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Aubert CE, Kabeto M, Kumar N, Wei MY. Multimorbidity and long-term disability and physical functioning decline in middle-aged and older Americans: an observational study. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:910. [PMID: 36443663 PMCID: PMC9703785 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03548-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multimorbidity is highly prevalent and associated with several adverse health outcomes, including functional limitations. While maintaining physical functioning is relevant for all adults, identifying those with multimorbidity at risk for faster rates of physical functioning decline may help to target interventions to delay the onset and progression of disability. We quantified the association of multimorbidity with rates of long-term disability and objective physical functioning decline. METHODS In the Health and Retirement Study, we computed the Multimorbidity-Weighted Index (MWI) by assigning previously validated weights (based on physical functioning) to each chronic condition. We used an adjusted negative binomial regression to assess the association of MWI with disability (measured by basic and instrumental activities of daily living [ADLs, IADLs]) over 16 years, and linear mixed effects models to assess the association of MWI with gait speed and grip strength over 8 years. RESULTS Among 16,616 participants (mean age 67.3, SD 9.7 years; 57.8% women), each additional MWI point was associated with a 10% increase in incidence rate of disability (IRR: 1.10; 95%CI: 1.09, 1.10). In 2,748 participants with data on gait speed and grip strength, each additional MWI point was associated with a decline in gait speed of 0.004 m/s (95%CI: -0.006, -0.001). The association with grip strength was not statistically significant (-0.01 kg, 95%CI: -0.73, 0.04). The rate of decline increased with time for all outcomes, with a significant interaction between time and MWI for disability progression only. CONCLUSION Multimorbidity, as weighted on physical functioning, was associated with long-term disability, including faster rates of disability progression, and decline in gait speed. Given the importance of maintaining physical functioning and preserving functional independence, MWI is a readily available tool that can help identify adults to target early on for interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole E Aubert
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland. .,Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Mohammed Kabeto
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Navasuja Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Melissa Y Wei
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Greater Los Angeles Veterans Healthcare System, CSHIIP, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Kim BR, Lee J, Sohn MK, Kim DY, Lee SG, Shin YI, Oh GJ, Lee YS, Joo MC, Han EY, Kim YH. Risk Factors and Functional Impact of Medical Complications in Stroke. Ann Rehabil Med 2017; 41:753-760. [PMID: 29201813 PMCID: PMC5698661 DOI: 10.5535/arm.2017.41.5.753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine the incidence and risk factors for medical complications in Korean patients suffering from stroke and the impact of such complications on post-stroke functional outcomes. Methods We assessed patients enrolled in a prospective cohort study. All recruited patients had suffered a first acute stroke episode and been admitted to nine university hospitals in Korea between August 2012 and June 2015. We analyzed patient and stroke characteristics, comorbidities, prevalence of post-stroke medical complications, and functional outcomes at time of discharge and 3, 6, and 12 months after stroke onset. Results Of 10,625 patients with acute stroke, 2,210 (20.8%) presented with medical complications including bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction, sleep disturbance, pneumonia, and urinary tract infection. In particular, complications occurred more frequently in older patients and in patients with hemorrhagic strokes, more co-morbidities, severe initial motor impairment, or poor swallowing function. In-hospital medical complications were significantly correlated with poor functional outcomes at all time points. Conclusion Post-stroke medical complications affect functional recovery. The majority of complications are preventable and treatable; therefore, the functional outcomes of patients with stroke can be improved by providing timely, appropriate care. Special care should be provided to elderly patients with comorbid risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Ram Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Konkuk University Medical Center, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jongmin Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Konkuk University Medical Center, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Kyun Sohn
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Deog Young Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sam-Gyu Lee
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Yong-Il Shin
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Gyung-Jae Oh
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Wonkwang University College of Medicine, Iksan, Korea
| | - Yang-Soo Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kyungpook National University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Min Cheol Joo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea
| | - Eun Young Han
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju National University College of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Yun-Hee Kim
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Center for Prevention and Rehabilitation, Heart Vascular and Stroke Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Abstract
In this study, the author examined the effects of psychosocial and health factors on the ADL disability trajectory of low-income frail elders living in the community. She analyzed three-year longitudinal data with a maximum of 15 repeated observations from a cohort of elderly participants in Michigan’s Medicaid Waiver Program ( N=3,161), using the hierarchical linear modeling approach. Baseline data of this cohort were taken in 1999; a reassessment was conducted about every three months. The analysis shows that major risk factors for a poor activity of daily living (ADL) disability trajectory include being Black, older, living with nonspouse others, and no confidence in functional improvement. Presence of arthritis, cancer, and cognitive limitation had significant and modest effects on ADL disability trajectories. The findings have implications to community-based intervention programs for frail elderly persons in the community.
