Research highlights connection between resilience and functional ability in elderly at University of Jyväskylä

A good functional ability in old age stems from multiple sources, shaped by the entirety of one’s life experiences. Key components of functional ability include mobility, muscle strength, sensory functions, cognitive processing, and mental health. Social relationships and an accessible environment also play a significant role in determining the quality of life for elderly individuals.

Researcher Kaisa Koivunen describes the functional ability of the elderly as an interconnected system. Adequate resilience within this system aids individuals in coping with adversities. Koivunen studies healthy aging at the University of Jyväskylä’s Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences and the Gerontology Research Center.

Traditionally, resilience has been seen mainly as mental fortitude, but according to Koivunen, physical aspects like muscle strength and walking speed, alongside environmental factors such as support from loved ones, are equally important in older age. It’s beneficial to strengthen all components of functional ability when possible. While resilience doesn’t prevent challenges, it can help individuals cope with illnesses. For example, maintaining muscle strength can help avoid a decline in walking ability during periods of inactivity, potentially preventing mood deterioration.

The research indicates that various aspects of functional ability are interconnected, becoming more tightly linked as individuals age or perceive their health to be declining. A problem in one functional area can trigger a chain reaction throughout the system. Koivunen’s study, which involved over 800 participants aged 75 to 85 in Jyväskylä from 2017-2018, shows that walking speed reflects these functional challenges most sharply.

Current generations of elderly individuals possess significantly better physical and cognitive capabilities compared to those of the same age group approximately thirty years ago. Looking ahead, Koivunen hopes to identify early warning signs of functional decline to enhance support for the elderly, emphasizing the importance of maintaining functional ability into advanced age. This research on functional ability as an ecosystem has recently been published in The Journals of Gerontology.