Association between telomere length and anorexia of ageing: a cross-sectional study conducted with community-dwelling older people.

BACKGROUND: To verify whether shorter telomere length is associated with anorexia of ageing in community-dwelling older people. METHODS: Conducted as a cross-sectional investigation, the study enrolled 448 participants residing in an urban area of a municipality in Brazil. Relative telomere length in blood samples was measured using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), whereas the presence of anorexia of ageing was determined using the Simplified Appetite Nutritional Questionnaire. Data analysis employed multiple logistic regression. RESULTS: Among the 448 older individuals surveyed, 70.69% were female, and the predominant age bracket ranged from 60 to 69 years (45.08%). Approximately 25% exhibited the shortest telomeric length, with a corresponding anorexia of ageing prevalence of 41.16%. Older individuals with diminished telomere lengths displayed an increased likelihood of experiencing anorexia of ageing (odds ratio [OR] = 1.92; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.12-3.29), independent of factors such as gender, age group, depressive symptoms, pain and performance in basic daily life activities. CONCLUSIONS: The observed association between anorexia of ageing and a telomeric biomarker underscores the imperative to meticulously evaluate the nutritional dimensions of older people, with a view to implementing interventions that may enhance their overall health status.

Comportamento preventivo contra covid-19 e sua relação com as condições sociais e de saúde de pessoas idosas / Preventive behavior against covid-19 and its relationship with the social and health conditions of older adults

Resumo Objetivo Descrever o perfil de comportamento preventivo contra covid-19 adotado pelas pessoas idosas e verificar sua relação com as condições sociais e de saúde. Método Estudo transversal e analítico realizado com 72 indivíduos (≥ 60 anos) cadastrados em uma Universidade Aberta para Pessoas Idosas, no município de Campinas, São Paulo, Brasil. Os participantes foram contatados por meio de ligações telefônicas, no período de novembro de 2020 a junho de 2021. Um total de 11 medidas preventivas foram analisadas para a identificação dos comportamentos adotados pelas pessoas idosas contra covid-19. Para a análise dos dados, utilizaram-se análise de componentes principais, testes qui-quadrado de Pearson e Exato de Fisher, com 95% de confiança. Resultados A adoção de comportamentos preventivos foi avaliada por meio das atividades de: higienização das mãos com água e sabão, uso do álcool em gel, uso de máscara facial e distanciamento social. A maioria dos indivíduos mencionou a adoção de comportamentos preventivos (79,2%), e verificou-se que aqueles com renda inferior a quatro salários-mínimos apresentaram maiores proporções de comportamento (87,5%) quando comparados aos indivíduos de renda superior a 10 salários-mínimos (46,2%) (p=0,038). Conclusão Houve adoção às medidas preventivas para covid-19 pelos idosos, influenciada pela renda. Os achados ressaltam a importância de estratégias educativas para promoção de comportamentos preventivos em saúde, considerando o contexto social.

Abstract Objective To delineate the profile of preventive behavior against covid-19 adopted by older adults and investigate its correlation with social and health conditions. Method A cross-sectional and analytical study conducted with 72 individuals (≥ 60 years) enrolled in an Open University for Older Adults in the municipality of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil. Participants were contacted via telephone from November 2020 to June 2021. A total of 11 preventive measures were scrutinized to identify the behaviors adopted by older adults against covid-19. Data analysis employed principal component analysis, Pearson's chi-square tests, and Fisher's exact tests, with a confidence level of 95%. Results The adoption of preventive behaviors was assessed through activities such as hand hygiene with soap and water, use of hand sanitizer, wearing facial masks, and practicing social distancing. The majority of individuals reported the adoption of preventive behaviors (79.2%), and it was observed that those with incomes below four minimum wages exhibited higher proportions of compliance (87.5%) compared to individuals with incomes exceeding 10 minimum wages (46.2%) (p=0.038). Conclusion Preventive measures against covid-19 were embraced by the older adults, influenced by income. The findings underscore the significance of educational strategies for fostering health preventive behaviors, taking into account the social context.

Quality of life of older adults in Family Health Strategy: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: With the increase in the older adult population, it is essential to identify the living and health conditions that can impact the quality of life of these individuals. OBJECTIVES: To identify the domains and factors associated with the quality of life of older adults under the Family Health Strategy program. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the municipality of Palmas, Tocantins, Brazil. METHODS: We assessed 449 older adults enrolled in the Family Health Strategy program. Data were collected between April and July, 2018. World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment (WHOQOL-OLD) was used to assess the quality of life (QoL) and multiple linear regression was used to estimate the factors associated with QoL. RESULTS: The QoL domain with the highest score was death and dying (mean = 70.4), and the lowest score was for sensory functions (mean = 61.0 points). The factors associated with QoL were single marital status (β = -4.55; P = 0.014), level of independence for daily living activities (β = 4.92; P < 0.001), self-assessment of regular health (β = 5.35; P < 0.001), and poor health (β = -8.67; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The death and dying domain of QoL presented the highest score. Marital status, impairment in daily activities, and health self-assessment were associated with QoL.

