Peer-reviewed article

Are adverse socioeconomic conditions in childhood associated with intrinsic capacity in older age? A cross-sectional study from the Lausanne cohort Lc65.

Plys E, Fustinoni S, Avendano M, Belloni G, Blanco JM et al. · 25 Dec 2025

Abstract

Objectives This study aimed to assess the associations between childhood adverse socioeconomic conditions and intrinsic capacity in older adults using an integrative approach to ageing. Design A cross-sectional study. Setting We used data from the Lausanne Cohort 65+, a population-based longitudinal study that has been conducted in Lausanne, Switzerland, since 2004. Participants Lausanne citizens aged 67-71 years old. Outcomes Intrinsic capacity was assessed in 2015 using validated self-reported measures and performance tests. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling was used in a formative approach to calculate the global score of intrinsic capacity and the scores of its domains. Adverse socioeconomic conditions in childhood were retrospectively assessed in 2014 using self-reported measures of financial strain, dietary restrictions and child labour. Results The study sample included 1328 individuals. Multivariable regressions revealed that the global score of intrinsic capacity was lower in individuals who reported financial strain (B=-0.15, p=0.029) and dietary restrictions (B=-0.314, p=0.004) in childhood. They further showed an association between financial strain and lower locomotor and sensory capacities (B=-0.173, p=0.011 and B=-0.153, p=0.027, respectively), and between child labour and a lower score on cognition (B=-0.342, p<0.001). Conclusions Our results emphasise the critical role of early life conditions in healthy ageing. They highlight the importance of financial support for families and access to nutrition.