Cross-sectional study on the association of life course determinants and biopsychosocial frailty in community-dwelling older people in Chile
Abstract
Introduction. The aging process is characterised by socio-demographic, physical, and psychological changes that lead to increased frailty among older populations. The aim of this research was to determine the association between life course determinants and biopsychosocial frailty in community-dwelling Older People (OP). Methodology. Cross-sectional study. A convenience sample of 51 OP in central Chile was analysed to examine the association between age, sex, marital status, country of birth, education level, monthly income, healthy lifestyle, chronic illnesses, life events influence biopsychosocial frailty, using the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI). Results. A predominance of female participants (86.3%) and a higher representation of married (43.1%) and widowed (29.4%) individuals. Perception of a healthy lifestyle was reported by 62.8% of participants. In the older age group, higher income was inversely associated with the physical (β: -3.84, IC 95%: -6.71; -0.96), psychological (β: -2.55, IC 95%: -4.38; -0.73), and total scores (β= -8.16; IC 95%: -12.38 to -3.95) of the Tilburg Frailty Index (TFI). Additionally, in this older group, having a healthy lifestyle was inversely associated with the physical (β: -1.96, IC 95%: -3.46; -0.47) and total TFI (β= -3.10, IC 95%: -5.29 to -0.92) scores. Discussion. These findings provide valuable information on Life course determinants that may influence multidimensional, and specific (biological, psychological and social) frailty, of OP and underscore the importance of early detection and tailored interventions to improve the health and functionality of OP. Conclusion. It is crucial to conduct a Comprehensive Gerontological Assessment to equally identify the needs, problems, and opportunities of OP in biomedical, mental (cognitive and mood), functional, and social aspects; and consequently, generate multicomponent interventions adjusted at the individual and group levels of OP.
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