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A comorbidity prognostic effect on post-hospitalization outcome in a geriatric rehabilitation setting: the pivotal role of functionality, assessed by mediation model, and association with the Brass index. Aging Clin Exp Res 2015; 27:849-56. [PMID: 25911607 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-015-0360-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Discharge planning is a critical feature of hospital's care in geriatric rehabilitation centers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of comorbidity and functionality in identifying patients who are at risk of discharge problems. We also evaluate the association between Blaylock Risk Assessment Screening Score, BRASS index (BI), and post-hospitalization outcome (PHO). METHODS Eighty patients (58 women and 22 men, with mean age equal to 83.28 ± 6.77 years) at geriatric rehabilitation division admission were screened with Geriatric Multidimensional Assessment (GMA). Then, BI and PHO were evaluated (mean follow-up time was 205.1 ± 95.8 days). By Structural Equation Model, we evaluated the existing causal relationships between comorbidity, functionality and PHO, elements of GMA, and the association between PHO and BI. RESULTS Comorbidity acted on PHO through functionality with indirect effect only (+0.703, P = 0.019). So, the functionality assumes a pivotal role of the causal relationship comorbidity to PHO. BI is positively associated with PHO: correlation returned was equal to +0.313 (P = 0.019). CONCLUSIONS The comorbidity has a role in getting worse PHO, but its effect is possible only through the mediation of functional status. The study also demonstrated the positive association between BI and PHO.
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Ryan A, Wallace E, O'Hara P, Smith SM. Multimorbidity and functional decline in community-dwelling adults: a systematic review. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2015. [PMID: 26467295 DOI: 10.1186/s12955‐015‐0355‐9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multimorbidity affects up to one quarter of primary care populations. It is associated with reduced quality of life, an increased risk of mental health difficulties and increased healthcare utilisation. Functional decline is defined as developing difficulties with activities of daily living and is independently associated with poorer health outcomes. The aim of this systematic review was to examine the association between multimorbidity and functional decline and to what extent multimorbidity predicts future functional decline. METHODS A systematic literature search (1990-2014) and narrative analysis was conducted. INCLUSION CRITERIA Population; Community-dwelling adults (≥18 years), Risk; Multimorbidity defined as the presence of ≥2 chronic medical conditions in an individual, Primary outcome; Physical functional decline measured using a validated instrument, Study design; cross-sectional or cohort studies. The following databases were included: PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library and the International Research Community on Multimorbidity (IRCMo) publication list. Methodological quality assessment of included studies was conducted with a suitable risk of bias tool. RESULTS A total of 37 studies were eligible for inclusion (28 cross-sectional studies and 9 cohort studies). The majority of cross-sectional studies (n = 24/28) demonstrated a consistent association between multimorbidity and functional decline. Twelve of these studies reported that increasing numbers of chronic condition counts were associated with worsening functional decline. Nine cohort studies included 14,133 study participants with follow-up periods ranging from one to six years. The majority (n = 5) found that multimorbidity predicted functional decline. Of the five studies that reported the impact of increasing numbers of conditions, all reported greater functional decline with increasing numbers of conditions. One study examined disease severity and found that this also predicted greater functional decline. Overall, cohort studies were of good methodological quality but were mixed in terms of participants, multimorbidity definitions, follow-up duration, and outcome measures. CONCLUSIONS The available evidence indicates that multimorbidity predicts future functional decline, with greater decline in patients with higher numbers of conditions and greater disease severity. This review highlights the importance of considering physical functioning when designing interventions and systems of care for patients with multimorbidity, particularly for patients with higher numbers of conditions and greater disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aine Ryan
- HRB Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 123 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland. .,Department of Population Health Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaux Lane House, Lower Mercer Street, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Emma Wallace
- HRB Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 123 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Paul O'Hara
- South East Training Programme for General Practice, General Practice Training Department, Waterford Regional Hospital, Dunmore Road, Waterford, Ireland
| | - Susan M Smith
- HRB Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 123 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Ryan A, Wallace E, O'Hara P, Smith SM. Multimorbidity and functional decline in community-dwelling adults: a systematic review. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2015; 13:168. [PMID: 26467295 PMCID: PMC4606907 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-015-0355-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multimorbidity affects up to one quarter of primary care populations. It is associated with reduced quality of life, an increased risk of mental health difficulties and increased healthcare utilisation. Functional decline is defined as developing difficulties with activities of daily living and is independently associated with poorer health outcomes. The aim of this systematic review was to examine the association between multimorbidity and functional decline and to what extent multimorbidity predicts future functional decline. METHODS A systematic literature search (1990-2014) and narrative analysis was conducted. INCLUSION CRITERIA Population; Community-dwelling adults (≥18 years), Risk; Multimorbidity defined as the presence of ≥2 chronic medical conditions in an individual, Primary outcome; Physical functional decline measured using a validated instrument, Study design; cross-sectional or cohort studies. The following databases were included: PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library and the International Research Community on Multimorbidity (IRCMo) publication list. Methodological quality assessment of included studies was conducted with a suitable risk of bias tool. RESULTS A total of 37 studies were eligible for inclusion (28 cross-sectional studies and 9 cohort studies). The majority of cross-sectional studies (n = 24/28) demonstrated a consistent association between multimorbidity and functional decline. Twelve of these studies reported that increasing numbers of chronic condition counts were associated with worsening functional decline. Nine cohort studies included 14,133 study participants with follow-up periods ranging from one to six years. The majority (n = 5) found that multimorbidity predicted functional decline. Of the five studies that reported the impact of increasing numbers of conditions, all reported greater functional decline with increasing numbers of conditions. One study examined disease severity and found that this also predicted greater functional decline. Overall, cohort studies were of good methodological quality but were mixed in terms of participants, multimorbidity definitions, follow-up duration, and outcome measures. CONCLUSIONS The available evidence indicates that multimorbidity predicts future functional decline, with greater decline in patients with higher numbers of conditions and greater disease severity. This review highlights the importance of considering physical functioning when designing interventions and systems of care for patients with multimorbidity, particularly for patients with higher numbers of conditions and greater disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aine Ryan
- HRB Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 123 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland.
