A model-based survey of physical health in community-dwelling older adults.

BACKGROUND

Having a better comprehension of older adults' physical health can help healthcare professionals better design program activities to maintain and promote the health of this population.

PURPOSE

This study investigated the physical health of community-dwelling older adults and compared physical health differences among different age subgroups, gender, and exercise habits.

METHODS

Using stratified random sampling, 384 Taiwanese community-dwelling older adults were recruited in this survey research. Researchers used the Health Model of Older Adults to measure activities of daily living (6 indicators) and physical status (14 indicators). Analysis of variance and independent t test analyzed the data.

RESULTS

Most participant physical health indicators were within normal ranges. Exceptions included central obesity (men: 42.90%, women: 80.30%), abnormal blood pressure (systolic: 47.10%, diastolic: 7%), and deteriorated lung capacity (men: 59.30%, women: 70.70%). Young-old subgroup participants (65-74 years old) and exercisers performed better in their activities of daily living and had better physical status than old-old subgroup participants (> 85 years old) and nonexercisers (all p < .05). Men had better physical status than women (all p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Maintaining an active lifestyle and exercising regularly are essential to delaying or preventing the deterioration of natural aging. Physical tolerance, functional ability, educational level, and gender differences should be considered when designing a health promotion program for this population. It is essential for national health policy to enhance older adult health and promote active and healthy aging.