Physical and Social Activities of Older Adults With Functional Limitations

This study examined the associations of physical and social activities with health status and functional disabilities (FDs) in a sample of Medicare beneficiaries who completed the 2004 National Long-Term Care Study (NLTCS) (N = 3,225). Factors associated with the health of older Americans with functional limitations included older age, higher education, employment, absence of chronic illness, performance of physical activities, and friends' visits. Older age, higher education, diabetes, heart disease, and the absence of all types of physical activities and friends' visits were associated with FDs. It is recommended that physical and social activities be encouraged for seniors with disabilities.