Global Sensory Impairment Predicts Morbidity and Mortality in Older U.S. Adults

Objectives To evaluate global sensory impairment (GSI, an integrated measure of sensory dysfunction) as a predictor of physical function, cognition, overall health, and mortality. Design Prospective study. Setting The National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project. Participants A national probability sample of 3,005 home-dwelling older U.S. adults assessed at baseline (2005–06) and 5-year follow-up (2010–11). Measurements Gait speed, activity, disability, cognition, overall health, 5-year mortality. Results At baseline, older adults with worse GSI were slower (Timed Up and Go times: odds ratio (OR) = 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.17–1.50) and had more activity of daily living deficits (≥2: OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.10–1.46). Five years later, they were still slower (timed walk: OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.05–1.42), had more disabilities (≥2 instrumental activities of daily living; OR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.23–1.70), were less active (daytime activity according to accelerometry: β = −2.7, 95% CI = −5.2 to −0.2), had worse cognitive function (Montreal Cognitive Assessment; β = −0.64, 95% CI = −0.84 to −0.44), more likely to have poorer overall health (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.03–1.31) and lose weight (>10%: OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.04–1.64), and have died (OR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.19–1.76). All analyses were adjusted for relevant confounders at baseline, including age, sex, race and ethnicity, education, smoking, problem drinking, body mass index, comorbidities, and cognitive function. Conclusion GSI predicts impaired physical function, cognitive dysfunction, significant weight loss, and mortality 5 years later in older U.S. adults. Multisensory evaluation may identify vulnerable individuals, offering the opportunity for early intervention to mitigate adverse outcomes.