Citation

Purser JL, Pieper CF, Branch LG, Shipp KM, Gold DT, Lyles KW. Aging (Kurtis) 1999; 11(4): 235-245.

Affiliation

Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA. jlp@geri.duke.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 1999, Editrice Kurtis S.R.L.)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

10605612

Abstract

This study evaluated the direct and indirect effects of spinal deformity on confidence in mobility among 185 older women with osteoporosis and vertebral fractures. We administered multidimensional tests of physical and psychosocial impairment and function to female residents of continuing care retirement communities, and used path analytic regression methods to delineate relationships between spinal deformity, pain, function and mobility self-confidence. No direct effect of spinal deformity on confidence in mobility was observed. However, important indirect paths mediated by functional limitations were confirmed. A pattern of indirect effects was observed for a broad array of impairment-level constructs. These results support current models of the disablement process that propose functional limitations as the major pathway to disability. However, they also suggest that the impact of impairment-level constructs might be overlooked unless we evaluate indirect, as well as direct effects, on disability.

Language: en