Life-space mobility in older adults with Alzheimer's-type dementia.

BACKGROUND: Mobility is an important component of functioning. Motor and cognitive impairment in older people with Alzheimer's disease can exert a negative impact on life-space mobility. OBJECTIVE: To compare life-space mobility in older adults with mild and moderate Alzheimer-type dementia and those without dementia and determine associations with health factors. METHODS: Life-space mobility was assessed using the Life Space Assessment (LSA) in 33 older adults with Alzheimer-type dementia (AD group) and 24 older adults without dementia (WD group). The World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0), Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination (ACE-R), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Modified Baecke Questionnaire for Older Adults (MBQOA), and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) were completed. Statistical analysis was performed with unpaired t-test or Mann-Whitney tests for comparisons between groups and Spearman's correlation test. RESULTS: The AD group had a lower total LSA score compared to the WD group (44 vs 65, mean difference = -20.7 [95% CI: -28.6, -12.9]), 21% of the AD group were restricted to their homes when no assistance was available. In both groups, moderate correlations were found between LSA and both functioning and physical activity level. Symptoms of depression presented moderate correlation only in the WD group. CONCLUSIONS: Older adults with AD have lower life-space mobility and require assistance to achieve higher levels of mobility. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: LSA can help assess life-space mobility. Encouraging and enabling assistance is fundamental to a greater life-space for older adults with dementia.

Can timed up and go subtasks predict functional decline in older adults with cognitive impairment?

Even in the early stages of cognitive impairment, older people can present important motor alterations. However, there are no studies that have investigated Timed Up and Go (TUG) and its subtasks in predicting impairment of functional capacity over time in this population. Objectives: The aim of this study was to verify if the TUG test and its subtasks can predict functional decline over 32 months in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods: This is a prospective 32-month follow-up study, including at baseline 78 older adults (MCI: n=40; AD: n=38). The TUG and its subtasks (e.g., sit-to-stand, walking forward, turn, walking back, and turn-to-sit) were performed at baseline using the Qualisys Motion system. Functional capacity was assessed at baseline and after 32 months. Results: After follow-up, the sample had 45 older adults (MCI: n=25; AD: n=20). Of these, 28 declined functional capacity (MCI: n=13; AD: n=15). No TUG variable significantly predicted (p>0.05) functional decline in both groups, by univariate logistic regression analysis with the covariate gender. Conclusions: Although older adults with MCI and mild AD declined functional capacity, the TUG test and its subtasks could not predict this decline over 32 months.

Mesmo nos estágios iniciais do comprometimento cognitivo, os idosos podem apresentar alterações motoras importantes. No entanto, não há estudos que tenham investigado o timed up and go (TUG) e suas subtarefas como preditores do comprometimento da capacidade funcional ao longo do tempo nessa população. Objetivos: O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se o teste timed up and go (TUG) e suas subtarefas podem predizer o declínio funcional ao longo de 32 meses em idosos com comprometimento cognitivo leve (CCL) e doença de Alzheimer leve (DA). Métodos: Este é um estudo prospectivo de acompanhamento de 32 meses, que incluiu no início do estudo 78 idosos (CCL: n=40; DA: n=38). O TUG e suas subtarefas (sentar para levantar, caminhar para frente, virar, caminhar para trás e girar para sentar) foram realizados na linha de base pelo sistema Qualisys Motion. A capacidade funcional foi avaliada no início e após 32 meses. Resultados: Depois do seguimento, a amostra foi composta de 45 idosos (CCL: n=25; DA: n=20). Destes, 28 tiveram a capacidade funcional diminuída (CCL: n=13; DA: n=15). Nenhuma variável do TUG previu declínio funcional significativamente estatístico (p>0,05) em nenhum dos grupos, por meio da análise de regressão logística univariada com a covariável sexo. Conclusões: Embora os idosos com CCL e DA leve tenham tido sua capacidade funcional diminuída, o teste TUG e suas subtarefas não puderam prever esse declínio em 32 meses.

Can timed up and go subtasks predict functional decline in older adults with cognitive impairment? / As subtarefas do timed up and go podem predizer o declínio funcional em idosos com comprometimento cognitivo?

ABSTRACT. Even in the early stages of cognitive impairment, older people can present important motor alterations. However, there are no studies that have investigated Timed Up and Go (TUG) and its subtasks in predicting impairment of functional capacity over time in this population. Objectives: The aim of this study was to verify if the TUG test and its subtasks can predict functional decline over 32 months in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods: This is a prospective 32-month follow-up study, including at baseline 78 older adults (MCI: n=40; AD: n=38). The TUG and its subtasks (e.g., sit-to-stand, walking forward, turn, walking back, and turn-to-sit) were performed at baseline using the Qualisys Motion system. Functional capacity was assessed at baseline and after 32 months. Results: After follow-up, the sample had 45 older adults (MCI: n=25; AD: n=20). Of these, 28 declined functional capacity (MCI: n=13; AD: n=15). No TUG variable significantly predicted (p>0.05) functional decline in both groups, by univariate logistic regression analysis with the covariate gender. Conclusions: Although older adults with MCI and mild AD declined functional capacity, the TUG test and its subtasks could not predict this decline over 32 months.

