Functional Age

Functional age refers to the assessment of an individual's physical, mental, and social capabilities, which may differ from their chronological age (the actual number of years lived). It considers how well a person functions in daily life—like mobility, memory, and independence—rather than just counting years. For example, someone might be 70 years old chronologically but still active, sharp, and independent, indicating a "younger" functional age. Healthcare providers use this concept to tailor care and plan interventions based on how well someone is actually functioning, rather than relying solely on their age in years.