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.

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.

Nutritional status and risk for disability in instrumental activities of daily living in older Brazilians.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to examine the association between nutritional status and the incidence of disability regarding instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) among older adults. DESIGN: The study is part of the longitudinal SABE (Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento; Health, Wellbeing and Ageing) Study that began in 2000 (first wave) with a multistage, clustered, probabilistic sample (n 2143) of older adults (≥60 years). The second wave was carried out in 2006, when 1115 elders were re-interviewed. The dependent variable was the occurrence of disability in 2006 (report of difficulty on ≥1 IADL). Nutritional status (measured at baseline) was classified on the basis of BMI: ≤23·0 kg/m2 (underweight); >23·0 and <28·0 kg/m2 (ideal range - reference); ≥28·0 and <30·0 kg/m2 (overweight); and ≥30·0 kg/m2 (obesity). SETTING: São Paulo, Brazil. SUBJECTS: One thousand and thirty-four individuals without difficulties regarding IADL in 2000 were selected, 611 of whom were re-interviewed in 2006. RESULTS: In the multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for baseline variables (gender, age, number of chronic diseases, stroke, osteoarthritis and cognitive status), underweight (OR = 2·03; P = 0·034) and obesity (OR = 1·79; P = 0·022) remained associated with disability. CONCLUSIONS: Both underweight and obesity are associated with an increased risk of developing disability regarding IADL among older adults, in an independent fashion of other risk factors. Thus, adequate nutritional status is a key point to consider in the establishment of preventive measures.

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.

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.

[The analysis of activities not performed by the nursing team regarding the diagnosis of ineffective breathing pattern in the elderly]. / Análise de atividades não realizadas pela equipe de enfermagem para o diagnóstico padrão respiratório ineficaz em idosos.

The objective of this cross-sectional, descriptive study was to identify the activities of the Nursing Intervention Classification considered as priorities for an Ineffective Breathing Pattern and not performed for elderly inpatients of a teaching hospital in the state of Goiás. The study participants were 43 nursing professionals, and data collection was performed in the period spanning October to December 2008, after receiving approval from the Ethics Committee. It was observed that among the 67 activities considered to be priorities for the referred diagnosis, only seven were performed by all of the participants; the other activities, with a varied frequency, were not performed, with the main reason cited being that a professional from a different area completed the activity. It is understood that the fact that the nursing staff does not perform these activities can cause lack of complete coverage in nursing care; therefore there is a need for a legal apparatus to describe the activities that comprise professional practice exclusive to nursing personnel and those activities that have an interdisciplinary nature.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Social network and older people's functionality: Health, Well-being, and Aging (SABE) study evidences. / Redes sociais e funcionalidade em pessoas idosas: evidências do estudo Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento (SABE).

INTRODUCTION: Possessing active social networks seems to positively influence the functional performance of elderly people. OBJECTIVE: To verify the association between the characteristics of social networks of the elderly people and the emergence of functional impairment. METHODS: This is a longitudinal population-based study, which used the 2006 (n = 1,413) and 2010 (n = 990) cohorts of the Health, Well-Being, and Aging (SABE) Study. To characterize the social networks, the following variables were used: number of members in the network; living arrangements; sex and age of the members; coresidence with children or only elderly individuals; satisfaction with the relationships; and receiving and offering social support (financial, material, emotional, performing tasks inside and outside the home, providing companionship, and personal care). Logistic regression was used to analyze the data. All ethical guidelines were followed. RESULTS: The social networks of the elderly people had an average of 8.15 members and consisted predominantly of family members aged between 15 and 59 years. Dependent elderly people received more material support, help in performing household tasks and those outside the home, and personal care, while the independent elderly people received more emotional support and companionship. Provision of social support (OR = 0.32, 95%CI 0.14 - 0.71) decreased the chances of developing dependency, independent of sociodemographic and health conditions. CONCLUSION: The strengthening of social networks in old age should be encouraged since confidence in informal care offered, mainly by families, may not be the best option for dealing with the growing demand for care that accompanies the aging of the population.

