Functionality
Reducing moderate to severe limitations in the older adult
Objective
As we age, the body begins to slow down, and functional limitations develop. Functional limitations are a decrease in the ability to carry out everyday activities.
Luckily, there are certain things we can do to reduce these moderate and severe limitations. The following information provides knowledge to initiate necessary lifestyle changes and participate in treatment regimens.
Assessment
Self- Related Factors
- Mental aspects
- Capability aspects
- Adjustment aspects
Body- Related Factors
- Activity aspects
- Health aspects
- Autonomy aspects
External Factors
- Social aspects
- Demographic aspects
- Environmental aspects
Self-Related Factors
Mental Aspects
Good-
- Being valued and important
- Extroverted personality
- Absence of worry
Bad-
- Emotional difficulties
- Higher levels of neuroticism
- Anxious experiences
Capability Aspects
- How well you handle difficult situations and use problem-focused coping
- Life accomplishments and individual resources
- Religion and spirituality
Adjustment Aspects
- ability to adjust and keep a positive attitude
- enjoying the small things
Body-Related Factors
Activity Aspect
- higher life satisfaction
- physical condition improves mental health
Health Aspect
- Gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances
- Musculoskeletal symptoms
- Fractures
- Exhaustion
- Medications
Autonomy Aspects
- Maintains dignity
External Factors
Social Aspects
- Meeting with friends
- Visiting cultural events
- Participating in group activities such as gardening
Demographic Aspects
- Older men have greater satisfaction than older women
- Marital status (widowed, partner, or married)
- Higher educational level
- Stable economic status
Environmental Aspects
- Living in a home-like environment or even your original house rather than nursing home.
- Supportive neighborhood
Motivators
This information will help the older adult live to their fullest ability longer.
Overcoming barriers
Community resources
Sources
Paterson, D. H., & Warburton, D. E. (2010). Physical activity and functional limitations in older adults: A systematic review related to Canada’s physical activity guidelines. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 7(1), 38. doi:10.1186/1479-5868-7-38
Schoultz, I., Algilani, S., Östlund-Lagerström, L., Kihlgren, A., Brummer, R., & Blomberg, K. (2014). Exploring the concept of optimal functionality in old age. Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare. doi:10.2147/jmdh.s55178