The Journal of Korean Society of Community-Based Occupational Therapy Vol.16 No.2 pp.13-28
Analysis of Survival Factors for Community Mobility Independence among Korean Older Adults Using a Cox Proportional Hazards Model
Key Words : Older adults,Survival analysis,Occupational therapy,Community mobility,Cox proportional hazards model
Abstract
Objective : This study longitudinally analyzed the multidimensional factors affecting the maintenance and loss of community mobility independence in Korean older adults. It aims to suggest preventive occupational therapy interventions that support a healthy later life by maintaining this independence. Methods : An analysis was conducted on 471 older adults aged 65 and older using raw data from waves 1 to 9 of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (KLOSA). Based on a community mobility model, participatory, physical, psychosocial, environmental, and economic factors were set as independent variables. Survival analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazards model. Results : During the follow-up period, 29.1% (137 participants) of the subjects experienced limitations in community mobility independence. Higher scores in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), increased grip strength, and frequent contact with friends were identified as protective factors that significantly reduced the risk of mobility restriction. Conversely, joint disease, cerebrovascular disease, and a history of falls were found to increase the risk. Environmental and economic factors were not statistically significant. Conclusion : Community mobility independence in older adults is closely associated not only with physical function but also with IADL performance and the formation of social networks. To proactively prevent functional decline, comprehensive occupational therapy intervention strategies are needed to promote maintaining grip strength, preventing falls, and encouraging occupational participation within the community.