INTRODUÇÃO: Possuir redes sociais ativas parece influenciar positivamente o desempenho funcional de idosos. OBJETIVO: Verificar a associação entre as características das redes sociais de idosos e o surgimento de comprometimento funcional. MÉTODOS: Estudo longitudinal de base populacional que utilizou as coortesde2006 (n = 1.413) e 2010 (n = 990) do Estudo Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento (SABE). Para caracterização das redes sociais utilizou-se as seguintes variáveis: número de integrantes da rede; arranjo domiciliar; sexo e idade dos integrantes; co-residência com criança ou apenas com idosos; satisfação com a relação; recebimento e oferecimento de apoio social (financeiro, material, emocional, realização de tarefas dentro e fora de casa, companhia e cuidados pessoais). Utilizou-se regressão logística para a análise dos dados. Todos os cuidados éticos foram observados. RESULTADOS: As redes sociais dos idosos possuem, em média, 8,15 integrantes e são constituídas predominantemente por familiares com idade entre 15 e 59 anos. Idosos dependentes recebem mais apoio material, para realização de tarefas domésticas, fora de casa e cuidados pessoais, enquanto os idosos independentes recebem mais apoio emocional e companhia. Oferecer apoio social (OR = 0,32; IC95% 0,14-0,71) diminuiu as chances de desenvolver dependência, independente de condições sociodemográficas e de saúde. CONCLUSÃO: Deve-se estimular o fortalecimento das redes sociais na velhice, uma vez que a confiança no cuidado informal, oferecido, principalmente pelas famílias, pode não ser a melhor opção para lidar com a demanda de cuidado crescente que acompanha o envelhecimento da população brasileira.

Non-Japanese, Japanese and Japanese descendant older adults in the Health, Wellbeing and Aging Study: functional and health conditions. / Idosos não japoneses, japoneses e descendentes de japoneses no Estudo Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento: condições funcionais e de saúde.

INTRODUCTION: The city of São Paulo has the largest community of Japanese descendants outside of Japan. OBJECTIVES: To compare the demographic, economic, functional, and health conditions of non-Japanese, Japanese, and their descendants; and to analyze comparatively the functional and health conditions of older adults born in Japan and their descendants born in Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out in the city of São Paulo, in 2010, with 1,345 older adults (≥ 60 years) participants in the SABE Study (Health, Welfare and Aging). The participants were classified as non-Japanese (not born in Japan), Japanese (born in Japan) or have reported being a direct descendant of Japanese. For the data analysis, χ2 test with Rao-Scott correction was used. RESULTS: Of the 1,345 older adults, 3.3% were Japanese or descendants. These differed from non-Japanese in terms of higher education and reported income sufficiency. Among older adults born in Japan, there was a higher proportion of oldest old (38.8%), cardiovascular diseases (48.9%) and cognitive decline (26.7%). CONCLUSION: It is noted that Japanese and descendants older adults presented better functionality when compared to non-Japanese. Among Japanese and descendants, differences in the profile of diseases were observed. It is believed that such results may be due to cultural influences.

INTRODUÇÃO: A cidade de São Paulo conta com a maior comunidade de descendentes japoneses fora do Japão. OBJETIVOS: Comparar as condições demográficas, econômicas, funcionais e de saúde de idosos não japoneses, japoneses e descendentes de japoneses, bem como analisar comparativamente as condições funcionais e de saúde de idosos nascidos no Japão e de seus descendentes nascidos no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado no município de São Paulo, no ano de 2010, com 1.345 idosos (≥ 60 anos) participantes do Estudo Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento (SABE). Os idosos foram classificados em não japoneses (não nascidos no Japão), japoneses (nascidos no Japão) ou descendentes diretos de japoneses. Para a análise dos dados, utilizou-se o teste do χ2 com correção Rao-Scott. RESULTADOS: Dos 1.345 idosos, 3,3% eram japoneses ou descendentes. Esses se diferenciavam dos não japoneses quanto à escolaridade mais elevada e suficiência de renda. Entre os idosos nascidos no Japão, houve maior proporção de longevos (38,8%), portadores de doenças cardiovasculares (48,9%) e de declínio cognitivo (26,7%). CONCLUSÃO: Nota-se que os idosos japoneses/descendentes apresentaram melhor funcionalidade quando comparados aos não japoneses. Já entre japoneses e descendentes, observou-se diferenças no perfil das doenças. Acredita-se que tais resultados possam ser decorrentes das influências culturais.

