Bidirectional association between functional difficulty and multimorbidity among older adults in India.

INTRODUCTION: The demographic landscape of India is rapidly transforming as the population ages, with projections indicating a substantial in elderly individuals by 2050. METHODS: This study delves into the bidirectional association between functional difficulty and multimorbidity among older adults, utilizing data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) 2017-18. Covering 31,902 participants aged 60 and above, the research examines the prevalence and impact of multiple chronic conditions and their association with functional abilities categorized into Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). RESULTS: The findings reveal a significant association between multimorbidity and functional limitations. Functional difficulty, both in ADL and IADL, is shown to be positively associated with an increase in likelihood of multimorbidity. The incidence of severe ADL difficulties, for instance, corresponds with a 3.97 times higher likelihood (Confidence Interval CI: 3.47-4.54) of multimorbidity. Severe difficulties in IADL were associated with 2.92 times increase (CI: 2.65-3.20) in multimorbidity risk. Similarly, the presence of multimorbidity escalates the probability of encountering functional difficulties. Participants with multimorbidity showed a 3.89 times increased risk (CI: 3.40-4.45) of severe ADL limitations and a 2.84 times increased risk (CI: 2.58-3.11) for severe IADL limitations. CONCLUSION: This research underscores the critical need for integrated health interventions that concurrently address chronic disease management and functional ability to enhance the quality of life for India's aging population.