The activity of daily living (ADL) subgroups and health impairment among Chinese elderly: a latent profile analysis

Abstract Background Disability in aged people became one of the major challenges China due to acceleration population aging. Nevertheless, there were limited methods appropriately discriminate degree combined basic activity daily living (BADL) and instrumental (IADL). The present study explored an empirical typology (ADL) its association with health status among elderly China. Methods Data throughout Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) was retrieved Latent profile analysis (LPA) conducted identify subgroups ADL for included subjects. Multinomial regression performed detect effect identified characteristics subgroups, restricted cubic spine drawn show changes relationship between age-specific disability BMI. Results overall participants ( n =8108) divided into three classes by LPA - ‘no BADL limitation-no IADL limitation’ (Class one, =6062, 75%), limitation- impairment’ two, =1526, 19%), ‘BADL impairment- three, =520, 6%). Compared Class oldest-old, without spouse, lacking exercise, short social activities, having experience falls, comorbidity diabetes, heart disease, stroke, decreased cognitive function, depression symptom highly associated two three. Additionally, malnutrition asthma BADL/IADL impairment three), while illiteracy only two). Furthermore, a statistically significant U-shape detected age vs. two) as well BMI one). 80–90 less likely evolve impairment, who underweight or obese may have higher risk impairment. Conclusion A novel functional assessment based on LPA, which could be classified distinct BADL/IADL. predictors particular IADL/BADL draw early attention onset enlighten targeted interventions address consequent problems people.