Driveline dressings used in heartmate patients and local complications: A retrospective cohort.

BACKGROUND: Patients with long-term ventricular assist devices (VAD) are predisposed to infection, bleeding, and pressure injuries at the insertion of the driveline. There is no consensus on a driveline dressing protocol. Chlorhexidine is often used to clean the driveline exit site and has been associated with lower rates of infection. For driveline coverage, bacteriostatic agents and transparent film have shown good results, but are costly. The same issue was associated with anchorage devices. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the types of dressings used in the driveline of patients using HeartMate (HM) and to describe the incidence density of local complications (infection, bleeding, and pressure injury) within 30 days postoperatively. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted and included 22 patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit after implantation of HM II and III in a Brazilian private hospital. RESULTS: Several types of dressings were used in the drivelines. There were 22 different types of dressings. Dressing type 6 (Chlorhexidine, Excilon, Gauze and IV3000) were the most used (45.4%). Subjects using the Flexi-Trak anchoring device had a higher rate of local bleeding (50.0%) and those who used the Hollister device had more infection (61.1%) and pressure injury associated with a medical device (11.1%), compared to others. Infection was the primary complication (45.4%), followed by local bleeding (27.7%). CONCLUSION: Despite the high variability of products used in the driveline of patients using HeartMate, the dressing made with chlorhexidine, silver-impregnated absorbent foam and transparent film, and the use of anchoring devices was the most frequently used. Infection was the most common complication.

Quality of life of older adults in Family Health Strategy: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: With the increase in the older adult population, it is essential to identify the living and health conditions that can impact the quality of life of these individuals. OBJECTIVES: To identify the domains and factors associated with the quality of life of older adults under the Family Health Strategy program. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the municipality of Palmas, Tocantins, Brazil. METHODS: We assessed 449 older adults enrolled in the Family Health Strategy program. Data were collected between April and July, 2018. World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment (WHOQOL-OLD) was used to assess the quality of life (QoL) and multiple linear regression was used to estimate the factors associated with QoL. RESULTS: The QoL domain with the highest score was death and dying (mean = 70.4), and the lowest score was for sensory functions (mean = 61.0 points). The factors associated with QoL were single marital status (ß = -4.55; P = 0.014), level of independence for daily living activities (ß = 4.92; P < 0.001), self-assessment of regular health (ß = 5.35; P < 0.001), and poor health (ß = -8.67; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The death and dying domain of QoL presented the highest score. Marital status, impairment in daily activities, and health self-assessment were associated with QoL.

Depressive symptoms and sleep in aged caregivers in a context of high social vulnerability.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between depressive symptoms and sleep quality in aged caregivers of elderly people, in a context of high social vulnerability. METHODS: A Cross-sectional study conducted between July 2019 and March 2020 with 65 aged caregivers of elderly people that were treated in five Family Heath Units from São Carlos, São Paulo. Instruments to characterize the caregivers and to evaluate the depressive symptoms and sleep quality were used in data collection. The Kruskal Wallis and Spearman Correlation tests were adopted. RESULTS: 73.9% of the caregivers presented poor sleep quality and 69.2% did not have depressive symptoms. In the caregivers with severe depressive symptoms, the mean sleep quality score was 11.4; in those with mild depressive symptoms, it was 9.0; and in those without depressive symptoms, it was 6.4. There was a direct and moderate correlation between sleep quality and depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION: There is a relationship between depressive symptoms and sleep quality in aged caregivers.

Perspectives of Brazilian Primary Care Nurses on Mental Health Care for Hypertensive Older Adults: A Qualitative Study.

Population longevity has been growing globally. In developing countries such as Brazil, the impact of this reality is enormous. The aging process is challenging for the healthcare system, making individuals more susceptible to chronic health conditions and mental health-related diseases. Primary healthcare (PHC) providers must be able to accompany older adults with their singularities in their work processes. This study aims to understand PHC nurses' perspectives on the mental health care of hypertensive older adults. This is a study with a qualitative approach, using in-depth interviews and a focus group with 16 nurses from the five Brazilian municipalities with the highest number of older adults. The themes that emerged from the data collection were possibilities of PHC, characterization of PHC, and mental health care in PHC. The study findings contribute to the knowledge base on how PHC nurses provide care to hypertensive older adults and which weaknesses they should overcome in their work environment. The different ways providers have been developing strategies to improve their care should be encouraged, improved, and systematized.

