Prevalence and correlates of functional disability in Chinese older adults

Aim: This article examines the prevalence of functional disability as well as sociodemographic correlations among Chinese older adults based on the most recent China National Sample Survey on Disability in 2006. Methods: Functional disability was defined as lost motor function or limited movements and activities according to the International Classification of Function, Disability and Health, and physicians made the diagnosis of disability. Utilizing stratified, multiphase and cluster probability sampling design, a nationally representative sample of the non‐institutionalized elderly Chinese population was studied. Factors associated with functional disability were determined using a logistic regression model. Results: The prevalence of functional disability was 8.1%. Major causes were vascular disease, osteoarthritis and accidents. In the non‐institutionalized elders, increased age, rural residence, less education, lower income, unemployment, being unmarried, living in simple housing, and living with others or non‐homeowners emerged as factors associated with functional disability in men and women. Conclusion: To face the challenge of the rising prevalence of functional disability, prevention strategies should focus on reducing the incidences of chronic disease and improving socioeconomic status of older adults.