Aging trajectories of subscales in higher-level functional capacity among community-dwelling older Japanese adults: the Otassha study

Abstract

Background Maintaining higher-level functional capacity is important for independent living in older age. The aging trajectory of the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG-IC) has three patterns; however, the subscale patterns are unclear. Aims This study aimed to clarify the aging trajectory patterns of the TMIG-IC subscales among community-dwelling older Japanese. Methods Participants were 3,169 community-dwelling older Japanese who participated in the 2012–2022 mail survey of the Otassha study. The aging trajectory patterns of the TMIG-IC total and subscale scores for those aged 65–90 years were identified using group-based trajectory modeling. Further, the combination frequency of the subscale trajectory patterns was determined. Results Three patterns were identified: early-onset decreasing, late-onset decreasing, and high-stable. Discussion The instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) trajectory was maintained until approximately 80 years of age; however, chronic disease prevailed the most in the early-onset decreasing pattern. The early-onset decreasing pattern of intellectual activity (IA) was present in 25% of participants, showing impaired IA from 65 years of age. The late-onset decreasing pattern of social roles (SR) was present in 30% of participants, showing a sharp decline compared to other subscales. For many people, the patterns of decrease in SR and IA overlapped. Conclusions To maintain higher-level functional capacity, interventions that include disease management and prevention of decline in IADL and increase the awareness of the social support provided throughout old age and interventions for people with an early decline in IA should be implemented.

Aging trajectories and functional capacity: insights from the Otassha study

“…The global demographic shift towards an aging population has spurred a wealth of research aimed at understanding how aging affects functional capacity among older adults [ 1 ]. One notable contribution to this field is the Otassha study, which focuses on aging trajectories in higher-level functional capacity among community-dwelling older Japanese adults [ 2 ]. This study offers crucial insights into how different aspects of functional capacity evolve with age, informing both healthcare practice and policy aimed at promoting healthy aging in a population characterized by a long life-expectancy.…”

“…The Otassha study meticulously examines the aging trajectories of various subscales in higher-level functional capacity, a crucial determinant of independence and quality of life in older adults [ 2 ]. Higher-level functional capacity encompasses abilities beyond basic activities of daily living, such as managing finances, using transportation, and engaging in social and recreational activities.…”

“…Importantly, the Otassha study also sheds light on gender differences in aging trajectories. Women, on average, live longer than men but often experience higher rates of disability and functional decline [ 2 ]. The study’s findings suggest that gender-specific interventions may be warranted to address the unique challenges faced by older women, such as tailored physical activity programs and support networks that cater to their needs.…”