title: Risk of dependence associated with health, social support, and lifestyle.
abstract: OBJECTIVE To analyze the prevalence of individuals at risk of dependence and its associated factors. METHODS The study was based on data from the Catalan Health Survey, Spain conducted in 2010 and 2011. Logistic regression models from a random sample of 3,842 individuals aged ≥ 15 years were used to classify individuals according to the state of their personal autonomy. Predictive models were proposed to identify indicators that helped distinguish dependent individuals from those at risk of dependence. Variables on health status, social support, and lifestyles were considered. RESULTS We found that 18.6% of the population presented a risk of dependence, especially after age 65. Compared with this group, individuals who reported dependence (11.0%) had difficulties performing activities of daily living and had to receive support to perform them. Habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and being sedentary were associated with a higher probability of dependence, particularly for women. CONCLUSIONS Difficulties in carrying out activities of daily living precede the onset of dependence. Preserving personal autonomy and function without receiving support appear to be a preventive factor. Adopting an active and healthy lifestyle helps reduce the risk of dependence.
authors.forename: Manuela
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Alcañiz
authors.forename: Pilar
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Brugulat
authors.forename: Montserrat
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Guillén
authors.forename: Antonia
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Medina-Bustos
authors.forename: Anna
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Mompart-Penina
authors.forename: Aïda
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Solé-Auró
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003858:Dependency, Psychological; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors; D013030:Spain; D055815:Young Adult