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaux Lane House, Lower Mercer Street, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Emma Wallace
- HRB Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 123 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Paul O'Hara
- South East Training Programme for General Practice, General Practice Training Department, Waterford Regional Hospital, Dunmore Road, Waterford, Ireland
| | - Susan M Smith
- HRB Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 123 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Hergenrather KC, Zeglin RJ, McGuire-Kuletz M, Rhodes SD. Employment as a Social Determinant of Health: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies Exploring the Relationship Between Employment Status and Physical Health. REHABILITATION RESEARCH POLICY AND EDUCATION 2015. [DOI: 10.1891/2168-6653.29.1.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose:To explore employment as a social determinant of health through examining the relationship between employment status and physical health.Method:The authors explored the causal relationship between employment status and physical health through conducting a systematic review of 22 longitudinal studies conducted in Finland, France, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Sweden, United Kingdom, and the United States.Results:Five common trajectories were identified as employment, unemployment, job loss, reemployment, and retired. Unemployment and job loss were associated with poorer physical health. Employment and reemployment were associated with better physical health.Conclusion:To enhance employment outcomes, it is important for service providers to acknowledge the interaction between the client’s physical health and employment status, and assess client physical functioning. Additional research is necessary to further elucidate this interaction.
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Dhamoon MS, Moon YP, Paik MC, Sacco RL, Elkind MSV. Trajectory of functional decline before and after ischemic stroke: the Northern Manhattan Study. Stroke 2012; 43:2180-4. [PMID: 22649168 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.112.658922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Previous research in our cohort showed a delayed decline in functional status after first ischemic stroke. We compared the long-term trajectory of functional status before and after ischemic stroke. METHODS The Northern Manhattan Study contains a prospective, population-based study of stroke-free individuals age ≥40 years, followed for a median of 11 years. The Barthel index (BI), a commonly used measure of activities of daily living, was assessed annually. Generalized estimating equations were used to assess functional decline over time before stroke and beginning 6 months after stroke. Follow-up was censored at the time of recurrent stroke. RESULTS Among 3298 participants, 210 participants had an ischemic stroke during follow-up and had poststroke BI assessed. Mean age (±SD) was 77±9 years, 38% were men, 52% were Hispanic, 37% had diabetes, and 31% had coronary artery disease. There was no difference in rate of functional decline over time before and after stroke (P=0.51), with a decline of 0.96 BI points per year before stroke (P<0.0001) and 1.24 BI points after stroke (P=0.001). However, when stratified by insurance status, among those with Medicaid or no insurance, in a fully adjusted model, there was a difference in slope before and after stroke (P=0.04), with a decline of 0.58 BI points per year before stroke (P=0.02) and 1.94 BI points after stroke (P=0.001). CONCLUSIONS In this large, prospective, population-based study with long-term follow-up, there was a significantly steeper decline in functional status after ischemic stroke compared with before stroke among those with Medicaid or no insurance, after adjusting for confounders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandip S Dhamoon
- Department of Neurology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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Oursler KK, Goulet JL, Crystal S, Justice AC, Crothers K, Butt AA, Rodriguez-Barradas MC, Favors K, Leaf D, Katzel LI, Sorkin JD. Association of age and comorbidity with physical function in HIV-infected and uninfected patients: results from the Veterans Aging Cohort Study. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2011; 25:13-20. [PMID: 21214375 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2010.0242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV clinical care now involves prevention and treatment of age-associated comorbidity. Although physical function is an established correlate to comorbidity in older adults without HIV infection, its role in aging of HIV-infected adults is not well understood. To investigate this question we conducted cross-sectional analyses including linear regression models of physical function in 3227 HIV-infected and 3240 uninfected patients enrolled 2002-2006 in the Veterans Aging Cohort Study-8-site (VACS-8). Baseline self-reported physical function correlated with the Short Form-12 physical subscale (ρ = 0.74, p < 0.001), and predicted survival. Across the age groups decline in physical function per year was greater in HIV-infected patients (β(coef) -0.25, p < 0.001) compared to uninfected patients (β(coef) -0.08, p = 0.03). This difference, although statistically significant (p < 0.01), was small. Function in the average 50-year old HIV-infected subject was equivalent to the average 51.5-year-old uninfected subject. History of cardiovascular disease was a significant predictor of poor function, but the effect was similar across groups. Chronic pulmonary disease had a differential effect on function by HIV status (Δβ(coef) -3.5, p = 0.03). A 50-year-old HIV-infected subject with chronic pulmonary disease had the equivalent level of function as a 68.1-year-old uninfected subject with chronic pulmonary disease. We conclude that age-associated comorbidity affects physical function in HIV-infected patients, and may modify the effect of aging. Longitudinal research with markers of disease severity is needed to investigate loss of physical function with aging, and to develop age-specific HIV care guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisann K. Oursler
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Maryland Healthcare System, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joseph L. Goulet
- Yale University School of Medicine and Public Health, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Stephen Crystal