Expressions of ageism during the pandemic as perceived by older persons / Expressões de idadismo durante a pandemia segundo a percepção de pessoas idosas

OBJECTIVE: To describe expressions of ageism as perceived by older persons during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: Cross-sectional, exploratory, and descriptive study, including 134 older adults who answered a digital questionnaire, between January and July 2022. A word cloud was used to identify stereotypes. Prejudice was assessed using the Anxiety about Aging scale and discrimination was measured using the Ageism Survey. In addition, a semi-structured questionnaire was used to identify the types of discrimination experienced in the pandemic. RESULTS: Older persons tend to reproduce stereotypes associated with experience and wisdom, with the presence of biopsychosocial changes and dependence, and enjoyment of life. Most older persons reported discrimination (93.50%), especially perceived through "telling jokes about older persons" (72.39%). In the pandemic setting, the most perceived discriminatory manifestations referred to policies, practices, or norms related to the pandemic (38.06%) and when reading and watching news in the newspaper, the Internet, and television (35.07%). CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that older persons experienced ageism during the pandemic and show the need for programs and policies aimed at education on ageing, so as to reduce the stigmas of old age and discrimination, aiming to foster healthy ageing.

OBJETIVO: Descrever expressões de idadismo percebidas por pessoas idosas durante a pandemia de COVID-19. METODOLOGIA: Estudo transversal, exploratório e descritivo, realizado com 134 idosos que responderam a um questionário digital, entre janeiro e julho de 2022. Para identificar os estereótipos, elaborou-se uma nuvem de palavras. O preconceito foi avaliado por meio da Escala de Ansiedade sobre Envelhecer e a discriminação foi mensurada por intermédio do Ageism Survey. Além disso, utilizou-se um questionário semiestruturado para identificar os tipos de discriminação sofridos na pandemia. RESULTADOS: Pessoas idosas tendem a reproduzir estereótipos associados à experiência e sabedoria, com presença de alterações biopsicossociais e dependência, e de fruição da vida. A maioria das pessoas idosas relatou discriminação (93,50%), especialmente percebida por meio de "contar piadas sobre idosos" (72,39%). No contexto da pandemia, as manifestações discriminatórias mais percebidas referiram-se às políticas, práticas ou normas relacionadas à pandemia (38,06%) e ao ler e assistir notícias no jornal, internet e televisão (35,07%). CONCLUSÃO: Os dados sugerem o idadismo vivenciado por pessoas idosas na pandemia e evidenciam a necessidade de criação de programas e políticas voltados para a educação em envelhecer, a fim de reduzir os estigmas da velhice e a discriminação, com vistas à promoção do envelhecimento saudável.

Depressive symptoms and sleep in aged caregivers in a context of high social vulnerability / Síntomas depresivos y sueño de ancianos cuidadores inmersos en un contexto de alta vulnerabilidad social / Sintomas depressivos e sono de idosos cuidadores inseridos em contexto de alta vulnerabilidade social

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the relationship between depressive symptoms and sleep quality in aged caregivers of elderly people, in a context of high social vulnerability. Methods: A Cross-sectional study conducted between July 2019 and March 2020 with 65 aged caregivers of elderly people that were treated in five Family Heath Units from São Carlos, São Paulo. Instruments to characterize the caregivers and to evaluate the depressive symptoms and sleep quality were used in data collection. The Kruskal Wallis and Spearman Correlation tests were adopted. Results: 73.9% of the caregivers presented poor sleep quality and 69.2% did not have depressive symptoms. In the caregivers with severe depressive symptoms, the mean sleep quality score was 11.4; in those with mild depressive symptoms, it was 9.0; and in those without depressive symptoms, it was 6.4. There was a direct and moderate correlation between sleep quality and depressive symptoms. Conclusion: There is a relationship between depressive symptoms and sleep quality in aged caregivers.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar la relación entre síntomas depresivos y calidad del sueño de ancianos cuidadores de ancianos en contexto de alta vulnerabilidad social. Métodos: Estudio transversal, realizado de Julio/2019 a Marzo/2020 con 65 ancianos cuidadores de ancianos, atendidos por cinco Unidades de Salud de la Familia, en São Carlos, São Paulo. En la recopilación de datos se utilizaron instrumentos para caracterizar a los cuidadores, evaluar los síntomas depresivos y la calidad del sueño. Se adoptaron las pruebas de Kruskal Wallis y el coeficiente de correlación de Spearman. Resultados: 73,9% de los cuidadores presentaron sueño de mala calidad y 69,2% no presentaron síntomas depresivos. En los cuidadores con síntomas depresivos graves, la puntuación media de la calidad del sueño fue de 11,4, en aquellos con síntomas depresivos leves fue de 9,0 y en aquellos sin síntomas depresivos fue de 6,4. Hubo una correlación directa y moderada entre la calidad del sueño y los síntomas depresivos. Conclusión: Existe una relación entre los síntomas depresivos y la calidad del sueño en ancianos cuidadores.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a relação entre sintomas depressivos e qualidade do sono de idosos cuidadores de idosos em contexto de alta vulnerabilidade social. Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado de julho/2019 a março/2020 com 65 idosos cuidadores de idosos, atendidos por cinco Unidades de Saúde da Família, em São Carlos, São Paulo. Instrumentos para caracterizar os cuidadores, avaliar os sintomas depressivos e a qualidade do sono foram usados na coleta de dados. Os testes Kruskal Wallis e Correlação de Spearman foram adotados. Resultados: 73,9% dos cuidadores apresentaram sono de má qualidade e 69,2% não apresentaram sintomas depressivos. Nos cuidadores com sintomas depressivos severos, o escore médio de qualidade do sono foi 11,4, nos com sintomas depressivos leves foi 9,0 e naqueles sem sintomas depressivos foi 6,4. Houve correlação direta e moderada entre qualidade do sono e sintomas depressivos. Conclusão: Existe relação entre sintomas depressivos e qualidade do sono em idosos cuidadores.

