Objective To conduct a scoping review of studies on intrinsic capacity in older adults, and to provide references for further studies. Methods This scoping review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. We searched international and domestic databases for papers written in English and Chinese regarding intrinsic capacity in older adults, from database inception until August 9, 2024. Two independent reviewers retrieved, summarized, and analyzed these papers. Results We included 37 papers. The incidence of intrinsic capacity decline in older adults ranged from 19.23% to 98.00%. The influencing factors of intrinsic capacity in older adults were divided into five categories including demographic characteristics, socioeconomic factors, disease conditions, psychological and behavioral factors, and biomarkers. Three tools were used to assess intrinsic capacity in older adults. Interventions included exercise training, multidomain interventions and diet management. Conclusion The incidence of intrinsic capacity decline in older adults exhibits high heterogeneity and is influenced by multiple factors. Future researchers should develop indigenous high-quality assessment tools to accurately identify this decline. Additionally, long-term intervention using multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral approaches should be provided to improve intrinsic capacity of the elderly.