RESUMO Mesmo nos estágios iniciais do comprometimento cognitivo, os idosos podem apresentar alterações motoras importantes. No entanto, não há estudos que tenham investigado o timed up and go (TUG) e suas subtarefas como preditores do comprometimento da capacidade funcional ao longo do tempo nessa população. Objetivos: O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se o teste timed up and go (TUG) e suas subtarefas podem predizer o declínio funcional ao longo de 32 meses em idosos com comprometimento cognitivo leve (CCL) e doença de Alzheimer leve (DA). Métodos: Este é um estudo prospectivo de acompanhamento de 32 meses, que incluiu no início do estudo 78 idosos (CCL: n=40; DA: n=38). O TUG e suas subtarefas (sentar para levantar, caminhar para frente, virar, caminhar para trás e girar para sentar) foram realizados na linha de base pelo sistema Qualisys Motion. A capacidade funcional foi avaliada no início e após 32 meses. Resultados: Depois do seguimento, a amostra foi composta de 45 idosos (CCL: n=25; DA: n=20). Destes, 28 tiveram a capacidade funcional diminuída (CCL: n=13; DA: n=15). Nenhuma variável do TUG previu declínio funcional significativamente estatístico (p>0,05) em nenhum dos grupos, por meio da análise de regressão logística univariada com a covariável sexo. Conclusões: Embora os idosos com CCL e DA leve tenham tido sua capacidade funcional diminuída, o teste TUG e suas subtarefas não puderam prever esse declínio em 32 meses.

Changes in executive function and gait in people with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer disease.

Changes in executive function and motor aspects can compromise the prognosis of older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and favor the evolution to dementia. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in executive function and gait and to determine the association between changes in these variables. METHODS: A 32-month longitudinal study was conducted with 40 volunteers: 19 with preserved cognition (PrC), 15 with MCI and 6 with Alzheimer disease (AD). Executive function and gait speed were assessed using the Frontal Assessment Battery, the Clock-Drawing test and the 10-meter walk test. For data analysis, the Pearson product-moment correlation, two-way repeated-measures ANOVA, and chi-square were conducted. RESULTS: After 32 months, an improvement in the executive function was found in all groups (p=0.003). At baseline, gait speed was slower in individuals with MCI and AD compared to those with PrC (p=0.044), that was maintained after the follow-up (p=0.001). There was significant increase in number of steps in all groups (p=0.001). No significant association was found between changes in gait speed and executive function. CONCLUSIONS: It should be taken into account that gait deteriorates prior to executive function to plan interventions and health strategies for this population.

Alterações na função executiva e nos aspectos motores podem comprometer o prognóstico de idosos com comprometimento cognitivo leve (CCL) e favorecer a evolução para demência. OBJETIVOS: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar alterações na função executiva e na marcha e determinar a associação entre alterações nessas variáveis. MÉTODO: Foi realizado um estudo longitudinal de 32 meses com 40 voluntários: 19 com cognição preservada (PrC), 15 com CCL e 6 com doença de Alzheimer (DA). A função executiva e a velocidade da marcha foram avaliadas por meio de bateria de avaliação frontal, do teste de desenho do relógio e do teste de caminhada de 10 metros. Para a análise de dados, o coeficiente de correlação produto-momento de Pearson, ANOVA de medidas repetidas bidirecional e o qui-quadrado foram realizados. RESULTADOS: Após 32 meses, houve melhora na função executiva em todos os grupos (p=0,003). No início do estudo, a velocidade da marcha foi mais lenta nos indivíduos com CCL e DA em comparação com os PrC (p=0,044), que foi mantida após o acompanhamento (p=0,001). Houve aumento significativo no número de etapas em todos os grupos (p=0,001). Não foi encontrada associação significativa entre alterações na velocidade da marcha e função executiva. CONCLUSÕES: Deve-se levar em consideração que a marcha se deteriora antes da função executiva para planejar intervenções e estratégias de saúde para essa população.

