To describe intrinsic capacity (IC) distribution across age and sex and investigate its subdomains’ association with self-perceived health in home-dwelling older adults.

This cross-sectional study used population-based data from the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT). Self-perceived health was assessed by a 4-point Likert scale and dichotomized into good or poor health. IC consists of five subdomains (vitality, locomotion, cognition, psychological, and sensory capacity), assessed in line with the WHO recommendations. Capacity in locomotion and cognition was assessed by the SPPB and MoCA, while the remaining subdomains were assessed through questionnaires. Associations between subdomains and self-perceived health were examined using simple and multiple regression models, adjusting for age and education.

We included 8718 home-dwelling older adults (aged 70–101 years; 52.5% women). Good health was reported by 69.8% among those < 85 years and by 48.6% among those ≥ 85 years. High capacity in ≥ 3 subdomains was observed in 79.3% and 40.9% among individuals < 85 years and ≥ 85 years, respectively. High locomotor capacity showed the strongest association with good self-perceived health. The probability of poor self-perceived health increased with lower IC, but among women, significantly less by older age and more by higher education.

We observed a strong association between IC and self-perceived health, suggesting that IC is closely linked to individuals’ self-perceived health. Our findings support IC as a relevant tool in the shift toward preventive, health-promoting care, and we believe the use of IC can help tailor interventions to optimize functional ability and well-being.