Functional Ability in the Oldest Old

The authors studied the relationships between physical functioning and cumulative measures of behavioral and psychosocial risk factors collected over two decades for 91 persons 80 years old and older at follow-up. They found that consistency of physical activity and absence of depression were associated with better functioning as were race (non-Blacks), education, and marital status. A health practices index that combined consistency of moderate alcohol use, moderate weight, and physical activity was also associated with better functioning. Controlling for the persistence of chronic conditions generally reduced but did not eliminate the observed relationships. The association between social contacts and functioning became stronger in the presence of controls. Risk factors after age 60 appear to influence physical functioning for those who survive into their 80s and consistency appears to make a difference.