Changes in executive function and gait in people with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer disease / Alterações na função executiva e na marcha em pessoas com comprometimento cognitivo leve e doença de alzheimer

ABSTRACT. Changes in executive function and motor aspects can compromise the prognosis of older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and favor the evolution to dementia. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in executive function and gait and to determine the association between changes in these variables. Methods: A 32-month longitudinal study was conducted with 40 volunteers: 19 with preserved cognition (PrC), 15 with MCI and 6 with Alzheimer disease (AD). Executive function and gait speed were assessed using the Frontal Assessment Battery, the Clock-Drawing test and the 10-meter walk test. For data analysis, the Pearson product-moment correlation, two-way repeated-measures ANOVA, and chi-square were conducted. Results: After 32 months, an improvement in the executive function was found in all groups (p=0.003). At baseline, gait speed was slower in individuals with MCI and AD compared to those with PrC (p=0.044), that was maintained after the follow-up (p=0.001). There was significant increase in number of steps in all groups (p=0.001). No significant association was found between changes in gait speed and executive function. Conclusions: It should be taken into account that gait deteriorates prior to executive function to plan interventions and health strategies for this population.

RESUMO. Alterações na função executiva e nos aspectos motores podem comprometer o prognóstico de idosos com comprometimento cognitivo leve (CCL) e favorecer a evolução para demência. Objetivos: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar alterações na função executiva e na marcha e determinar a associação entre alterações nessas variáveis. Método: Foi realizado um estudo longitudinal de 32 meses com 40 voluntários: 19 com cognição preservada (PrC), 15 com CCL e 6 com doença de Alzheimer (DA). A função executiva e a velocidade da marcha foram avaliadas por meio de bateria de avaliação frontal, do teste de desenho do relógio e do teste de caminhada de 10 metros. Para a análise de dados, o coeficiente de correlação produto-momento de Pearson, ANOVA de medidas repetidas bidirecional e o qui-quadrado foram realizados. Resultados: Após 32 meses, houve melhora na função executiva em todos os grupos (p=0,003). No início do estudo, a velocidade da marcha foi mais lenta nos indivíduos com CCL e DA em comparação com os PrC (p=0,044), que foi mantida após o acompanhamento (p=0,001). Houve aumento significativo no número de etapas em todos os grupos (p=0,001). Não foi encontrada associação significativa entre alterações na velocidade da marcha e função executiva. Conclusões: Deve-se levar em consideração que a marcha se deteriora antes da função executiva para planejar intervenções e estratégias de saúde para essa população.

Progression of Gait Changes in Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The identification of altered gait and its progression over time is important to gaining a better understanding of the clinical aspects of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in older adults. The aim of the present systematic review was to determine changes in gait variables over time among older adults with MCI. METHODS: The PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct databases were searched for relevant articles using the following keywords and Medical Subject Headings: Aged AND "Mild cognitive impairment" AND (gait OR locomotion). A hand search was also performed of the reference lists of the selected articles in an attempt to find additional records. The following were the inclusion criteria: longitudinal studies and clinical trials involving a control group without intervention; samples of individuals 65 years or older; and characterization of gait using a single or dual task. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The initial search led to the retrieval of 6979 studies, 9 of which met the inclusion criteria. The duration of follow-up among the studies ranged from 6 months to 2 years. Most trials investigated gait speed. Other gait variables were step length, time required to walk a given distance, and mean weekly gait speed. Altered gait progressed in older adults with MCI. The main alterations were gait speed and variability in daily number of steps in follow-up periods lasting more than 1 year. No significant changes in gait variables were found in shorter follow-up periods (up to 6 months). CONCLUSIONS: The progression of gait changes in older adults with MCI has been underinvestigated. MCI leads to reduced gait speed in longer follow-up periods. Such information can contribute to the determination of motor interventions for older adults with MCI, especially in the early stages.

Complexity of Knee Extensor Torque: Effect of Aging and Contraction Intensity.

ABSTRACT: Fiogbé, E, Vassimon-Barroso, V, Catai, AM, de Melo, RC, Quitério, RJ, Porta, A, and Takahashi, ACdM. Complexity of knee extensor torque: effect of aging and contraction intensity. J Strength Cond Res 35(4): 1050-1057, 2021-Assessing the knee extensors' torque complexity in older adults is relevant because these muscles are among the most involved in functional daily activities. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aging and isometric contraction intensity on knee extensor torque complexity. Eight young (24 ± 2.8 years) and 13 old adults (63 ± 2.8 years) performed 3 maximal (maximum voluntary contraction [MVC], duration = 10 seconds) and submaximal isometric contractions (SICs, targeted at 15, 30, and 40% of MVC, respectively) of knee extensors. Torque signals were sampled continuously, and the metrics of variability and complexity were calculated basing on the SIC torque data. The coefficient of variation (CV) was used to quantify the torque variability. The torque complexity was determined by calculating the corrected approximate entropy (CApEn) and sample entropy (SampEn) and its normalized versions (NCApEn and NSampEn). Young subjects produced greater isometric torque than older adults, and the CV was similar between both groups except at the highest force level (40% MVC) where young subjects' value was higher. The major novel finding of this investigation was that although the knee extensor torque complexity is reduced in older adults, its relationship with contraction intensity is similar to young subjects. This means that despite the age-related decrease of the interactions between the components of the neuromuscular system, the organization of force control remains preserved in older adults, at least up to just below the force midrange.

