Nutritional Status and Functional Independence in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: The rapid growth of the elderly population in Indonesia has created major public health challenges, particularly the decline of functional independence. Nutritional indicators such as body mass index (BMI), calf circumference, and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) are known to influence functional capacity. This study aimed to analyze the association between BMI, calf circumference, and MUAC with functional status in older adults attending the Sudiang Public Health Center, Makassar.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 108 purposively selected older adults. Nutritional status was assessed using BMI, calf circumference, and MUAC, while functional status was measured with the Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) scale. Data analysis employed Somers’ D correlation to examine the strength and direction of associations.

Results: BMI was significantly associated with functional status (p = 0.016; D = –0.176), as were calf circumference (p = 0.001; D = 0.297) and MUAC (p = 0.027; D = –0.208). Lower BMI and MUAC were associated with reduced functional independence, whereas larger calf circumference was positively associated with functional capacity.

Conclusion: Nutritional status, as reflected by BMI, calf circumference, and MUAC, shows a significant association with functional independence in older adults. Regular nutritional screening should be integrated into geriatric care to preserve autonomy and quality of life among aging populations.