Factors Associated with Physical Functioning in Korean Older Adults: An Analysis Using the Life Functioning Scale-10 and the 2024 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data

Background: This study aimed to identify factors associated with Life Functioning Scale-10 (LF-10) scores among Korean older adults.Methods: Data from 1,715 older adults who participated in the 2024 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed.A multivariable survey linear regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with LF-10 scores, which range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better physical functioning.Results: Several factors were independently associated with lower mean LF-10 scores, including older age (β=-6.54),female sex (β=-6.31),low educational attainment (β=-5.74),unemployment (β=-3.87),unmarried status (β=-3.60),perceived stress (β=-3.34),hypertension (β=-1.83),and type 2 diabetes (β=-1.73).Aerobic exercise was positively associated with physical functioning (β=+3.45).Among all factors examined, depression showed the strongest negative association with LF-10 scores (β=-19.72,P<0.001).Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to prevent decline in physical function among vulnerable older adults, particularly through depression screening and management, promotion of aerobic exercise, and support for individuals with socioeconomic disadvantages.