Positive Self-Perceptions of Aging Play a Significant Role in Predicting Physical Performance among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Emma Nilsson, Helena Igelström, Irene Vikman, Agneta Larsson and Mascha Pauelsen
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Emma Nilsson: Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, SE 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
Helena Igelström: Department of Neuroscience, Physiotherapy, Uppsala University, SE 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden
Irene Vikman: Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, SE 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
Agneta Larsson: Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, SE 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
Mascha Pauelsen: Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, SE 971 87 Luleå, Sweden

IJERPH, 2021, vol. 18, issue 21, 1-10

Abstract: Self-perceptions of aging (SPA) is associated with various health-related outcomes, including physical performance. No previous study has investigated the potential predictive influence of SPA on physical performance among Swedish community-dwelling older adults. This was a cross-sectional study using a random sample of 153 Swedish community-dwelling individuals aged 70 and older. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed, using the subscale “Attitude Towards Own Aging” of the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale, as a measure of SPA. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) was dichotomized and used as the outcome variable. SPA was a significant predictor (OR = 1.546, CI = 1.066–2.243) of physical performance, adjusted for age, cognitive function, and life-space mobility. Further analyses revealed significant sex differences, with SPA not being included in the model for the men whilst it was still a significant predictor (OR = 1.689, CI = 1.031–2.765) of physical performance in the group of women. SPA plays a significant role in predicting physical performance among Swedish community-dwelling older adults. To further clarify this relationship and its consequences, future longitudinal research should focus on the relationship between SPA, physical performance, and fall risk.

Keywords: self-perceptions of aging; physical functional performance; attitude toward own aging; ageism; falls; healthy aging (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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