- Center for Health Services Research on Pharmacotherapy, Chronic Disease Management, and Outcomes, Institute for Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Amy C. Justice
- Yale University School of Medicine and Public Health, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Adeel A. Butt
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Knachelle Favors
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Maryland Healthcare System, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - David Leaf
- UCLA School of Medicine, Greater Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Healthcare System Los Angeles, California
| | - Leslie I. Katzel
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Maryland Healthcare System, Baltimore, Maryland
- Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - John D. Sorkin
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Maryland Healthcare System, Baltimore, Maryland
- Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
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Murtaugh CM, Spillman BC, Wang X(D. Lifetime Risk and Duration of Chronic Disease and Disability. J Aging Health 2010; 23:554-77. [DOI: 10.1177/0898264310389491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To estimate risk and duration of chronic conditions and disability for all older Americans and demographic subgroups. Method: Analysis of National Mortality Followback Survey data for survivors to age 65 to project lifetime risk and duration of selected conditions and examine their relationship with life expectancy and disability. Results: For women, Blacks, and non-Blacks, arthritis is most common and has the longest average duration, followed by diabetes and COPD. Among men, diabetes duration is longest, followed by COPD. Disability risk is elevated for all conditions studied, except heart attack. Those very overweight most of life and persons with dementia have the greatest disability risk and relatively long disability durations. Among women, those very overweight most of life can expect to die 3.1 years sooner and have above average disability duration. Discussion: Findings provide new information about the relative burden of common chronic diseases among all older Americans and major subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xing (Doreen) Wang
- Center for Home Care Policy and Research, Visiting Nurse Service of New York, NY, USA
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[Comorbidity in the elderly: utility and validity of assessment tools]. Rev Esp Geriatr Gerontol 2010; 45:219-28. [PMID: 20488585 DOI: 10.1016/j.regg.2009.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2009] [Accepted: 10/26/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Comorbidity is common in the elderly and contributes to the complexity of this population subgroup. This problem is a risk factor for major adverse events such as functional decline, disability, dependency, poor quality-of-life, institutionalization, hospitalization and death, but is not the most important factor. Age and risk of functional decline rather than comorbidity (understood as a compilation of diseases) are the main characteristics defining the target population attended by geriatricians. Comorbidity indexes should not be interpreted independently in the elderly, but within a context of comprehensive geriatric assessment that includes age-related preclinical dysfunctions, frailty measures, and functional, mental and psychosocial issues. The clinical management of comorbidity in the elderly requires advanced knowledge of geriatrics because the treatment of one condition may worsen or lead to the development of others and because preclinical physiological dysfunctions modulate drug response. Recommending a specific comorbidity index is difficult and depends on multiple factors, due to their psychometric characteristics, applicability in the elderly and their construct. However, the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale, in the version adapted to the elderly, could be highly suitable. Other instruments, such as the Charlson index, the Index of CoExistent Disease and the Kaplan index are also valid and reproducible.
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Dhamoon MS, Moon YP, Paik MC, Boden-Albala B, Rundek T, Sacco RL, Elkind MSV. Long-term functional recovery after first ischemic stroke: the Northern Manhattan Study. Stroke 2009; 40:2805-11. [PMID: 19556535 PMCID: PMC2830874 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.109.549576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Several factors predict functional status after stroke, but most studies have included hospitalized patients with limited follow-up. We hypothesized that patients with ischemic stroke experience functional decline over 5 years independent of recurrent stroke and other risk factors. METHODS In the population-based Northern Manhattan Study, patients > or =40 years of age with incident ischemic stroke were prospectively followed using the Barthel Index at 6 months and annually to 5 years. Baseline stroke severity was categorized as mild (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale <6), moderate (6 to 13), and severe (> or =14). Follow-up was censored at death, recurrent stroke, or myocardial infarction. Generalized Estimating Equations provided ORs and 95% CIs for predictors of favorable (Barthel Index > or =95) versus unfavorable (Barthel Index <95) functional status after adjusting for demographic and medical risk factors. RESULTS Of 525 patients, mean age was 68.6+/-12.4 years, 45.5% were male, 54.7% Hispanic, 54.7% had Medicaid/no insurance, and 35.1% had moderate stroke. The proportion with Barthel Index > or =95 declined over time (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84 to 0.99). Changes in Barthel Index by insurance status were confirmed by a significant interaction term (beta for interaction=-0.167, P=0.034); those with Medicaid/no insurance declined (OR, 0.84; P=0.003), whereas those with Medicare/private insurance did not (OR, 0.99; P=0.92). CONCLUSIONS The proportion of patients with functional independence after stroke declines annually for up to 5 years, and these effects are greatest for those with Medicaid or no health insurance. This decline is independent of age, stroke severity, and other predictors of functional decline and occurs even among those without recurrent stroke or myocardial infarction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandip S Dhamoon
- Neurological Institute, 710 W 168th Street, Box 206, New York, NY 10032.
