Assessment of Functioning and Disability Based on WHODAS 2.0 and Related Factors Among People Aged 80 and Over Hospitalized in a Geriatric Ward in Southeastern Poland.

BACKGROUND The incidence of disability increases with age, and its determinants in the oldest age groups are complex. The aim of this study was to assess the level of functioning and disability based on WHODAS 2.0 and related factors in people aged 80 and over hospitalized in a geriatric ward in southeastern Poland. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study was conducted in a group of 282 people aged 80 and over hospitalized in a geriatric ward in southeastern Poland. Disability level was assessed using WHODAS 2.0. Contextual factors potentially related to disability during hospitalization were also evaluated. The relationship between disability level and related factors was explored using a linear regression model. RESULTS The highest level of disability was observed in the Life Activities (77.27 points) and Mobility (55.90 points) domains. Longer time to walk 10 m was associated with the greatest increase in disability - this factor exhibited a significant relationship across all analyzed WHODAS 2.0 domains. Lack of physical activity was significantly associated with increased disability in the Life Activities domain; absence of falls in the year preceding the study was associated with reduced disability in the Cognition, Self-care, and Getting Along domains. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest a need for systematic mobility monitoring in hospitalized older adults, as well as the implementation of strategies to support mobility, both during and after hospitalization.