Abstract: Objective To investigate the present situation of housebound elderly in communities of Guangzhou and its influencing factors. Methods Using stratified random sampling method, five districts were chosen from 11 administrative districts in Guangzhou, and then one or two communities were selected from each chosen district. Questionnaire survey was conducted among residents aged 60 years or over in the selected communities. The survey included demographic information, living habits, chronic disease status, and housebound assessment scale. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test or multivariate logistic regression model. Results A total of 484 elderly residents aged 60 years or over in Guangzhou were surveyed, of whom 70 were housebound. The prevalence of the housebound was 14.5%. Multivariate logistic regression showed that less physical exercises （OR=8.457,56.366）, need for assistance when going out （OR=9.312）, low frequency of participation in community activities （OR=3.658）, no hobbies （OR=2.786）, and marital status without spouse （OR=2.771） were independent risk factors affecting the occurrence of housebound among the elderly in the community. Conclusions The prevalence of the housebound among the elderly residents aged 60 years or above in Guangzhou was relatively high. Risk factors affecting the occurrence of housebound included less physical exercises, low frequency of participation in community activities, and no hobbies. Community workers should pay more attention to social supports for elderly people, encouraging them to go outdoors, so as to reduce the occurrence of housebound.

Key words: Aged, Housebound, Factor analysis, statistical