Complexity of knee extensor torque in patients with frailty syndrome: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Frailty syndrome is characterized by a marked reduction in physiological reserves and a clinical state of vulnerability to stress. Torque complexity analysis could reveal changes in the musculoskeletal systems that are the result of having the syndrome. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the complexity of submaximal isometric knee extensor torque in frail, pre-frail, and non-frail older adults. A secondary aim was to analyze the torque complexity behavior in different force levels in each group. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted. Forty-two older adults were divided into three groups: non-frail (n=15), pre-frail (n=15), and frail (n=12). The data collected included body composition, five times sit-to-stand test, walking speed, and isometric knee extensor torque at 15, 30, and 40% of maximal voluntary contraction. The knee extensor torque variability was evaluated by coefficient of variation, and the torque complexity was evaluated by approximate entropy and sample entropy. RESULTS: The frail group presented a reduction in body mass and peak torque value compared to the non-frail group. Also, the frail group showed worse physical performance (on the five times sit-to-stand test and walking speed) compared to the pre-frail and non-frail groups. In addition, the frail older adults showed reduced torque complexity compared to the non-frail group. Finally, the association between torque complexity and force levels remained similar in all groups. CONCLUSION: Torque complexity is reduced in the presence of frailty syndrome.

Risk Factors for Falls in Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment and Mild Alzheimer Disease.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Understanding fall risk factors in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer disease (AD) can help to establish specific plans for prevention of falls. The purpose of this study was to identify fall risk factors in older adults with MCI and mild AD. METHODS: A prospective study was conducted with community-dwelling older adults (40 MCI; 38 mild AD). The assessments consisted of sociodemographic and health variables, caloric expenditure, functional status, functional mobility (10-m walk test, dual-task test, and transition Timed Up and Go phases), cognitive domains, and depressive symptoms. Falls were recorded for 6 months by a falls calendar and monthly telephone calls. RESULTS: Falls were reported in 52.6% and 51.4% of people with MCI and mild AD, respectively. Among people with MCI, lower functional status, higher time spent on walk and dual task tests, and higher depressive symptom scores were associated with falls. Higher time spent on the dual-task test was independently associated with falls. Among people with mild AD, falls were associated with lower time spent on the walk test and turn-to-sit phase, and a higher visuospatial domain score. Lower time spent on the turn-to-sit phase was identified as an independent predictor of falls. CONCLUSIONS: Careful attention should be given to dual-task and turn-to-sit activities when detecting risk of falls among older people with MCI and mild AD.

Performance of Different Timed Up and Go Subtasks in Frailty Syndrome.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Gait speed, mobility, and postural transitions should be taken into account in older adults with frailty syndrome and can be assessed by the Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test. However, it is unclear which TUG subtasks have greater influence in identifying frail people and whether prefrail individuals present with any reduced subtask performance. The objective of this study was to investigate the differences in performance of TUG subtasks between frail, prefrail, and nonfrail older adults. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed with community-dwelling older adults, including 43 nonfrail, 30 prefrail, and 7 frail individuals. The TUG subtasks (sit-to-stand, walking forward, turning, walking back, and turn-to-sit) were assessed using a Qualisys motion system. Data were captured by Qualisys Track Manager software and processed by Visual 3D software. The Matlab program was used to detect, separate, and analyze the TUG subtasks. Statistical significance was set at α= .05 and SigmaPlot software (11.0) was used. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The total time to complete the TUG was significantly longer among frail participants than among those who were prefrail and nonfrail. Statistically significant differences in temporal parameters in the turning, walking forward, and walking back subtasks between nonfrail/prefrail and frail older people were found. In addition, the transition TUG subtasks (average and peak velocities of the trunk) distinguished the frail group from the other groups, demonstrating altered quality of movement. CONCLUSIONS: The findings support the value of analyzing the TUG subtasks to improve understanding of mobility deficits in frailty syndrome.

Dual-task as a predictor of falls in older people with mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer's disease: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: A dual-task tool with a challenging and daily secondary task, which involves executive functions, could facilitate the screening for risk of falls in older people with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer's disease. OBJECTIVE: To verify if a motor-cognitive dual-task test could predict falls in older people with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer's disease, and to establish cutoff scores for the tool for both groups. METHODS: A prospective study was conducted with community-dwelling older adults, including 40 with mild cognitive impairment and 38 with mild Alzheimer's disease. The dual-task test consisted of the Timed up and Go Test associated with a motor-cognitive task using a phone to call. Falls were recorded during six months by calendar and monthly telephone calls and the participants were categorized as fallers or non-fallers. RESULTS: In the Mild cognitive impairment Group, fallers presented higher values in time (35.2s), number of steps (33.7 steps) and motor task cost (116%) on dual-task compared to non-fallers. Time, number of steps and motor task cost were significantly associated with falls in people with mild cognitive impairment. Multivariate analysis identified higher number of steps spent on the test to be independently associated with falls. A time greater than 23.88s (sensitivity=80%; specificity=61%) and a number of steps over 29.50 (sensitivity=65%; specificity=83%) indicated prediction of risk of falls in the Mild cognitive impairment Group. Among people with Alzheimer's disease, no differences in dual-task between fallers and non-fallers were found and no variable of the tool was able to predict falls. CONCLUSION: The dual-task predicts falls only in older people with mild cognitive impairment.

