Cumulative blood pressure burden and the risk of functional dependence in elderly cohorts: An exploration of the influencing factors

BACKGROUND: To investigate the correlation between cumulative blood pressure levels and functional dependence in individuals aged 60 and older. METHODS: Data were sourced from two distinct elderly databases: CHARLS and ELSA. Various statistical techniques, including logistic regression analysis, restricted cubic spline analysis, forest plot visualization, and interaction analyses, were employed to delve into the associations between cumulative blood pressure and difficulties in performing activities of daily living. RESULTS: Across both cohorts, there was a discernible trend towards an increased risk of ADL difficulties with escalating cumulative blood pressure levels. Logistic regression analysis confirmed a statistically significant relationship between cumulative blood pressure and ADL difficulties (P < 0.001). The results derived from restricted cubic spline plots further underscored this relationship, demonstrating that, after adjusting for a multitude of confounding factors, the risk of ADL difficulties augmented with rising cumulative blood pressure. Additionally, the forest plot and interaction plot findings revealed that the association between heightened cumulative blood pressure and the risk of ADL difficulties was contingent upon factors such as body mass index, gender, and memory-related disorders. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate a positive correlation between cumulative blood pressure and the risk of experiencing difficulties with ADLs. Furthermore, this association appears to be modulated by BMI, gender, and the presence of memory-related diseases.