Objective: The objective of the current investigation was to explore performance-based predictors of decline in the performance quality of everyday tasks as a first step for early identification, screening, and referral to minimize disability in community-dwelling older adults.
Method: This was a secondary analysis of data from 256 community-based older women. Mobility, activities of daily living (ADLs), and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) were measured using the Performance Assessment of Self-Care Skills (PASS). Logistic regression models explored cognitive and motor predictors of performance quality while controlling for demographics and diagnoses.
Results: Functional reach ( p = .049) and cognition ( p = .012) were predictive of mobility quality, whereas balance ( p = .007) and the Keitel Function ( p = .005) were predictive of ADL quality. Manipulation and cognitive measures were predictive of cognitive and physical IADL quality.
Discussion: Cognitive and physical screens are both important to identify older adults at risk for disability.
Keywords: disability; geriatrics; physical function; well-being.