Factors associated with the life-space assessment in community-dwelling older adults requiring support

[Purpose] We aimed to identify factors associated with life-space mobility in community-dwelling older adults certified as requiring support. [Participants and Methods] We conducted a cross-sectional study of older adults requiring support who attended a day-service program between August and September 2024. We evaluated life-space mobility using a questionnaire. We assessed physical function using a chair stand test, one-leg standing time with eyes open, and maximum gait speed. We assessed cognitive function using a dementia screening scale. We evaluated pain-related disability and lower-limb pain sites. We examined factors associated with life-space mobility. [Results] Sixty-three participants were analyzed. Life-space mobility was associated with maximum gait speed and overall pain-related disability; however, only maximum gait speed showed a stable association. Exploratory analyses suggested that activity-specific pain-related disability, such as difficulties with housework, visiting friends, using public transportation, and shopping, was negatively associated with life-space mobility. [Conclusion] Maximum gait speed was a stable factor associated with life-space mobility in older adults requiring support. Activity-specific pain-related disability may also relate to life-space restriction and should be interpreted cautiously.