Correlates of improvement in the care need levels of older adults with disabilities: a two-year follow-up study

[Purpose] This study examined the effect of motor functioning, cognitive functioning, and activities of daily living on improvements in care need levels of older adults requiring low-level care at baseline in Japan’s Long-Term Care Insurance system. We aimed to link our findings to a proposal for effective measures toward improving care need levels. [Participants and Methods] This retrospective cohort study included 11,585 individuals aged 65 years and above who received personal care and used day-care services continuously for two or more years starting from the baseline assessment. Participants showing an improvement in their care need level from baseline to two years were included in the improved group, and those who maintained or declined from the baseline level were included in the maintained/deteriorated group. [Results] The mental status questionnaire and sub-scores for the Functional Independence Measure, including those for self-care, continence, and social cognition, were significantly correlated with improvements in care need levels. [Conclusion] Conducting a detailed evaluation of these factors is important for gauging the progress of the care need levels of older adults.In addition, it is important for physiotherapists to provide non-rehabilitation professionals with advice and guidance on their assessment methods and remedies.