Performance pattern of activities of daily living for older adults in the city of São Paulo in 2000, 2006, and 2010. / Padrão do desempenho nas atividades de vida diária em idosos no município de São Paulo, nos anos 2000, 2006 e 2010.

INTRODUCTION: Functionality in aging is associated with the autonomy and independence of older people. OBJECTIVE: To identify and hierarchize the difficulties reported by older adults in performing activities of daily living. METHOD: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, household-based study that used the Health, Well-being, and Aging Study (Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento - SABE) database of 2000, 2006, and 2010. We evaluated the functionality using reports on the difficulty in performing basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL and IADL, respectively). The Guttman scaling assessed the hierarchy of functional impairment. RESULTS: The prevalence of reported difficulty in performing one or more IADLs was 35.4, 45.8, and 41.0%; while for ADLs, it was 16.3, 13.3, and 17.5%, in 2000, 2006, and 2010, respectively. In ten years of follow-up, the variability in prevalence among women ranged from 42.3 to 54.6% for IADL impairment, and 17.0 to 20.4% for ADL. For men, it varied from 25.6 to 33.1% for IADL impairment, and 8.0 to 13.7% for ADL. In the three waves, the activities with the highest reported difficulty were using transportation, performing heavy tasks, and managing finances, while feeding was the least prevalent. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of functional impairment increased in ten years, with higher variability among women and with advancing age. These results contribute to the planning of services and adequate distribution of existing resources as they reveal the needs and care required.

INTRODUÇÃO: A funcionalidade no envelhecimento está associada à autonomia e independência das pessoas idosas. OBJETIVO: Identificar e hierarquizar as dificuldades referidas no desempenho das atividades de vida diária de idosos. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal e descritivo, de base domiciliar, que utilizou a base de dados do Estudo SABE (Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento) nos anos de 2000, 2006 e 2010. A funcionalidade foi avaliada por meio do relato de dificuldade no desempenho das atividades básicas (ABVD) e instrumentais de vida diária (AIVD). A hierarquização do comprometimento funcional foi avaliada pelo escalonamento de Guttman. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de dificuldade referida no desempenho de uma ou mais AIVDs foi de 35,4; 45,8 e 41,0% e para as ABVDs foi de 16,3; 13,3 e 17,5%; respectivamente nos anos de 2000, 2006 e 2010. Em dez anos de acompanhamento observa-se, entre as mulheres, variabilidade na prevalência de 42,3 a 54,6% de comprometimento nas AIVDs e de 17,0 a 20,4% nas ABVDs e, entre os homens, de 25,6 a 33,1% em AIVDs e de 8,0 a 13,7% em ABVDs. Nas três ondas, as atividades com maior relato de dificuldade foram utilizar transporte, realizar tarefas pesadas e cuidar das finanças, enquanto o ato de comer foi a menos prevalente. CONCLUSÃO: Houve aumento na prevalência de comprometimento funcional no período de dez anos, com maior variabilidade entre as mulheres e com o avançar da idade. Esses resultados contribuem para o planejamento dos serviços e a distribuição adequada dos recursos existentes por desvelar as necessidades e os cuidados necessários.

Caregivers of elderly and excessive tension associated to care: evidence of the Sabe Study. / Cuidadores de idosos e tensão excessiva associada ao cuidado: evidências do Estudo SABE.