Qualidade de vida de cuidadores familiares de pessoas idosas acamadas / Calidad de vida de cuidadores familiares de adultos mayores encamados / Quality of life of family caregivers of bedridden older adults

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a qualidade de vida dos cuidadores familiares e sua relação com as condições socioeconômicas, de saúde e de prestação de cuidado. Métodos Estudo transversal e analítico realizado na cidade de Palmas/TO, no período de 2020-2022, com amostra de 49 cuidadores familiares de idosos acamados. A qualidade de vida foi avaliada pelo instrumento "12-Item- Short- Form Health Survey" (SF-12). Para verificar a relação entre os componentes físico e mental e variáveis independentes, utilizou-se o Teste T. Resultados Os cuidadores apresentaram valores médios do componente físico de 43,26 pontos (IC 95%: 39,87 - 46,64) e no componente mental, de 50,98 pontos (IC 95%: 47,96 - 54,00). Encontraram-se diferenças significativas entre os escores do componente mental para disfunção familiar, consumo de bebida alcóolica e sobrecarga; e, entre o componente físico para multimorbidade, polifarmácia, índice de massa corpórea e sobrecarga. Conclusão Os achados deste estudo demonstraram relação entre condições sociais, de saúde, cuidado e qualidade de vida, concedendo assim conhecimento aos profissionais de saúde para orientá-los no planejamento de ações que visem a melhoria da qualidade de vida do cuidador.

Resumen Objetivo Evaluar la calidad de vida de los cuidadores familiares y su relación con las condiciones socioeconómicas, de salud y de prestación de cuidado. Métodos Estudio transversal y analítico realizado en la ciudad de Palmas, estado de Tocantins, en el período 2020-2022, con una muestra de 49 cuidadores familiares de adultos mayores encamados. La calidad de vida fue evaluada mediante el instrumento "12-Item- Short- Form Health Survey" (SF-12). Se utilizó el test-T para verificar la relación entre los componentes físicos y mentales y las variables independientes. Resultados Los cuidadores presentaron un valor promedio del componente físico de 43,26 puntos (IC 95 %: 39,87 - 46,64) y del componente mental de 50,98 puntos (IC 95 %: 47,96 - 54,00). Se observaron diferencias significativas en la puntuación del componente mental en disfunción familiar, consumo de bebida alcohólica y sobrecarga; y en el componente físico, en multimorbilidad, polifarmacia, índice de masa corporal y sobrecarga. Conclusión Los resultados de este estudio demostraron que existe relación entre las condiciones sociales, de salud, cuidado y calidad de vida, lo que permite que los profesionales de la salud tengan conocimientos para la planificación de acciones que busquen mejorar la calidad de vida de del cuidador.

Abstract Objective To assess the quality of life of family caregivers and their relationship with socioeconomic, health and care conditions. Methods a cross-sectional and analytical study carried out in the city of Palmas/TO, in the period of 2020-2022, with a sample of 49 family caregivers of bedridden older adults. Quality of life was assessed by the instrument "12-Item- Short- Form Health Survey" (SF-12). To verify the relationship between physical and mental components and independent variables, the t-test was used. Results Caregivers presented mean values of the physical component of 43.26 points (95% CI: 39.87 - 46.64) and the mental component of 50.98 points (95% CI: 47.96 - 54.00). Significant differences were found between the scores of the mental component for family dysfunction, alcohol consumption and overload, and between the physical component for multimorbidity, polypharmacy, body mass index and overload. Conclusion The findings of this study demonstrated a relationship between social conditions, health, care and quality of life, thus granting knowledge to health professionals to guide them in planning actions aimed at improving caregivers' quality of life.

