Article

This study aimed to describe the conceptual foundation and development
of an activity limitation and participation restriction staging system for
community-dwelling people 70 yrs or older according to the severity and types of
self-care (activities of daily living [ADLs]) and domestic life (instrumental
ADLs (IADLs)) limitations experienced. DESIGN: Data from the second Longitudinal
Study of Aging (N = 9447) were used to develop IADL stages through the analyses
of self- and proxy-reported difficulties in performing IADLs. An analysis of
activity limitation profiles identified hierarchical thresholds of difficulty
that defined each stage. IADL stages are combined with ADL stages to profile
status for independent living. RESULTS: IADL stages define five ordered
thresholds of increasing activity limitations and a ``not relevant'' stage for
those who normally have someone else do those activities. Approximately 42% of
the population experience IADL limitations. To achieve a stage, a person must
meet or exceed stage-specific thresholds of retained functioning defined for each
activity. Combined ADL and IADL stages define 29 patterns of activity limitations
expressing the individual's potential for participating in life situations
pertinent to self-care and independent community life. CONCLUSIONS: ADL and IADL
stages can serve to distinguish between groups of people according to both
severity and the types of limitations experienced during home or outpatient
assessments, in population surveillance, and in research.

Langue : ANGLAIS