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Plotnikoff RC, Lippke S, Karunamuni N, Eves N, Courneya KS, Sigal R, Birkett NJ. Co-morbidity, functionality and time since diagnosis as predictors of physical activity in individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2007; 78:115-22. [PMID: 17379349 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2007.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2006] [Accepted: 02/21/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Physical activity plays a key role in diabetes management, and in reducing the risk factors related to the development of co-morbid conditions. This study examined predictors of physical activity (Static Model) and activity change (Change Model) for individuals with type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) in a population sample of 1662 adults (510 type 1; 1152 type 2) using self-reported measures of co-morbidities, perceived difficulties in performing tasks of daily living (TDL), time since diagnosis, and selected demographic factors. Since the motivation for physical activity could be influenced by the initial diagnosis of diabetes, analyses were conducted separately for newly diagnosed individuals (diagnosed with diabetes < or =1 year), and those that have been diagnosed for sometime (diagnosed with diabetes >1 year). In the Static Model, a younger age (beta=-.11, p<.05) and having less perceived difficulties in performing TDL (beta=-.12, p<.05) were associated with a higher physical activity in individuals with type 1 diabetes. The presence of difficulties in TDL (beta=-.08, p<.05) and co-morbidities (beta=-.08, p<.05) were associated with physical activity participation in type 2 individuals diagnosed for >1 year, but not in newly diagnosed individuals. A shorter duration of disease (beta=-.07, p<.05), a higher body mass index (BMI) (beta=.09, p<.05) and female gender (beta=.07, p<.05) was associated with physical activity increase in individuals with type 2 diabetes. A higher BMI predicted physical activity change in both newly diagnosed individuals and those diagnosed for sometime. However, both genders were equally likely to increase their physical activity among newly diagnosed individuals. Although the magnitude of the study results are relatively modest, they could potentially guide and encourage future investigations in this area that could lead to useful insights in designing PA intervention programs for these specific populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald C Plotnikoff
- Centre for Health Promotion Studies, School of Public Health/Faculty of Physical Education, University of Alberta, 5-10A University Extension Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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Chen JH, Chan DCD, Kiely DK, Morris JN, Mitchell SL. Terminal trajectories of functional decline in the long-term care setting. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2007; 62:531-6. [PMID: 17522358 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/62.5.531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the terminal trajectories of functional decline among long-term care (LTC) residents dying with different diseases. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed on 747 individuals aged 65 or older who died between January 1994 and December 2004 in a 675-bed LTC facility in Massachusetts. Three study groups were created: advanced dementia, n = 314 (42%); terminal cancer, n = 63 (8%); and organ failure (congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), n = 370 (50%). Quarterly scores of 7 activities of daily living (ADLs) during the last year of life derived from the Minimum Data Set were compared among the three groups. Each activity was rated from 0 to 4 (higher scores indicate more dependence; total range, 0-28). RESULTS The mean age of all individuals at death was 91 +/- 6 (standard deviation) years. Functional decline was greatest during the last 3 months of life, but this decline was most precipitous in the terminal cancer and organ failure groups compared to the advanced dementia group. The mean change in ADL scores during the last year of life differed among the three groups (p <.001), with the greatest decline in the terminal cancer group (from initial score 13 to final score 25), followed by the organ failure group (13 to 22), and finally, the advanced dementia group (24 to 27). CONCLUSIONS The terminal trajectories of functional decline among LTC residents vary by underlying diseases. An understanding of these trajectories may be useful to clinicians and families caring for LTC residents near the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen-Hau Chen
- Hebrew SeniorLife, Institute for Aging Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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15
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Garman KS, Jeffreys A, Coffman C, Fisher DA. Colorectal cancer screening, comorbidity, and follow-up in elderly patients. Am J Med Sci 2006; 332:159-63. [PMID: 17031239 DOI: 10.1097/00000441-200610000-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the relationship between comorbid disease and performance of complete colon examination by colonoscopy or double contrast barium enema (DCBE) after positive screening fecal occult blood test (FOBT) in patients 70 years of age or older. BACKGROUND FOBT is an accepted form of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Factors that influence follow-up of positive FOBT have been largely unknown. METHODS Patients aged 70 years and older with positive FOBT between March 1, 2000 and Feb 28, 2001 were included in this retrospective medical record review performed at a single center. Comorbidity was measured by the Charlson Comorbidity Scale. RESULTS : In our sample of 266 subjects, 193 (73%) were referred for evaluation of positive FOBT and 109 (41%) underwent a colonoscopy or DCBE within 12 months. Using the Charlson score for comorbidity, 27% of our sample scored 0, 24% scored 1, and 23% scored 2 while 26% had a Charlson score of 3 or higher. There was no association between Charlson score (0, 1, 2, and > or =3) and referral for evaluation (chi test, P = 0.28) or performance of a complete colon examination (chi test, P = 0.38). CONCLUSIONS In this sample, only 41% of patients with positive FOBT underwent a full colon examination within 12 months of a positive FOBT. Although comorbidity burden was considerable, there was no association between comorbidity score and referral for or performance of a full colon examination. These results suggest that inappropriate patients receive CRC screening, which may contribute to delays for screening appropriate patients and diagnostic delays for others with positive screening test findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Garman
- Durham Veteran's Affairs Medical Center and Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
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16
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Aparicio T, Mitry E, Sa Cunha A, Girard L. [Management of colorectal cancer of elderly patients]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 29:1014-23. [PMID: 16435509 DOI: 10.1016/s0399-8320(05)88176-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Aparicio
- Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Hôpital Bichat-Claude Bernard, 75018 Paris.