Percepções de cuidado ao idoso dependente: estudo qualitativo / Perceptions of care for dependent older adults: a qualitative study / Percepciones de cuidado a ancianos dependientes: estudio cualitativo

Objetivo: compreender as percepções de cuidadores familiares sobre os cuidados aos idosos dependentes. Método: estudo qualitativo na perspectiva do Interacionismo Simbólico, conduzido pelo movimento interpretativo das experiências de cuidado de idosos acamados, após aprovação dos Comitês de Ética em Pesquisa das instituições envolvidas. Participaram oito cuidadores residentes em Palmas, TO, em janeiro a julho de 2020. Os dados foram coletados por meio da observação não participante e entrevista semiestruturada e utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo. Resultados: a partir das falas dos cuidadores, identificaram-se três categorias: "Retribuindo os cuidados de outrora", "Bem-estar, gratidão e afeto" e "Dificuldades no cuidado". O ato de cuidar foi expresso como oportunidade para retribuição, envolvido por sentimentos de satisfação, alegrias e gratidão, mas também, tristeza, mágoa, frustração, impotência e medo da finitude do idoso. Considerações finais: o ato de cuidar de idosos dependentes é marcado por experiências afetivas que provocam vivências de momentos de alegrias e de dificuldades.

Objective: to understand family caregivers' perceptions of care for dependent older adults. Method: this qualitative study was conducted, after research ethics committee approval, from the perspective of Symbolic Interactionism, by the interpretative movement of experiences of caring for very dependent older adults. Eight caregivers residing in Palmas, Tocantins, participated between January and July 2020. Data were collected through non-participant observation and semi-structured interview, and underwent content analysis. Results: the categories identified from the caregivers' statements were: "Repaying care from the past", "Wellbeing, gratefulness, and affection" and "Difficulties in care". The act of caring was expressed as an opportunity for retribution, enveloped in feelings of satisfaction, joy, and gratitude, but also sadness, grief, frustration, impotence, and fear of the older person's finitude. Final considerations: the act of caring for dependent older people is marked by affective experiences that lead to moments of joy and difficulties.

Objetivo: comprender las percepciones de los cuidadores familiares sobre el cuidado de ancianos dependientes. Método: estudio cualitativo en la perspectiva del Interaccionismo Simbólico, realizado por el movimiento interpretativo de las experiencias de cuidado a ancianos encamados, tras la aprobación de los Comités de Ética en Investigación de las instituciones involucradas. Participaron ocho cuidadores residentes en Palmas, TO, de enero a julio de 2020. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de observación no participante y se utilizó análisis de contenido. Resultados: a partir de las declaraciones de los cuidadores, fueron identificadas tres categorías: "Retribuyendo el cuidado del pasado", "Bienestar, gratitud y afecto" y "Dificultades en el cuidado". El acto de cuidar se expresó como una oportunidad de retribución, acompañado de sentimientos de satisfacción, alegría y gratitud, pero también de tristeza, pena, frustración, impotencia y miedo a la finitud del anciano. Consideraciones finales: el acto de cuidar a ancianos dependientes está marcado por experiencias afectivas que conducen a vivencias de momentos de alegría y dificultades.

Association of Social Support Network with Telomere Length: A Cross-Sectional Study with Community-Dwelling Older Adults.

Considering that telomere length can be determined not only by issues related to cell biology but also by aspects related to social factors and environmental exposures, studies on the relationship between social aspects and telomere length can help to better understand the still scarcely known aspects of the human aging process. Thus, this research seeks to verify whether social support networks are associated with telomere length in older adults. This is a cross-sectional study conducted with 448 individuals aged at least 60 years living in the urban area of an inland Brazilian municipality. Relative quantification of telomere length was obtained through real-time qPCR. Social support was assessed through the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Scale. Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression were used in data analysis. The evaluated social support networks for older adults consist in a mean of 16.4 people, and the percentage of older adults who reported up to five members in their network was 27.75%. Shorter telomere length was identified in 25% of the participants, and the older adults who reported having up to five members in their support network were more likely to have a shorter telomere length than those who reported more numerous networks (odds ratio: 1.89, p = 0.011) regardless of gender, age, household arrangement, cognitive decline, and dependence for basic and instrumental activities of daily living, which suggests that measures that stimulate the creation and maintenance of social support networks should be implemented to improve older adults' health.

Correlation of family functionality and burden of informal caregivers of hospitalized older adults.