INTRODUCTION: Multiple illness and injury classes can cause a functional disability of the elderly, or the right to seek help from another person. Caregiving can be generated without the caregiver functions, leading to burden. OBJECTIVE: to describe the sociodemographic and care profile of caregivers of the elderly and to analyze the factors associated with excessive stress regarding care. METHOD: This is a cross-sectional study, part of the SABE (Health, well-being and aging) Study, carried out in the city of São Paulo in 2010, with 362 caregivers. The excessive stress associated with care was evaluated by the Zarit Scale, and the load was found to be less than 24 points and the presence of burden was considered, with scores ≥ 24 points. Hierarchical Logistic Regression was used to analyze the factors associated with the stress of family caregivers. RESULTS: Most of the caregivers were family members (91.5%), being female (75.4%), mean age 53.9 years (SD ± 15.5), married (65.3%), lived in the same household with the elderly (68.2%). One-third of them presented burden, which was associated with age (OR = 1.04, p = 0.001), family dysfunction (OR = 5.60, p = 0.000), continuous care (OR = 78, p = 0.030). CONCLUSIONS: The data reveal the need to maintain their needs and support to caregivers, especially their relatives and their sources of life and their debts.

INTRODUÇÃO: A presença de múltiplas doenças e agravos crônicos pode ocasionar a incapacidade funcional do idoso, o qual poderá requerer a necessidade de ajuda de outra pessoa. A prestação de cuidados diários e ininterruptos pode gerar no cuidador situações estressoras, levando-o a sobrecarga. OBJETIVO: Descrever o perfil sociodemográfico e assistencial dos cuidadores de idosos e analisar os fatores associados à tensão excessiva associada ao cuidado. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, parte do Estudo Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento (SABE), realizado no município de São Paulo, no ano de 2010, com 362 cuidadores. A tensão excessiva associada ao cuidado foi avaliada pela escala de Zarit, e considerou-se ausência de sobrecarga pontuação inferior a 24 pontos e presença de sobrecarga os escores ≥ 24 pontos. Utilizou-se regressão de logística hierárquica para analisar os fatores associados à tensão dos cuidadores familiares. RESULTADOS: A maioria dos cuidadores era familiar (91,5%), do sexo feminino (75,4%), com média de idade de 53,9 anos (desvio padrão - DP ± 15,5), casado (65,3%), residente no mesmo domicílio do idoso (68,2%). Um terço deles apresentou sobrecarga de cuidado, que foi associado à idade (odds ratio - OR = 1,04; p = 0,001), ao relato de disfunção familiar (OR = 5,60; p = 0,000) e à prestação de cuidado contínuo (OR = 2,78; p = 0,030). CONCLUSÃO: Os dados revelam a necessidade de políticas públicas que incluam as necessidades e o suporte aos cuidadores, em especial, os familiares, a fim de melhorar sua qualidade de vida e a sua prestação de cuidados às pessoas idosas.

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.

Frailty in older adults in the city of São Paulo: Prevalence and associated factors. / Fragilidade em idosos no município de São Paulo: prevalência e fatores associados.

INTRODUCTION: Frailty is a preventable and reversible syndrome characterized by a cumulative decline of physiological systems, causing greater vulnerability to adverse conditions. OBJECTIVE: To describe the prevalence of frailty among older adults and analyze its associated factors and progression. METHOD: This is a longitudinal study that used the Health, Well-being, and Aging Study (Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento - SABE) database of 2006 and 2010. Five components identified the frailty syndrome: weight loss; fatigue; decreased strength, low physical activity, and reduced walking speed. Older adults were classified as "pre-frail" (1-2 components) and "frail" (3 or more). We used a hierarchical multiple multinomial regression to analyze associated factors. RESULTS: Out of the total number of older adults (n = 1,399), 8.5% were frail, and the associated factors were age, functional impairment, cognitive decline, hospitalization, and multimorbidity. In four years, 3.3% of non-frail and 14.7% of pre-frail older adults became frail. CONCLUSION: Identifying the prevalence of frailty and its associated factors can help to implement adequate interventions early to improve the quality of life of older adults.

