Quality of life indicators associated with the functionality of older people in Brazilian amazon: a network analysis approach

Introduction: The relationship between quality of life (QoL) and functionality is a critical aspect of healthy aging, reflecting the interconnectedness of physical, psychological, and cognitive health. Objective: to analyze the associations between the domains and facets of QoL and the functionality components of older participants in a social project in a municipality in the Brazilian Amazon. Methodology: This is a quantitative, analytical, observational, and cross-sectional study realized with 122 older individuals. The WHOQOL-Bref, WHOQOL-OLD, and WHODAS 2.0 were used. The data were analyzed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Spearman's correlation, and Network Analysis (p<0,05). Results: The analysis showed moderate correlations (r > 0.40, p < 0.05) among QoL domains and weak to moderate negative correlations (r between -0.18 and -0.46) between functionality and QoL domains. The physical domain emerged as the primary indicator of better functionality in mobility (r = -0.05), ADLs (r = -0.15), and social participation (r = -0.13). Sensory functioning was also relevant for cognition, mobility, and interpersonal relationships (r = -0.06 for each). Centrality analysis highlighted the physical domain as the most influential, followed by psychological and cognitive functionality, emphasizing the integration of physical and mental health for healthy aging. Conclusion: The physical domain is key to better functionality, especially in mobility, daily activities, and social participation. The psychological QoL domain and cognitive functionality also emphasize the need for a holistic approach to healthy aging.