Contribution of chronic conditions to aggregate changes in old-age functioning.
OBJECTIVE
This study explored the role of various chronic conditions in explaining recent improvements in functioning among older Americans.


METHODS
We used the Supplements on Aging to the 1984 and 1994 National Health Interview Surveys to examine changes among Americans 70 years and older in reports of chronic conditions and functional limitations. We decomposed functioning changes into condition-related components, controlling for demographic shifts.


RESULTS
The percentage of older Americans with upper- and lower-body limitations declined from 5.1% and 34.2%, respectively, in 1984 to 4.3% and 28.5% in 1995, and the average number of lower body limitations decreased. During the same period, reports of 8 of 9 chronic conditions increased, but many of these conditions had less debilitating effects on functioning. Reductions in the debilitating effects of various chronic conditions--particularly arthritis--are important in explaining declines in limitations experienced by older Americans.


CONCLUSIONS
Earlier diagnosis and improved treatment and management of chronic conditions, rather than prevention, may be important contributing factors to improvements in upper- and lower-body functioning among older Americans.
Freedman
V A
VA
Polisher Research Institute, Philadelphia Geriatric Center, Jenkintown, PA 19046-7128, USA. vfreedman@pgc.org
Martin
L G
LG
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D003710:Demography; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D017533:Marital Status / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D009017:Morbidity; D011159:Population Surveillance; D015995:Prevalence; D044469:Racial Groups; D012044:Regression Analysis