Risk Profiles for Care Dependency: Cross-Sectional Findings of a Population-Based Cohort Study in Germany

<b>Background:</b> Rising life expectancy in Western societies is accompanied by a rising incidence of care dependency (CD) among older people. <b>Objective:</b> The aim of the study was to examine which health-related and social determinants were associated with CD. <b>Method:</b> We used cross-sectional data from the first follow-up (<i>N</i> = 1,699) of a prospective, population-based cohort study of older participants (≥70 years). CD was assessed if participants required substantial assistance in at least two activities of daily living for 90+ minutes daily. Multivariate logistic regressions were applied. <b>Results:</b> Participants' mean age was 82 years; 18.9% were care-dependent. CD was significantly associated with older age, urinary incontinence, stroke, falls, cancer, diabetes, education level, having no partner, limited mobility, and limited physical activity. <b>Discussion:</b> Our research highlights the importance of promoting mobility, even in care-dependent people. Further research should investigate the role of partnership in terms of the prevention and delay of CD.