Determinants of Limitations in Activities of Daily Living among Community-dwelling Persons Aged 80 Years and Older: Longitudinal National Evidence from the Health, Aging and Retirement in Thailand Study, 2015-2022

Abstract

Aim: Few studies have longitudinally assessed the determinants of limitations in activities of daily living (LADL) among persons aged???80?years. This study estimated the determinants of LADL using four waves (2015, 2017, 2020, 2022) of national longitudinal data from Thailand.

Methods: The sample included community-dwelling individuals aged???80?years (n?=?3,113 observations; average age 85.4?years, range 80�117). LADL was measured using established instruments, and linear fixed-effects regression was applied to explore time-varying determinants.

Results: Higher age, increased chronic conditions, elevated depressive symptoms, greater religious involvement, and being underweight were associated with increased LADL. Conversely, more frequent exercise and higher subjective life expectancy were linked to decreased LADL. Among those aged 60�79, transitions to widowhood and changes in work status also decreased LADL. Notably, depressive symptoms and chronic conditions predicted LADL only among individuals aged???80?years.

Conclusions: This longitudinal analysis advances understanding of factors influencing LADL in those aged 80+. Interventions targeting depressive symptoms, chronic conditions, weight optimization, and physical activity may help reduce limitations in daily living.