Characterization of the functional capacity of the elderly effects of age and health status

Limitations in performing activities of daily living is one of the main constraints that hinder the effectiveness of policies to promote active aging. Several researches have revealed the existence of a relationship between aging with physical changes and loss of functional capacity. In this paper we seek to characterize the functional capacity of the Portuguese elderly using two indexes. On one hand, IDLA, index of daily living activities, (ranging from 0, minimum level of functional disability, to 5, maximum level) on the performance of five tasks: dressing, bathing, eating; walking across a room, getting out of bed. On the other hand, IDLIA (index of daily living instrumental activities) comprising five tasks: making telephone calls, taking medications, managing money, shopping and preparing meals.