Freonia Pinto
Research Mentor(s): Carrie Karvonen-Gutierrez
Mentor Department: Epidemiology
Authors: Carrie Karvonen-Gutierrez, Freonia Pinto, Adrianna Lucido, Jillian Baker
Session: Session 4 (1:00pm – 1:50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 12
Abstract
Assessing Physical Function Limitations and Accommodations in Aging Women: Insights from the SWAN Study Women’s health research has historically been overlooked, particularly regarding midlife and older adulthood. The Center for Midlife Science aims to address this gap by devoting itself to studying the health of aging women. Physical function is important in older adult women because it supports their independence, prevents falls and chronic diseases, and enhances overall quality of life. Declining physical function can lead to adverse health outcomes such as increased risk of injury, social isolation, and mental health issues. This project aims to assess the prevalence of physical functional limitations among older women and analyze whether accommodations are in place to support their limitations. This research utilizes data from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN), a longitudinal study on midlife women’s health. At study visit 15 (V15, 2015-2016), data on physical function were collected. Women self-reported physical function limitations through the SF-36 Physical Function subscale and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHO-DAS). We will be analyzing this data to help further our research. Future phases of this project will include the development of a questionnaire to assess disability accommodations among SWAN participants. Future work will examine the public health implications of these findings, particularly in addressing accessibility challenges and financial burdens associated with disability accommodations. This research seeks to identify gaps in accessibility and inform policies that enhance the quality of life for aging women who have physical limitations. By advocating for improved accommodations, this study aims to contribute to a society that prioritizes the health and independence of older populations.
