Adult Daily Activity Limitations, by Age Group and Type
Caring for an older adult? Be aware that those over age 75 are three times more likely to need help with daily activities.
Estimates are based on household interviews of a sample of the civilian, noninstitutionalized U.S. population. Persons with unknown limitation status were excluded from the denominators.
Based on response to the question, "Because of a physical, mental, or emotional problem, does [person] need the help of other persons with personal care needs, such as eating, bathing, dressing, or getting around inside the home?"
Based on response to the question, "Because of a physical, mental, or emotional problem, does [person] need the help of other persons in handling routine needs, such as everyday household chores, doing necessary business, shopping, or getting around for other purposes?"
In 2006, adults aged >75 years were nearly three times as likely as those aged 65--74 years to require the help of another person in performing activities of daily living (e.g., eating, dressing, or bathing) and instrumental activities of daily living (e.g., household chores or shopping).
Data Source: Adams PF, Lucas JW, Barnes PM. Summary health statistics for the U.S. population: National Health Interview Survey, 2006. Vital Health Stat 2007;10(236). Available at http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/series/sr_10/sr10_236.pdf.
Citation:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. QuickStats: Estimated Percentage of Adults with Daily Activity Limitations, by Age Group and Type of Limitation --- National Health Interview Survey, United States, 2006. MMWR 2007;56:40(1058).
Related Links:
For more information on aging, see
CDC Healthy Aging
CDC Data and Statistics on Older Americans
More Information
For more information on disabilities, see
2:33 minutes) 