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17
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Hallux valgus is a common condition that may lead to considerable pain and disability. There is also evidence that hallux valgus may impair balance and increase the risk of falling in older people. Although a number of plantar pressure studies have been undertaken in people with and without hallux valgus, little is known about how hallux valgus affects basic gait patterns or the movement of the upper body when walking. METHODS Measurements of temporospatial parameters of gait and acceleration patterns of the head and pelvis were obtained in 71 people (24 men, 47 women) between 75 and 93 (mean 80 +/- 4) years of age when walking on both a level surface and a specially designed irregular walkway. Foot problems, vision, peripheral sensation, strength, and reaction time also were evaluated. RESULTS After adjusting for potential confounders, subjects with moderate to severe hallux valgus were found to exhibit significantly reduced velocity and step length on both walking surfaces and less rhythmic acceleration patterns in the vertical plane when walking on the irregular surface compared to subjects with no or mild hallux valgus. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that hallux valgus has a significant detrimental impact on gait patterns that may contribute to instability and risk of falling in older people, particularly when walking on irregular terrain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hylton B Menz
- Musculoskeletal Research Centre, L Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria
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18
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Kriegsman DMW, Deeg DJH, Stalman WAB. Comorbidity of somatic chronic diseases and decline in physical functioning:; the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam. J Clin Epidemiol 2004; 57:55-65. [PMID: 15019011 DOI: 10.1016/s0895-4356(03)00258-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2003] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the association of decline in physical functioning with number of chronic diseases and with specific comorbidity in different index diseases. METHODS A longitudinal design was employed using data from 2,497 older adults participating in the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine influence of chronic diseases on change in physical functioning, operationalized using the Edwards-Nunnally index. RESULTS Decline in physical functioning was associated with number of chronic diseases (adjusted ORs from 1.58 for 1, to 4.05 for > or =3 diseases). Comorbidity of chronic nonspecific lung disease and malignancies had the strongest exacerbating influence on decline. An exacerbating effect was also found for arthritis in subjects with diabetes or malignancies and for stroke in subjects with chronic nonspecific lung disease or malignancies. A weaker effect than expected was observed for diabetes in subjects with stroke, malignancies, cardiac disease, or peripheral atherosclerosis. CONCLUSION Comorbidities involving chronic diseases that share etiologic factors or pathophysiologic mechanisms appear to have a weaker negative influence on decline in physical functioning than expected. Results indicate that combinations of diseases that both influence physical functioning, but through different mechanisms (locomotor symptoms vs. decreased endurance capacity) may be more detrimental than other combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didi M W Kriegsman
- Department of General Practice, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, BT 1081 Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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19
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Garman KS, Pieper CF, Seo P, Cohen HJ. Function in elderly cancer survivors depends on comorbidities. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2004; 58:M1119-24. [PMID: 14684709 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/58.12.m1119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Factors associated with functional status in elderly cancer survivors, in particular, comorbidity, have been inadequately studied. METHODS Of 4162 participants aged 65 and older enrolled in the Duke Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly study in 1986, 376 of the participants self-reported a diagnosis of cancer. Participants were divided into 2 comorbidity groups and 4 cancer groups. Cancer groups included 132 participants diagnosed 0-4 years ago, 117 diagnosed 5-15 years ago, 127 diagnosed >15 years ago, and 3784 participants who had never been diagnosed with cancer. Comorbidity (self-reported stroke, diabetes, hypertension, and myocardial infarction) was classified as presence of 1 or no comorbidities (n = 3089) or 2 or more comorbidities (n = 1073). Function was assessed by Katz Activities of Daily Living, Rosow-Breslau, Nagi, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living scales at the time of interview. RESULTS In a two-way analysis of covariance model of comorbidity and cancer group controlling for age, race, sex, education, marital status, depression, and cognitive status, duration of cancer survivorship does not influence most measures of function. In the subset of 376 cancer survivors, comorbidity significantly correlates with the functional status of these older cancer survivors (<0.02, for all 4 measures of function). CONCLUSIONS In the older cancer survivor, regardless of duration following diagnosis, the presence of comorbidity rather than the history of cancer per se correlates with impaired functional status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Garman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, and the Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
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Bean J, Kiely DK, Leveille SG, Morris J. Associating the onset of motor impairments with disability progression in nursing home residents. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2002; 81:696-704; quiz 705-7, 720. [PMID: 12172523 DOI: 10.1097/00002060-200209000-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the association between the onset of movement impairments and disability progression in nursing home residents. DESIGN Retrospective cohort analysis of data from the State of New York Minimal Data Set, version 2.0, between November 1998 and October 1999. Participants were nursing home residents (n = 84,346) in the State of New York. Items defined as "functional limitation in range of motion" and "lack of voluntary movement" served as measures of movement impairments. Scores on the activities of daily living summary scale served as a measure of disability. Age, sex, measures of cognition, depression, and measures of medical stability served as adjustment variables. RESULTS After adjusting for age, sex, cognition, depression, and measures of medical stability, the onset of either singular or combined movement impairments in voluntary movement or range of motion was associated with a concurrent step-wise loss in activities of daily living (P < 0.001). The progression in activities of daily living loss occurred regardless of location or limb type. CONCLUSION This study directly links the onset of movement impairments with disability progression. These findings have important implications for physiatrists and other practitioners of geriatric rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Bean
