Functional and cognitive changes among older Chinese adults in Australia: A one-year longitudinal study

ABSTRACT Objective : This study examined changes in perceived functional ability, cognitive impairment screening scores, frailty, and depressive symptoms among older Chinese adults living in Australia. Method : A two-wave longitudinal cohort study was conducted in 2023 and 2024. Baseline participants (N = 145) were re-assessed in 2024, with 26 additional participants recruited at follow-up. Change and general linear model analyses used paired longitudinal data (n = 111-113), whereas correlation analysis used complete data (n = 111). Participants were recruited through Chinese community organisations. Outcomes were measured using Healthy Brain Ageing–Functional Assessment Questionnaire (HBA-FAQ), Ascertain Dementia 8-item questionnaire (AD8), FRAIL scale, and 5-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-5). Results : The mean age of participants was 72.87 years (SD = 7.31), and most participants were women. Total HBA-FAQ scores increased significantly from 2023 to 2024, indicating greater perceived functional difficulty. Significant increases were also observed in the social/work functioning, high-level thinking skills, and behaviour change. AD8, FRAIL, and GDS-5 scores were significantly higher in 2024. Changes in several HBA-FAQ domains and total HBA-FAQ scores were positively correlated with changes in AD8 scores, while changes in AD8 scores, were also positively associated with changes in FRAIL scores. Older age was associated with higher follow-up HBA-FAQ, AD8 and FRAIL scores, while higher baseline FRAIL scores were associated with higher FRAIL follow-up scores. Conclusion : Older Chinese adults in Australia showed increased perceived functional difficulty, cognitive impairment screening scores, frailty, and depressive symptoms over one year. Monitoring and culturally appropriate interventions may support early identification and timely care.