AIM: to analyze the relationship between family functionality and burden of informal caregivers of hospitalized older people. METHODS: this is a cross-sectional study conducted with 98 informal caregivers of hospitalized older people in an inpatient unit of a large hospital in São Carlos, São Paulo. For data collection were used questionnaires to sociodemographic and care context characterization, to evaluate burden and family functionality. Descriptive analyzes and Spearman's correlation coefficient were used. RESULTS: female caregivers predominated, who took care of their parents and had no training. Approximately 59.8% of caregivers had good family functionality and 49.5% scored for mild to moderate burden. There was a negative correlation, moderate magnitude, between family functionality and burden (p<0,001). The higher the burden score, the lower the family functionality score and vice versa. CONCLUSION: caregivers with high burden had worse family functionality. Therefore, nurses need to identify such conditions early and implement assertive interventions so that the family functions as a therapeutic resource.

The Effect of Progressive Resistance Training on Functionality and Handgrip Strength in the Older Individuals of a Community: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

Muscle weakness is associated with negative outcomes, in addition to being related to the pathogenesis of frailty and functional disability in the older individuals. Muscle strength and functionality are considered biomarkers of aging. Progressive resistance training (PRT) is a type of training that has been the subject of studies as it presents itself as a therapeutic option to fight the reduction of muscle strength and functionality in older individuals. However, few studies have assessed the clinically relevant gains in the levels of muscle strength and functionality of older individuals after PRT, in addition to the need of testing new PRT approaches, including individualization and periodization in training programs. Therefore, this article aims to assess the effect of an individual and periodized PRT protocol on handgrip strength (HS) and functionality in older individuals. Thus, the study sample included 69 older individuals, divided into 2 groups: case (n = 41) and control (n = 28). The case group participated in a PRT protocol for 12 weeks, with two weekly sessions. When compared to the control group, which received only health education, the individuals in the case group had a greater magnitude of improvement in all variables related to the assessed functionality (Timed up and go test, gait speed, and HS), proving the applicability of the assessed protocol to improve strength and functionality in the older individuals of a community.

Higher hemoglobin levels are associated with better physical performance among older adults without anemia: a longitudinal analysis.

BACKGROUND: Anemia is the most common hematological abnormality among older adults, and it is associated with decreased physical performance. But the role of hemoglobin in the absence of anemia remains unclear. Thus, this study aimed to assess the impact of hemoglobin levels on physical performance in Brazilian older adults without anemia. METHODS: The study is longitudinal in that it relies on two waves of the Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento (SABE; Health, Well-being, and Aging) study: 2010 and 2015-2016. Mixed-effects linear regression was used to determine the effects of the hemoglobin concentrations on the Short Physical Performance Battery-SPPB over time among the 1,023 who had complete data and did not have anemia in 2010. In the follow-up, there were 567 without anemia. RESULTS: In analyses adjusted for age, education, comorbidities, body mass index, and physical inactivity, we found a differential association between hemoglobin concentration and SBBP by sex, with a positive interaction (ß Hb*female= 0.20, 95% CI 0.04,0.37). At lower levels of hemoglobin, women have lower levels of SPPB than men, but at higher levels of hemoglobin concentration, there are no sex differences in physical performance. In addition, higher age was negatively associated with SPPB levels and cardiometabolic diseases, other diseases, and physical inactivity. Education was positively associated with physical performance. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates that higher hemoglobin levels were associated with better physical performance among older adults without anemia in Brazil. However, there were sex differences in this association. This finding is important because, in clinical practice, most health professionals focus on the World Health Organization definition of anemia. Our study suggests the importance of hemoglobin levels among older adults, even those without anemia, and highlights sex differences.

Atitudes, conhecimento e interesse dos futuros profissionais em relação à geriatria: um estudo transversal / Attitudes, knowledge, and interest of future professionals towards geriatrics: a cross-sectional study / Actitudes, conocimientos e interés de los futuros profesionales hacia la geriatría: un estudio transversal

OBJETIVO: este estudo teve como objetivo analisar as atitudes, conhecimentos e interesse dos estudantes de saúde em relação à geriatria e gerontologia e avaliar suas associações. MÉTODO: participaram do estudo 225 estudantes do último ano dos cursos de Enfermagem, Medicina, Fonoaudiologia, Farmácia e Educação Física. Os questionários incluíram um formulário de características demográficas, a Escala de Diferencial Semântico de Envelhecimento e Questionário Palmore - Fatos sobre o envelhecimento. Foram utilizados modelos de regressão múltipla. RESULTADOS: a atitude em relação aos idosos foi negativa (50,67%) e associada ao menor interesse. O nível de conhecimento foi melhor entre os estudantes de Enfermagem, Medicina e estudantes mais velhos. O aumento do conhecimento se relacionou com a atitude e, no total, 71,43% apresentavam interesse em geriatria. O interesse esteve fortemente associado ao gênero feminino. CONCLUSÃO: os estudantes apresentaram um alto nível de conhecimento, interesse em geriatria e uma atitude negativa em relação aos cuidados geriátricos. Ações focadas na capacitação em geriatria devem ser implementadas.