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center for Aged, Research and Training Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02131, USA
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21
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Bravo G, Dubois MF, Hébert R, De Wals P, Messier L. A prospective evaluation of the Charlson Comorbidity Index for use in long-term care patients. J Am Geriatr Soc 2002; 50:740-5. [PMID: 11982678 DOI: 10.1046/j.1532-5415.2002.50172.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Because of the high prevalence of coexisting medical conditions in frail older adults, clinical investigators often need to adjust for comorbidity when assessing the effect of long-term care (LTC) on patient outcomes. This study examined the prognostic value of the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) in predicting 3-year mortality and functional decline in the LTC setting and compared its prognostic value to that of two data-derived comorbidity indices. DESIGN Longitudinal cohort study. SETTING Eighty-eight residential care facilities from Quebec, Canada. PARTICIPANTS Two hundred ninety-one dependent older adults aged 65 and older. MEASUREMENTS Subjects' functional abilities were assessed at baseline and 3 years later with the revised version of the Functional Autonomy Measurement System(SMAF). Comorbidity data and the exact date of death for those who had died were collected retrospectively from the subjects' medical files. Subjects were classified as functional decliners if they died or gained 5 points or more on the SMAF between the two assessments. RESULTS Multivariate Cox and logistic regressions were used to derive two new comorbidity indices, one for predicting mortality and the other for identifying functional decliners. Although the CCI performed well in predicting these two outcomes, its performance was generally inferior to that of the two newly proposed indices. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that the CCI can be improved upon when used to measure comorbidity in LTC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Bravo
- Research Centre, Sherbrooke University Geriatric Institute, Sherbrooke, Canada.
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22
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Blazer DG, Fillenbaum G, Burchett B. The APOE-E4 allele and the risk of functional decline in a community sample of African American and white older adults. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2001; 56:M785-9. [PMID: 11723155 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/56.12.m785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given previous findings of adverse health outcomes associated with the E4 allele, data from a biracial community sample of older adults were used to determine whether functional decline is associated with the apolipoprotein E (APOE) E4 allele. METHODS In 1986, a stratified random household sample of community residents 65 years of age and older (n = 4162) formed the Duke Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly. Of those available 6 years later, 78.4% (n = 1999) were genotyped, providing "baseline" data at this time. The available survivors (n = 1529) provided longitudinal data 4 years later. Using longitudinal data from this sample, a combination of measures assessing self-care capability, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), and mobility was obtained at baseline and 4 years later (n = 1529) to determine the extent to which the E4 allele affected change in functional status. Functional status was assessed using items from a modified Katz Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Scale, the Older American Resources and Services IADL scale, and the Rosow-Breslau physical health scale. Control measures included demographic characteristics, depression, health status, arthritis, and cognitive status. APOE was coded as E4 present versus absent. RESULTS APOE E4 was not associated with decline in functional status in either bivariate or multivariate analyses as a main effect. There were, however, statistically significant interactions of the E4 allele with gender and baseline functional status, with greater functional decline in women with the E4 allele, whereas those with poorer baseline functioning who had the E4 allele were less likely to decline. No significant racial differences were found. CONCLUSIONS Despite the documented association of the E4 allele of APOE with adverse health outcomes, the E4 allele was not associated with a decline in functional status as a main effect. Interactions of E4 with gender (being female) and baseline functional status, however, did predict functional decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G Blazer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
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Rosen A, Wu J, Chang BH, Berlowitz D, Rakovski C, Ash A, Moskowitz M. Risk adjustment for measuring health outcomes: an application in VA long-term care. Am J Med Qual 2001; 16:118-27. [PMID: 11477956 DOI: 10.1177/106286060101600403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
An empirically derived risk adjustment model is useful in distinguishing among facilities in their quality of care. We used Veterans Affairs (VA) administrative databases to develop and validate a risk adjustment model to predict decline in functional status, an important outcome measure in long-term care, among patients residing in VA long-term care facilities. This model was used to compare facilities on adjusted and unadjusted rates of decline. Predictors of decline included age, time between assessments, baseline functional status, terminal illness, pressure ulcers, pulmonary disease, cancer, arthritis, congestive heart failure, substance-related disorders, and various neurologic disorders. The model performed well in the development and validation databases (c statistics, 0.70 and 0.68, respectively). Risk-adjusted rates and rankings of facilities differed from unadjusted ratings. We conclude that judgments of facility performance depend on whether risk-adjusted or unadjusted decline rates are used. Valid risk adjustment models are therefore necessary when comparing facilities on outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rosen
- Center for Health Quality, Outcomes and Economic Research, Bedford VAMC (152), 200 Springs Rd, Bedford, Mass. 01730, USA.