Impact of a dual task intervention on physical performance of older adults who practice physical exercise / Impacto de uma intervenção de dupla tarefa no desempenho físico de idosos praticantes de exercício físico

Abstract Physical exercises, especially multicomponent training, can improve cognitive functions and physical impairments in older adults. The aim this study was to purpose of this two-arm clinical trial was to investigate the effects of the addition of a dual task to multicomponent training on physical performances of community-dwelling older adults who practice physical exercise. Seventy-one older adults were divided into a Control Group (CG) and Intervention Group (IG). Participants of the CG performed isolated multicomponent training, participants of the IG performed multicomponent training associated with cognitive tasks and both protocols lasted 12 weeks. The assessment consisted of flexibility, handgrip strength, lower limb strength, balance, functional mobility and aerobic capacity. The CG presented greater flexibility than the IG, regardless of time. There was a worse performance in lower limb strength, regardless of group. The addition of a dual task to the multicomponent training was not able to improve physical performances of older adults. Further studies are needed to confirm whether the dual task training contributes to both cognitive and physical benefits in older adults who practice physical exercise.

Resumo Exercícios físicos, especialmente o treinamento multicomponente, podem melhorar funções cognitivas e distúrbios motores em idosos. Objetivou-se investigar os efeitos da adição da dupla tarefa sobre o treinamento multicomponente nas performances motoras de idosos da comunidade praticantes de exercício físico. Setenta e um idosos foram divididos em Grupo Controle (GC) e Grupo Intervenção (GI). Participantes do GC realizaram treinamento multicomponente isolado e participantes do GI realizaram treinamento multicomponente associado a tarefas cognitivas, ambos protocolos com duração de 12 semanas. A avaliação consistiu de flexibilidade, força de preensão palmar, força de membros inferiores, equilíbrio, mobilidade funcional e capacidade aeróbica. O GC apresentou maior flexibilidade do que o GI, independente do tempo. Houve uma piora na performance de força de membros inferiores, independente do grupo. A adição da dupla tarefa sobre o treinamento multicomponente não foi capaz de melhorar performances físicas de idosos. Estudos futuros são necessários para confirmar se o treinamento de dupla tarefa traz benefícios cognitivos e também físicos em idosos praticantes de exercício físico.

Causes of drop out from a physical exercise supervised program specific to older adults / Motivos de abandono de um programa de exercício físico específico para idosos / Motivos de abandono de un programa de ejercicio físico supervisado para las personas mayores

Abstract Introduction: Physical exercise when performed regularly brings several health benefits, especially for older adults. However, there are barriers that induce these individuals to withdraw from exercise. Objective: This study investigated the causes of drop out from a supervised physical exercise program specific to older adults. Methods: A semi-structured questionnaire was applied by telephone contact, containing questions about their reasons for leaving the program. Demographic data were analyzed by relative and absolute frequencies, and the Chi-square test was used to verify the associations between the variables collected. A significance level of 5% was considered. Results: Fifty-nine older adults were interviewed and the main reasons for drop out were lack of time (33.9%), emergence or worsening of disease (28.8%), and the need to care for family members with health problems (18.7%). A high percentage of older adults (62.7%) showed a worsening in health status after leaving the program, with changes in muscle strength (80.0%), balance (76.7%), and motor coordination (40.0%). Conclusion: A professional intervention is suggested to enable organizational control of factors related to lack of time, as well as a logistical monitoring service for older adults and/or family members who fall ill, promoting the return to practice as soon as possible.

Resumo Introdução: O exercício físico praticado regularmente traz inúmeros benefícios à saúde, especialmente aos idosos. Porém, algumas barreiras fazem com que uma parcela destes idosos abandone esta prática. Objetivo: Este estudo investigou os motivos do abandono de um programa de exercício físico supervisionado e específico para a população idosa. Métodos: Foi aplicado um questionário semiestruturado, via contato telefônico, com questões a respeito dos motivos de abandono ao programa. O contato foi realizado por um pesquisador sem vínculo com os idosos. Os dados demográficos foram analisados por frequências relativas e absolutas, usou-se o teste Qui-quadrado para verificar as associações entre as variáveis coletadas. Considerou-se nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Foram entrevistados 59 idosos e os principais motivos de abandono relatados pelos idosos foram: falta de tempo (33,9%), surgimento ou agravo de doenças (28,8%) e necessidade de cuidar de familiares com problemas de saúde (18,7%). Grande parcela dos idosos (62,7%) apontou piora do estado de saúde após o abandono do programa, com alteração da força muscular (80,0%), equilíbrio (76,7%) e coordenação motora (40,0%). Conclusão: Sugere-se uma intervenção profissional para viabilizar o controle de fatores relacionados à falta de tempo, assim como uma logística de acompanhamento dos idosos e/ou familiares que adoecem, promovendo o retorno à prática da forma mais breve possível.