INTRODUÇÃO: Fragilidade é uma síndrome evitável e reversível caracterizada pelo declínio cumulativo dos sistemas fisiológicos, causando maior vulnerabilidade às condições adversas. OBJETIVOS: Descrever a prevalência de fragilidade entre os idosos, analisar os fatores associados e a evolução da síndrome. MÉTODO: Estudo longitudinal que utilizou a base de dados do Estudo Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento (SABE), nos anos de 2006 e 2010. A síndrome de fragilidade foi identificada por cinco componentes: perda de peso; fadiga; redução de força, de atividade física e de velocidade de caminhada. Os idosos foram classificados como "pré-frágeis" (1-2 componentes) e "frágeis" (3 ou +). Utilizou-se regressão multinomial múltipla hierárquica para análise dos fatores associados. RESULTADOS: Do total de idosos (n = 1.399), 8,5% eram frágeis tendo como fatores associados idade, comprometimento funcional, declínio cognitivo, hospitalização e multimorbidade. Em quatro anos, tornaram-se frágeis 3,3% dos idosos não frágeis e 14,7% dos pré-frágeis. CONCLUSÃO: A identificação da prevalência e dos fatores associados à fragilidade pode ajudar a implementar intervenções adequadas precocemente, de modo a garantir melhorias na qualidade de vida dos idosos.

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.

Association of dyslipidemia, hypertension and overweight/obesity with work shift and duration of employment among police officers in a small town in Northeastern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome and chronic diseases have impact on the job performance of police officers. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association of overweight/obesity and cardiovascular risk factors with work shift and duration of employment among police officers. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 102 police officers in Cajazeiras, Paraíba, Brazil, in which we analyzed sociodemographic data, occupational characteristics, body mass index (BMI), lipid profile, personal history of disease and lifestyle. Statistical analysis included the chi-square and Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: Overweight/obesity was found among most participants (83.3%). Hypertriglyceridemia (49.1%), low HDL-C (56.9%) and high LDL-C (46.1%) levels were associated with abnormal BMI (p<0.05). Hypertension was the main disease reported by overweight/obese participants (28.2%) (p=0.01). Job position, lifestyle and work shift were not associated with any of the analyzed variables, however, abnormal BMI, dyslipidemia, and hypertension were frequent among the participants with 6-10 or more than 10 years in the job (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Part of the participants with at least 6 years in the job exhibited overweight/obesity in association with dyslipidemia and hypertension. We recommend prevention and therapeutic strategies to protect officers from chronic diseases or attenuate their long-term complications. Additional prospective studies are needed to confirm the associations we found, mainly between duration of employment and occupational diseases.

INTRODUÇÃO: A síndrome metabólica e diversas doenças crônicas vêm impactando o trabalho de policiais militares. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a relacão entre sobrepeso/obesidade e fatores de risco cardiovascular associados ao turno e ao tempo de serviço entre policiais. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com 102 policiais militares da cidade de Cajazeiras, Paraíba. Foram analisadas características sociodemográficas, ocupacionais, índice de massa corporal (IMC), perfil lipídico, comorbidades e estilo de vida. Os testes χ2 e exato de Fisher foram utilizados na análise dos grupos. RESULTADOS: Sobrepeso/obesidade foi encontrado em 83,3% dos policiais. Hipertrigliceridemia (49,1%), baixas concentrações de HDL-C (56,9%) e LDL-C sérico elevado (46,1%) apresentaram associação com alterações do IMC (p<0,05). Hipertensão arterial foi a principal doença relatada pelos participantes com sobrepeso/obesidade (28,2%) (p=0,01). Função desempenhada, estilo de vida e turno de trabalho não apresentaram associação com as variáveis analisadas. No entanto, alterações no IMC, dislipidemia e hipertensão foram frequentes entre os participantes com 6 a 10 ou mais de 10 anos de serviço (p<0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Parte dos participantes com um mínimo de 6 anos de tempo de serviço apresentou sobrepeso/obesidade associado a dislipidemia e hipertensão arterial. Recomenda-se a implementação de estratégias preventivas e terapêuticas para proteger os agentes policiais de doenças crônicas ou atenuar suas complicações no longo prazo. Estudos prospectivos são necessários para confirmar as associações identificadas no presente estudo, principalmente entre o tempo de serviço e doenças ocupacionais.