Association between chronic conditions, multimorbidity, and dependence levels in Chinese community-dwelling older adults with functional dependence: a cross-sectional study in south-central China

The prevalence of multimorbidity among Chinese community-dwelling older adults with functional dependence is very high. The association of multimorbidity with functional dependence is mediated by specific chronic conditions. These findings highlight the necessity of adopting an integrated care model that combines medical and social care, with a particular emphasis on managing multimorbidity and critical chronic conditions that lead to severe functional dependence to preventing and diminish the onset of disabilities.