The impact of physical performance and cognitive status on subsequent ADL disability in low-functioning older adults

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to examine the independent contributions of physical performance and cognitive status to subsequent levels of ADL disability in low-functioning non-institutionalized older adults. Methods. A prospective cohort study included 416 women and 141 men 57 years of age or older who were living in the community and who reported substantial physical limitation. Physical performance and cognitive status were assessed at baseline in 1993. ADL disability wag assessed at baseline and in two follow-ups in 1994 and 1995. Data were analysed with correlation analyses and linear multiple regressions. Results. Both physical performance and ADL disability at baseline were highly predictive of subsequent ADL disability. Although cognitive status was slightly related to (subsequent) ADL disability, we found no independent contributions of cognitive status to subsequent ADL disability. Conclusion. Measures of both physical performance and ADL disability may identify older low-functioning adults who may benefit from interventions to prevent them from further disablement. (C) 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.