Análise das dimensões da funcionalidade autopercebida nas pessoas idosas brasileiras a partir da PNS de 2019

Abstract

Our objective was to identify latent dimensions in self-perceived functionality variables among elderly Brazilian individuals. This is a cross-sectional study using data from the K module of the National Health Survey (PNS) of Brazil conducted in 2019. Multivariate statistics were performed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The sample consisted of 22,728 elderly individuals from all regions of Brazil, with a predominance of females (56%) and a mean age of 70 years (CI: 69.68 - 70.03). It was observed that the elderly population was active, with 61% engaging in physical exercises weekly, and the majority lived with a spouse or partner (56.3%). The multivariate statistical analysis was conducted through Principal Component Analysis, resulting in two distinct macrodimensions of functionality, D1 and D2, which correspond to Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), respectively. When analyzing each macrodimension separately, internal microdimensions were identified in both ADLs and IADLs. In ADLs, the subdimensions of Upper Limb ADLs and Lower Limb ADLs were highlighted. On the other hand, in IADLs, the microdimensions include Health Management IADLs and Independent External Mobility IADLs. It is noteworthy that variable K25, IADLs-Finances, also grouped in the second component but was not useful for distinguishing the internal dimensions of IADLs due to its values being close between the two dimensions. The latent dimensions regarding functional capacity found here may be useful for guiding the functional assessment of the elderly, therapeutic decision-making, and the development of public policies.