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Brogan DJ, Haber M, Kutner NG. Functional decline among older adults: comparing a chronic disease cohort and controls when mortality rates are markedly different. J Clin Epidemiol 2000; 53:847-51. [PMID: 10942868 DOI: 10.1016/s0895-4356(00)00207-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
In studies of functional status decline in older persons, the strategy for handling deaths during follow-up may influence policy implications. We compared 301 older ESRD dialysis patients with 322 controls to determine whether functional decline over 3 years among dialysis patients exceeded that of "normal aging." We used two different statistical methods and, for each, compared results when deaths were excluded and then included in the analysis. Dialysis patients incurred a larger follow-up mortality rate and were more impaired at baseline. Findings based on functional transition over time, assessed by a nominal variable, were sensitive to whether or not deaths were included in the analysis. However, findings based on nonparametric methods for an ordinal scale (functional impairment) were not sensitive to whether or not deaths were included in the analysis. Analyzing data with and without deceased subjects may be the most comprehensive approach to comparing two cohorts over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Brogan
- Biostatistics Department, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road N.E., Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Kutner NG, Brogan D, Hall WD, Haber M, Daniels DS. Functional impairment, depression, and life satisfaction among older hemodialysis patients and age-matched controls: a prospective study. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2000; 81:453-9. [PMID: 10768535 DOI: 10.1053/mr.2000.3878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare change over time in functional impairment, depression, and life satisfaction among older dialysis patients and age-matched controls. DESIGN Prospective cohort study over 3 years. SETTING Urban and rural communities throughout Georgia. SUBJECTS One hundred thirteen prevalent renal failure patients on in-center hemodialysis and 286 controls. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Ordinal functional impairment index and life satisfaction rating, and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. RESULTS Dialysis patients, compared with controls, reported significantly more functional impairment at baseline, and also at follow-up after adjusting for baseline impairment and covariates. Dialysis patients had higher depression scores at baseline, and also at follow-up after adjusting for baseline depression and covariates. In contrast, dialysis patients reported lower life satisfaction at baseline than did controls, but the two cohorts were not significantly different on reported life satisfaction at follow-up, after adjusting for baseline life satisfaction and race. In both cohorts, functional impairment and depression were significantly related. CONCLUSION Older dialysis patients' life satisfaction at a 3-year follow-up, which was similar to life satisfaction among age-matched controls, indicates the value of delivered dialysis care; the value of this care would be increased by reducing excess functional impairment in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- N G Kutner
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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26
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Wynne CF, Ling SM, Remsburg R. Comparison of pain assessment instruments in cognitively intact and cognitively impaired nursing home residents. Geriatr Nurs 2000; 21:20-3. [PMID: 10679604 DOI: 10.1067/mgn.2000.105793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to determine which pain severity and location instruments were most useful in the nursing home setting. Pain severity and location were assessed monthly for 1 year in 37 participants enrolled in a restorative rehabilitation program. Pain location was determined by the residents' indications on a diagram, a doll, and their body. Pain severity was determined by resident response to verbal, visual analog, faces, and word scales. Cognitively impaired residents had greater difficulty using all instruments. The McGill Word Scale was used most to determine pain severity. Pointing to themselves most frequently determined pain location among residents. New strategies are needed for pain assessment in the elderly, especially the cognitively impaired elderly, and a combination of instruments to assess pain in the latter group may be necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- C F Wynne
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Md., USA
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Kelly-Hayes M, Phipps MA. Preventive Approach to Poststroke Rehabilitation in Older People. Clin Geriatr Med 1999. [DOI: 10.1016/s0749-0690(18)30032-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Carlson JE, Ostir GV, Black SA, Markides KS, Rudkin L, Goodwin JS. Disability in older adults. 2: Physical activity as prevention. Behav Med 1999; 24:157-68. [PMID: 10023494 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.1999.11879272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In this 2nd article in the series on older adults (persons aged > or = 65 years), the role of physical activity in preventing disability associated with aging in the absence of specific illnesses is discussed, and different types of activities and the measures of outcome are described. Evidence for physical activity as a prevention measure is restricted to primary and secondary prevention because the application of physical activity for tertiary prevention of disability is limited. Chronic disease is considered in the context of its influence on disability only when physical activity offers some potential benefit to elderly persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Carlson
- University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, USA
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