IADLs, the micro-dimensions included IADLs Health Management and IADLs Independent Outdoor Mobility. Close results in the subdimensions of variable K25 did not allow for a clear distinction between the estimated IADLs. However, given the importance of this variable in explaining the cognitive aspect of the functional capacity construct, we suggest maintaining it as a separate subdimension: IADLs Financial Management.

CONCLUSIONS

The latent dimensions of functional capacity identified in this study may help guide functional assessment in older adults, inform therapeutic decision-making, shape public policy, and support further research on functional capacity in aging populations.