Functional Status

The study linked hearing impairment to faster functional decline — particularly in seniors’ balance skills. As a treatable condition, hearing loss may be a target for interventions, improving quality...

Physical dysfunction problems often are overlooked in the care of older, frail patients with acute heart failure. But these patients find greater functional and quality of life benefits from early, transitional,...

Most patients in post-acute care settings reap functional benefits and see reduced rehospitalization from physical therapy and occupational therapy, finds a new study across 1.4 million Medicare beneficiaries.

A study that followed residents through all stages of emergency department transfers and care has found that certain comorbidities and levels of stress can predict subsequent recovery from symptoms.

Exercise is generally good for the elderly, but high intensity training is especially beneficial and may even extend life, finds the 5-year Generation 100 exercise study.

A referral to physical therapy soon after diagnosis, while not standard practice, led to clinically significant improvements in pain intensity, a new study has found. Participants were also more likely...

Today’s elders appear to have greater physical and cognitive function than they did in the 1990s. The consequences of this trend are a mixed bag, Finnish investigators say.

Time spent in light physical activity such as leisurely walks is linked to better self-reported functioning, report investigators.

Certain physical and mental health problems significantly increase mortality risk in the year following a major operation, say researchers.

A study of long-distance skiers showed that physical fitness may delay clinical symptoms for years.