Longitudinal characterization of course types of functional limitations

Purpose: Longitudinal data have provided evidence on factors that increase the risk of incidence of functional limitations. However, little insight exists in course types of functional limitations other than simple incidence or recovery. Methods: This contribution examines the variety of course types across the first three cycles of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (n = 3107, initial ages 55 - 85 years, 6-year period covered). Using cluster analysis, course types were determined among both the survivors and the deceased. Multinomial analyses were performed to determine the predictive ability of baseline physical and mental chronic conditions for each course type. Results: Eight course types were distinguished: (1) stable not limited (53%) (2) stable mild (8%) (3) stable severe (3%) (4) gradual increase (4%) (5) delayed increase (5%) (6) not limited, died t