Resumen Introducción: El ejercicio físico practicado en forma regular trae innumerables beneficios para la salud, especialmente para los ancianos. No obstante, algunas barreras hacen que parte de los ancianos abandonen esta práctica. Objetivo: Este estudio investigó los motivos de abandono de un programa de ejercicio físico específico para la población envejecida. Métodos: Fue aplicado un cuestionario semiestructurado, vía contacto telefónico, con preguntas respecto de los motivos por el cual abandonaron el programa. Los datos demográficos fueron analizados por frecuencias relativas y absolutas, y la prueba Chi-cuadrado para verificar las asociaciones entre las variables recolectadas. Se consideró un nivel de significancia del 5%. Resultados: Fueron entrevistados 59 ancianos, siendo los principales hallazgos: falta de tiempo (33,9%), surgimiento o agudización de enfermedades (28,8%) y la necesidad de cuidar algún familiar con problemas de salud (18,7%). La mayor parte de los ancianos (62,7%) apuntó empeoramiento del estado de salud después del abandono del programa, con alteración de la fuerza muscular (80,0%), equilibrio (76,7%) y coordinación motora (40,0%). Conclusión: Se sugiere una intervención profesional para viabilizar el control de los factores relacionados a la falta de tiempo, así como una logística de acompañamiento de los ancianos y/o familiares que lo necesitan, promoviendo el retorno a la práctica de la forma más rápida posible.

Respiração lenta e profunda aumenta a modulação vagal em gestantes / Deep and slow breathing increases vagal modulation in pregnant women

OBJETIVOS: Comparar a resposta da modulação autonômica da frequência cardíaca de gestantes e mulheres não gestantes, antes e após a manobra de acentuação da arritmia sinusal respiratória. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo transversal com amostra de 24 mulheres, divididas em dois grupos: grupo gestantes (independente da idade gestacional) e grupo controle (não gestantes). A avaliação consistiu em registro dos intervalos RR por um cardio frequencímetro, para análise de índices lineares e não lineares da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca. As avaliações foram feitas no repouso em decúbito lateral esquerdo, antes e após a manobra de acentuação da arritmia sinusal respiratória, que consiste em respirações lentas de cinco a seis ciclos por minuto. A razão expiração/inspiração e a diferença entre a inspiração e a expiração foram avaliadas durante a manobra. Foram comparados os resultados obtidos entre os dois grupos (gestantes e não gestantes), assim como os obtidos em cada grupo, antes e após a manobra. Para a análise estatística o nível de significância considerado foi p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Os índices lineares mostraram valores iniciais da modulação simpática (banda de baixa frequência) aumentados nas gestantes quando comparadas às mulheres não gestantes (gestantes: 68,9±28,1; controles: 49,3±11,7; p=0,002). Após a manobra respiratória, o índice obtido pela raiz quadrada da média do quadrado das diferenças entre os intervalos RR normais adjacentes aumentou no grupo gestantes (pré- manobra: 34,5±5,7; pós-manobra: 38,9±5,8; p=0,027), indicando aumento da atuação parassimpática para essa população após a aplicação da manobra. Além disso, houve aumento dos valores de complexidade, sugeridos pela entropia de Shanon após a manobra, para ambos os grupos, sendo o aumento maior nas gestantes. Em relação aos índices avaliados durante a manobra, ambos os grupos apresentaram valores da razão expiração/inspiração maiores que 1, o que sugere integridade do sistema nervoso autônomo. CONCLUSÕES: Houve melhora da regulação do sistema nervoso autônomo ao final da manobra respiratória para as gestantes, sugerindo que o padrão de respiração lenta e profunda possa aumentar a modulação vagal e conferir efeito cardioprotetor, além de ocasionar relaxamento e sensação de bem-estar.

