Intrinsic capacity and changes in quality of life among older Europeans by sex and region using SHARE data

Understanding determinants of quality of life (QoL) in older adults is crucial in aging societies. Intrinsic capacity (IC), combining physical and mental capacities, may be associated with changes in QoL, but evidence on specific IC domains and QoL is limited. The primary objective of this study was to examine the relationship between intrinsic capacity domains and changes in quality of life over a 2-year period among older Europeans, with particular attention to sex and regional differences. Data from 11,493 adults aged ≥ 50 from 13 European countries in SHARE Waves 5 and 6 (2013–2015) were analyzed. IC was operationalized across five domains: mobility, cognition, psychological well-being, sensory function, and vitality. Exploratory factor analysis validated IC’s multidimensional structure. Network analysis assessed domain interrelations and links to QoL (CASP-12). Sex and regional differences were explored via stratified analyses and ANOVA. IC domains formed a coherent multidimensional construct. Psychological well-being and mobility showed relatively stronger associations with QoL than the remaining intrinsic capacity domains. Depressive symptoms and fatigue correlated negatively with CASP-12 (r = − 0.284 and − 0.324, p < 0.001). Cognitive and mobility domains had weaker but significant links. Over 2 years, modest IC declines paralleled QoL changes. Women and individuals in Southern and Eastern Europe exhibited greater IC deficits and lower QoL. Intrinsic capacity was significantly associated with short-term changes in QoL among older Europeans. Psychological and mobility domains are key targets for interventions. Addressing sex and regional disparities in IC may improve well-being and reduce inequalities in aging populations.