Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of functional disability among older people attending primary healthcare centers in Bisha, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: The study used a cross-sectional design and gathered data from older adults (60 years and older) attending primary healthcare centers in Bisha. Data was collected using structured interviews based on the Katz Index of Independence in activities of daily living (ADL). Ordinal logistic regression models identified major ADL limiting variables. RESULTS: A total number of 396 respondents, with 40.7% (n=161) females. The prevalence of functional disability using the Katz ADL Index scale was 54%. Nearly half (45.5%) of the respondents fell within the independent range, 25.5% were moderately dependent, and 29% were completely dependent. Age (p=0.00), income (p=0.507), urban residence (p=0.003), and marital status (p=0.14) have positive estimated parameters adding to the log of odds in the higher category of the dependent variable (high dependence). CONCLUSION: A significant proportion of older adults in Bisha, Saudi Arabia, experience functional limitations, highlighting the need for interventions and support services.