AIMS: To compare the responses of the heart rate autonomic modulation in pregnant and non-pregnant women before and after the respiratory sinus arrhythmia maneuver. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 24 women, divided into two groups: pregnant group (independent of gestational age) and control group (non-pregnant). The evaluation consisted of recording the RR intervals using a cardiofrequencimeter, for analysis of linear and nonlinear indices of heart rate variability. The evaluations were made at rest in left lateral decubitus, before and after the maneuver of accentuation of respiratory sinus arrhythmia, consisting of slow breaths five to six cycles per minute. The expiration/inspiration ratio and the difference between inspiration and expiration were evaluated during the maneuver. Results were compared between the two groups (pregnant and non-pregnant), as well as those obtained in each group before and after the maneuver. For the statistical analysis the level of significance considered was p<0.05. RESULTS: Linear indices showed increased baseline sympathetic modulation (low frequency band) in pregnant women when compared to non-pregnant women (pregnant women: 68.9±28.1; non pregnant women: 49.3±11.7; p=0,002). After the respiratory maneuver, the root mean square of successive differences in the RR intervals index increased in the pregnant group (pre-maneuver: 34.5±5.7; post-maneuver: 38.9±5.8; p=0,002) indicating an increase in the parasympathetic system for this population after the maneuver. In addition, there was an increase in the complexity values after the maneuver, suggested by the Shanon entropy for both groups, being the increase higher in the pregnant women. Regarding the indices evaluated during the respiratory sinus arrhythmia maneuver, both groups presented expiration/inspiration ratio values greater than 1, which suggests integrity of the autonomic nervous system. CONCLUSIONS: There was an improvement in the regulation of the autonomic nervous system after the respiratory maneuver for pregnant women, suggesting that the slow and deep breathing pattern may increase vagal modulation and confer a cardioprotective effect, besides causing relaxation and a sense of well-being.

Linear and nonlinear analysis of postural control in frailty syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Adaptive postural control can be impaired in the presence of frailty syndrome, given that this condition causes homeostatic dysregulation in physiological systems. OBJECTIVES: To compare the center of pressure (CoP) displacements of non-frail, pre-frail, and frail elderly subjects in the standing position before and after postural transition of sitting and rising from a chair, using linear and nonlinear methods. METHODS: Forty-two elderly subjects were divided into 3 groups: non-frail (n=15), pre-frail (n=15), and frail (n=12). The CoP displacements in the anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) direction in the orthostatic position, 30s before and after sitting down and rising from a chair, were evaluated by means of linear measurements (root mean square (RMS), amplitude, and total average speed) and nonlinear measurements (corrected approximate entropy - CApEn), sample entropy (SampEn), and complexity index (CI) and its normalized versions. RESULTS: After sitting and rising, there was an increase in RMS in the ML direction in all groups and in the AP direction in the non-frail and frail groups. The frail group showed no reduction in entropy values in either direction, and the pre-frail group showed no reduction in the ML direction. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study indicate that, in the presence of frailty syndrome, the organization of CoP displacements does not show less regularity after sitting and rising from a chair, reflecting a possible impairment of the integration of the systems involved in postural control.

Perfil de idosos admitidos em serviço de fisioterapia frente à sazonalidade / Profile of elderly admitted to a physical therapy center as a function of seasonality

OBJETIVOS: Analisar o perfil e a prevalência de doenças em idosos admitidos em duas estações do ano distintas, em um serviço público de fisioterapia de um município de médio porte localizado em zona de clima subtropical de altitude. MÉTODOS: Um estudo transversal analisou prontuários de pacientes encaminhados nos meses que compreenderam o verão e o inverno de 2011. Foram incluídos os prontuários de idosos (acima de 60 anos de idade) de ambos os sexos e excluídos os prontuários sem informações sobre o diagnóstico médico atual. Foram coletadas as variáveis idade e sexo e os diagnósticos atuais e pregressos. Para análise comparativa quanto ao perfil dos idosos admitidos nos dois períodos do ano, utilizou-se o teste Qui-quadrado. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados dados de 71 idosos. A média de idade foi de 69,2±8,1 anos e 48 (70,4%) eram do sexo feminino. Os diagnósticos mais frequentes no momento do encaminhamento foram de doenças traumato-ortopédicas (60,6%). O maior número de admissões ocorreu durante o inverno (62,0%). Os diagnósticos no momento do encaminhamento foram, respectivamente no verão e no inverno: traumatoortopédicos 17 (63,0%) e 26 (59,1%); reumatológicos 3 (11,1%) e 10 (22,7%); neurológicos 5 (18,5%) e 4 (9,1%); pós-operatório 2 (7,4%) e 4 (9,1%) (p=0,64). CONCLUSÕES: No inverno ocorreu maior demanda de encaminhamentos de idosos ao serviço de fisioterapia em comparação ao verão, com predomínio de mulheres em ambas as estações do ano. As causas de encaminhamento mais prevalentes foram relacionadas à traumatoortopedia, mas não houve diferença significativa na frequência dos diagnósticos conforme a estação do ano. O conhecimento sobre o perfil dos idosos admitidos em serviços de fisioterapia é importante para o planejamento de ações voltadas a essa faixa etária, com a realização de campanhas de informação, prevenção e promoção da saúde.

