THE INTRINSIC CAPACITY PROFILE OF THE CHINESE OLDER ADULTS IN HONG KONG

Abstract Intrinsic capacity (IC) refers to the composite of physical and mental capacity. To promote healthy ageing, the identification of IC will provide a clear picture of older adults. The IC assessment in “Pathway to Healthy Ageing Project” in Hong Kong was then conducted under the Integrated Care of Older People (ICOPE) framework. The 6 IC domains (cognition, locomotion, vitality, psychology, vision, and hearing) were assessed among the 4418 older adults recruited over Hong Kong (mean age: 74.4 years). Cognitive function was tested by Montreal cognitive assessment 5-min protocol. 16.6% of the participants had cognitive impairment. For locomotion, Short physical performance battery and Timed-Up and Go Test (TUG) were used to measure physical function and mobility. 35.0% were found to have impaired physical function, and 16.9% faced a fall risk. TUG revealed 6.5% of our participants had problem in mobility. Vitality was measured by Mini nutritional assessment and handgrip strength. Our results indicated that 27% of the participants had a malnutrition risk, and 0.4% were malnutrition. Handgrip strength indicated 59.4% had low muscle strength. Psychology was measured by Geriatric Depression Scale-15 item for depression. 10.8% of the participants were found with depression. Sensory was measured by self-reported. 22% reported they had visual loss, and 17.4% reported they had hearing loss. Our study provided a profile of IC of the community-dwelling older adults in Hong Kong. The IC impairment of Hong Kong older adults was identified, thus more targeted intervention can be provided to improve the overall health condition.