Factores sociodemográficos y nutricionales asociados al desempeño físico en adultos mayores no institucionalizados

Abstract

Introduction: The increase in the older adult population has posed significant challenges for public health, particularly regarding physical functionality and quality of life. Objective: To identify the sociodemographic and nutritional factors associated with physical performance in community-dwelling older adults. Methodology: An observational, correlational, and cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 117 older adults. A sociodemographic survey was applied, including variables such as age, sex, and educational level, along with the assessment of nutritional status through body mass index and waist circumference. Physical performance was evaluated using the Short physical performance battery. Descriptive analyses and non-parametric tests were performed, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 76.1% of participants showed moderate to good physical performance. No significant associations were found between physical performance and age (p = 0.633), body mass index (p = 0.243), or waist circumference (p = 0.470). Likewise, no statistically significant differences were found according to educational level (p = 0.223) or sex (p = 0.071). Discussion: Unlike previous studies that identified significant associations with nutritional or educational variables, these findings suggested a multifactorial influence not solely explained by those factors. Conclusions: Although most participants exhibited adequate physical performance, it is necessary to consider other functional and contextual factors to fully understand healthy aging.