Factors associated with functional performance in a group of indigenous older adults using the PLS-SEM method

Purpose The purpose of this study was to analyze the factors associated with functional performance in a group of older adults residing in ethnic communities. Design/methodology/approach The study included 300 indigenous older adults (mean age 68.6 years, SD: 8.6; 66% women). Sociodemographic characteristics, emotional, cognitive, family conditions, comorbidities and psychosocial factors were assessed using various validated scales. A PLS-SEM model was used to examine the relationships between these factors and functionality. Findings The most significant effects on functionality were sociodemographic (ß = −0.43; 95% CI: −0.53, −0.31), emotional (ß = −0.21; 95% CI: −0.34, −0.06) and cognitive (ß = 0.21; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.32) conditions. Significant indirect effects were identified, mainly mediated by cognition. Research limitations/implications The main limitation of the research was its cross-sectional nature, which did not allow for answering causal questions. Furthermore, the nonrandom selection of subjects could lead to a decrease in the external validity of the results. The practical implication of the study focuses on multidimensionally analyzing the functionality variable in this type of contexts of rurality and ethnicity, which are framed in a situation of socioeconomic and cognitive deprivation, important variables that determine the dependency of the elderly. Socially, this population practices an agricultural activity which allows a greater level of autonomy in their daily activities and facilitates establishing a greater number of social ties. Originality/value The sociodemographic conditions in this particular population are significantly precarious, factors that increase vulnerability and functional dependence in indigenous older adults. The cognitive level of this population is low, which could have implications for the quality of life of these older adults, restricting activities such as movement and social interaction and therefore limiting their level of functional autonomy.