OBJECTIVE: this study aimed to examine health students' attitudes, knowledge, and interest towards geriatrics and gerontology and evaluate associations. METHOD: a total of 225 students in the final year of Nursing, Medicine, Speech therapy, Pharmacy, and Physical education participated. The questionnaires included a characterization form, the Aging Semantic Differential Scale, and the Palmore Fact on Aging Quiz. Multiple regression models were used. RESULTS: the attitude towards older people was negative (50.67%) and associated with less interest. The level of knowledge was better among Nursing, Medicine, and older students. Increased knowledge was related to attitude and, in total, 71.43% were interested in geriatrics. Interest was strongly associated with female gender. CONCLUSION: students showed a high level of knowledge, interest in geriatrics, and a negative attitude towards geriatric care. Actions focused on geriatric training should be implemented.

OBJETIVO: este estudio tuvo como objetivo examinar las actitudes, los conocimientos y el interés de los estudiantes de salud hacia la geriatría y la gerontología y evaluar las asociaciones. MÉTODO: participaron un total de 225 estudiantes de los últimos años de cursos de Enfermería, Medicina, Fonoaudiología, Farmacia y Educación Física. Los cuestionarios incluían un formulario de caracterización, la Escala de Diferencial Semántico de Envejecimiento y el Cuestionario de Hechos sobre el Envejecimiento de Palmore. Se utilizaron modelos de regresión múltiple. RESULTADOS: la actitud hacia las personas mayores fue negativa (50,67%) y asociada a un menor interés. El nivel de conocimiento fue mejor entre los estudiantes de Enfermería, Medicina y de edad mayor. El aumento de conocimientos estuvo relacionado con la actitud, en total, el 71,43% estaba interesado en la geriatría. El interés estuvo fuertemente asociado con el género femenino. CONCLUSIÓN: los estudiantes mostraron un alto nivel de conocimiento, interés por la geriatría y una actitud negativa hacia la atención geriátrica. Deben implementarse acciones enfocadas a la formación geriátrica.

Burden, satisfaction caregiving, and family relations in informal caregivers of older adults.

Introduction: Family caregivers of older persons devote much of their time and energy to caring for another person. This exposure may burden caregivers and compromise their health and quality of life. Objective: To investigate the relationship between burden, sociodemographic, caregiving, and health characteristics of informal caregivers of dependent older adults. Methods: Cross-sectional and analytical study carried out in Palmas, Tocantins, Brazil, with 52 informal caregivers of older persons who need full-time help for basic living activities. Caregivers' burden was assessed by Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Data were analyzed using a T-test, Pearson's correlation, and Multiple Linear Regression. Results: The ZBI mean score of caregivers was 26.3 points (SD = 14.6; min = 0; max = 68). Burden scores were higher among caregivers who did not receive help from other people in care (p = 0.016), reported family dysfunction (p = 0.001), and had depression symptoms (p = 0.007). A correlation was found between the scores of burdens and satisfaction with care (r = 0.76; p < 0.001) and perceived material support (r = -0.30; p = 0.40). Satisfaction with care (ß: 0.61; p < 0.001) and family dysfunction (ß: 8.07; p = 0.033) were significantly associated with the burden score. Conclusion: Caregivers with dysfunctional families and satisfaction with the care presented the highest-burden scores. The findings reveal the need for strategies to facilitate mediation and reduce caregiver burden by strengthening the family network support or providing professional assistance.

Correlation of family functionality and burden of informal caregivers of hospitalized older adults / Correlación de funcionalidad familiar y sobrecarga de cuidadores informales de ancianos hospitalizados / Correlação da funcionalidade familiar e sobrecarga de cuidadores informais de idosos hospitalizados

ABSTRACT Aim to analyze the relationship between family functionality and burden of informal caregivers of hospitalized older people. Methods this is a cross-sectional study conducted with 98 informal caregivers of hospitalized older people in an inpatient unit of a large hospital in São Carlos, São Paulo. For data collection were used questionnaires to sociodemographic and care context characterization, to evaluate burden and family functionality. Descriptive analyzes and Spearman's correlation coefficient were used. Results female caregivers predominated, who took care of their parents and had no training. Approximately 59.8% of caregivers had good family functionality and 49.5% scored for mild to moderate burden. There was a negative correlation, moderate magnitude, between family functionality and burden (p<0,001). The higher the burden score, the lower the family functionality score and vice versa. Conclusion caregivers with high burden had worse family functionality. Therefore, nurses need to identify such conditions early and implement assertive interventions so that the family functions as a therapeutic resource.

