Attributes of primary care and functional capacity of older adults: multiple correspondence analysis of data from the 2019 National Health Survey

Objective The objective of this study was to investigate the association between attributes of primary care and functional capacity of older adults. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted of data from the 2019 National Health Survey on older adults whose domiciles were registered with Basic Health Units. Functional capacity was assessed by self-reported ability to independently perform Basic Activities of Daily Living (BADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). The primary care attributes assessed were first contact access, longitudinality, care coordination and completeness. Associations were analyzed using Multiple Correspondence Analysis. Results For functional capacity, no association between primary care attributes and BADLs was found, suggesting that independence for basic activities such as feeding and bathing may not be directly associated with care access or continuity. However, an association was identified for first contact access and longitudinality with independence for IADLs, such as shopping, managing finances, and more complex activities related to autonomy - activities often impaired before BADLs. Conclusion Results revealed that strengthening attributes of primary care, such as access and care continuity can help maintain the autonomy of older adults, and should be a priority in care strategies involving this population.