Background <p>Fractures are a major health concern among older adults and may contribute to declines in physical function and independence. However, their impact may differ by anatomical site. This study examined associations between fracture site and health status, including physical function, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), and daily living tasks, among older adults without long-term care certification.</p> Methods <p>We analyzed data from a community-based mail survey conducted in a suburban city in Japan. The survey targeted 15,853 residents aged ≥ 65 years without long-term care certification. Among 10,600 valid respondents to the fracture-related question, 10,312 were classified into five groups: no fracture (<i>n</i> = 9,631), upper limb fracture (<i>n</i> = 223), lower limb fracture (<i>n</i> = 215), vertebral fracture (<i>n</i> = 195), and pelvic fracture (<i>n</i> = 48).</p> Results <p>Vertebral and lower limb fractures were significantly associated with reduced physical function, with the strongest association in the vertebral fracture group compared with the no-fracture group (prevalence ratio = 2.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.68–2.58). Regarding IADL, the vertebral and pelvic fracture group had significantly greater difficulty with multiple items, including transportation. Daily living limitations varied by fracture site: vertebral fractures were associated with difficulty carrying heavy objects or bending down, upper limb fractures with outdoor activities or garbage disposal, and lower limb fractures with tasks involving height.</p> Conclusions <p>Fractures were associated with functional limitations among older adults without long-term care certification. Particularly, vertebral fractures had the broadest impact, highlighting the need for targeted daily-life support.</p>