Performance-Based Impairment Measures as Predictors of Early-Stage Activity Limitations in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

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OBJECTIVE: The objective of the current investigation was to explore performance-based predictors of decline in the performance quality of everyday tasks as a first step for early identification, screening, and referral to minimize disability in community-dwelling older adults. METHOD: This was a secondary analysis of data from 256 community-based older women. Mobility, activities of daily living (ADLs), and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) were measured using the Performance Assessment of Self-Care Skills (PASS). Logistic regression models explored cognitive and motor predictors of performance quality while controlling for demographics and diagnoses. RESULTS: Functional reach ( p = .049) and cognition ( p = .012) were predictive of mobility quality, whereas balance ( p = .007) and the Keitel Function ( p = .005) were predictive of ADL quality. Manipulation and cognitive measures were predictive of cognitive and physical IADL quality. DISCUSSION: Cognitive and physical screens are both important to identify older adults at risk for disability.