Loss and recovery of independence among seniors.
OBJECTIVE
This article identifies risk factors associated with the loss and recovery of independence among the household population aged 65 or older.


METHODS
The data are from the longitudinal component of the first two cycles (1994/95 and 1996/97) of Statistics Canada's National Population Health Survey (NPHS). Supplementary information is from the cross-sectional component of the 1998/99 NPHS.


METHODS
Cross-tabulations were used to estimate the proportions of seniors who lost or regained independence between 1994/95 and 1996/97. Logistic regression models were used to explore associations between loss or recovery of independence and demographic, behavioural and socioeconomic variables, as well as chronic conditions.


RESULTS
Age, sex and the effects of stroke were significantly related to the loss and recovery of independence among seniors. Bronchitis/emphysema, diabetes, heart disease, weight, physical activity, education and household income were associated with the loss of independence, but not its recovery. Dependent seniors with back problems, urinary incontinence, or who smoked had low odds of regaining independence.
Martel
Laurent
L
Demography Division, Statistics Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0T6. laurent.martel@statcan.ca
Bélanger
Alain
A
Berthelot
Jean-Marie
JM
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002170:Canada; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D012046:Rehabilitation; D012307:Risk Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors