Modifiable Impairments Predict Progressive Disability Among Older Persons

Abstract

Our purpose was to determine the extent to which a predetermined set of modifiable impairments predicted progression of disability. Method: We conducted a 3-year follow-up of two community-based cohorts of older adults. The impairment areas included lower extremity, upper extremity, hearing, vision, and affect. Home management and social or productive activities were the domains of function investigated. Results: All five impairments were of at least borderline significance in predicting decline in both functional domains in both cohorts with the exception of hearing for home management activities. The five impairments together explained from 17% to 23% of the decline seen in the functional outcomes (partial R2s 0.17 to 0.23). Discussion: Five prevalent and potentially modifiable impairments explained much of the progressive disability experienced. Given the priority that older patients place on function as a health outcome, these impairments should be routinely assessed and modified.