RESUMEN Objetivo analizar la relación entre la funcionalidad familiar y la sobrecarga de los cuidadores informales de ancianos hospitalizados. Métodos estudio transversal realizado con 98 cuidadores informales de ancianos hospitalizados en una unidad de internación de un gran hospital de São Carlos, São Paulo. Para la recolección de datos, se utilizaron cuestionarios para caracterizar sociodemográficos y contexto de atención, para evaluar la sobrecarga y funcionalidad familiar. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos y coeficiente de correlación de Spearman. Resultados predominaban las cuidadoras femeninas, que cuidaban a sus padres y carecían de formación. Acerca de 59,8% de los cuidadores mostró una buena funcionalidad familiar y 49,5% puntuó por sobrecarga leve a moderada. Hubo una correlación negativa, de magnitud moderada, entre funcionalidad familiar y sobrecarga (p <0,001). Cuanto mayor puntuación de carga, menor puntuación de funcionalidad familiar y viceversa Conclusión los cuidadores con alta carga tenían peor funcionalidad familiar. Por lo tanto, las enfermeras necesitan identificar estas condiciones de manera temprana e implementar intervenciones asertivas para que la familia pueda funcionar como un recurso terapéutico.

RESUMO Objetivo analisar a relação entre funcionalidade familiar e sobrecarga de cuidadores informais de idosos hospitalizados. Método estudo transversal, quantitativo, realizado com 98 cuidadores informais de idosos hospitalizados em São Carlos, São Paulo. Para a coleta de dados, foram utilizados questionários para caracterização sociodemográfica e do contexto de cuidado, para avaliação da sobrecarga e da funcionalidade familiar. Foram usadas análises descritivas e coeficiente de correlação de Spearman. Resultados predominaram cuidadores do sexo feminino, que cuidavam de seus progenitores e não possuíam capacitação. Aproximadamente 59,8% deles apresentaram boa funcionalidade familiar, e 49,5%, sobrecarga leve a moderada. Houve correlação negativa, de moderada magnitude, entre funcionalidade familiar e sobrecarga (p<0,001). Quanto maior o escore de sobrecarga, menor o escore de funcionalidade familiar e vice-versa. Conclusão cuidadores com alta sobrecarga apresentaram pior funcionalidade familiar. Diante disso, enfermeiros precisam identificar precocemente tais condições e implementar intervenções assertivas para que a família funcione como um recurso terapêutico.

Apoio social e funcionalidade familiar: um estudo transversal com pessoas idosas no contexto da covid-19 / Social support and family functioning: a cross-sectional study of older people in the context of COVID-19

Resumo Objetivo Verificar a associação entre apoio social percebido e funcionalidade familiar em pessoas idosas durante a pandemia de covid-19. Método Trata-se de um estudo transversal, realizado com 72 participantes idosos que estavam matriculados em uma Universidade Aberta para Pessoas Idosas, no interior do estado de São Paulo, Brasil. As variáveis analisadas foram: condições socioeconômicas, demográficas, apoio social (Escala do Medical Outcomes Study) e funcionalidade familiar (Apgar de família). Utilizaram-se os testes: Qui-Quadrado, Mann Whitney e Regressão de Poisson Múltipla para as análises dos dados, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados O tipo de apoio com maiores escores médios foi o afetivo (95,1 pontos) e o menor, o emocional (87,4 pontos). A disfunção familiar foi de 22,2%. A cada ponto do escore de apoio afetivo havia o decréscimo na probabilidade de apresentar disfunção familiar. (RP=0,96; p=0,001). Conclusão O apoio afetivo associou-se à funcionalidade familiar. Tais achados demonstram a importância de identificar a estrutura, dinâmica e relações familiares para planejar o cuidado integral à saúde da população idosa.

Abstract Objective To determine the association between perceived social support and family functioning in older people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method A cross-sectional study was carried out of 72 participants aged ≥60 years enrolled at an Open University of the Third Age (U3A) in the interior of Sao Paulo state, Brazil. The variables analyzed were socioeconomic and demographic conditions, social support (Medical Outcomes Study Scale), and family functioning (Family APGAR). The Chi-Square, Mann-Whitney, and Multivariate Poisson Regression tests were used for data analysis, with a significance level of 5%. Results The type of support with the highest mean scores was affectionate (95.1 points) while the lowest was emotional (87.4 points). Family dysfunction rate was 22.2%. For every additional point of affectionate support score, there was a decrease in the probability of presenting family dysfunction (OR=0.96; p=0.001). Conclusion Affectionate support was associated with family functioning. These findings highlight the importance of identifying family structure, dynamics, and relationships in planning comprehensive health care for the older population.