AIMS: To analyze the profile and the prevalence of diseases in elderly patients admitted to a physical therapy center in a medium-sized Brazilian city located in a subtropical zone in two different seasons of the year. METHODS: A cross-sectional study assessed the medical records of patients treated during summer and winter months in 2011. Medical records of male and female elderly patients (aged over 60 years) were included, and those without information on present medical diagnosis were excluded. Age and sex and both current and previous diagnostic records were analyzed. The chi-square test was used for the comparative analysis of the profile of the elderly patients for both seasons. RESULTS: Seventy-one medical records were analyzed. The mean age was 69.2±8.1 years and 48 (70.4%) patients were female. There was a higher prevalence of trauma-orthopedic diseases (60.6%). The greatest number of admissions was in winter (62.0%). At the time of referral, there were 17 cases (63.0%) of trauma-orthopaedic diseases in summer and 26 (59.1%) in winter; 3 cases (11.1%) of rheumatologic diseases in summer and 10 (22.7%) in winter; 5 cases (18.5%) of neurologic disorders in summer and 4 (9.1%) in winter; and 2 cases (7.4%) of postoperative complications in summer and 4 (9.1%) in winter (p=0.64). CONCLUSIONS: There was a greater demand for referrals of elderly patients to the physical therapy center in winter than in summer, with a predominance of female patients in both seasons. The most prevalent causes of referral were related to trauma-orthopaedic diseases, but there was no significant difference in the frequency of diagnoses according to season. Knowledge about the profile of the elderly admitted to physical therapy centers is important for targeting actions at this age group, conducting information, prevention, and health promotion campaigns.

Perception of barriers to physical exercise in women population over 60

Abstract Aims This study evaluated the possible barriers to the permanence of physical exercise (PE) of old women. Methods The study population comprised 61 old women participants for at least one year of a supervised PE program, who underwent anamnesis, and applied the Barriers Questionnaire to Physical Activity Practice in the Elderly (QBPAFI). Exploratory factorial analysis was used to evaluate QBPAFI data. The analysis of principal component was applied to the 22 questions through orthogonal rotation to analyze the correlation between the questions. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test was applied to evaluate the suitability of the sample size, and the Bartlett's test to assess whether the original matrix correlation is an identity matrix. Eigenvalues greater than 1 were considered for analysis. Results The motivational factor was the major determinant of perceived barriers (43.3%), followed by psychosocial (12.29%), facilities and appearance (8.75%), and exercise conditions (8.10%) factors. Conclusion Knowing the benefits of physical activity, and the main barriers that prevent the permanence of active old people to physical exercise programs, new strategies must be taken to increase the rate of adherence of this group.(AU)

Relação entre a variabilidade da frequência cardíaca e VO 2pico em mulheres ativas / Relationship between heart rate variability and VO 2peak in active women / Relación entre la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca y VO 2pico en mujeres activas

OBJETIVO: Ava+liar a associação entre os índices da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC) e a aptidão cardiorrespiratória. MÉTODOS: Sessenta e duas mulheres (idade 22,1 ± 3,3 anos) foram divididas em quatro grupos: treinamento aeróbio (AER, n = 15), treinamento de força (FOR, n = 13), treinamento combinado (aeróbio e força) (AER+FOR, n = 15) e controle (C, n = 19). O teste cardiopulmonar foi realizado para avaliar a aptidão cardiorrespiratória a partir do consumo de oxigênio pico (VO2pico). A FC foi coletada em repouso na postura supina. A VFC foi analisada a partir de métodos lineares e não lineares. RESULTADOS: Os grupos AER e AER+FOR apresentaram maiores índices da VFC (lineares e não lineares) indicadores da modulação vagal e menores índices da VFC indicadores da modulação simpática, em relação ao grupo C. Os grupos AER e AER+FOR apresentaram maior complexidade e menor regularidade dos intervalos RR e maior VO2pico em relação aos grupos FOR e C. O VO2pico apresentou correlação com os índices da VFC. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo mostrou que o treinamento físico aeróbio e combinado contribuíram significativamente para maior modulação autônoma da FC e aptidão cardiorrespiratória. A modulação autônoma da FC, avaliada a partir de métodos lineares e não lineares, está associada ao maior consumo de oxigênio. .

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the associations between heart rate variability (HRV) with cardiorespiratory fitness. METHODS: Sixty-two women (aged 22.1 ± 3.3) were divided into four groups: aerobic training (AER, n = 15), strength training (STR, n = 13), combined aerobic and strength training (AER+STR, n = 15) and controls (C, n = 19). Cardiopulmonary exercise testing was performed to measure cardiorespiratory fitness by assessing peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak). The HR was recorded at rest in the supine position. The HRV was analyzed by linear and nonlinear methods. RESULTS: The AER and AER+STR groups had higher vagal HRV (linear and nonlinear) indicators of vagal modulation and lower indices of HRV indicators of sympathetic modulation, compared to group C. The AER and AER+STR groups showed greater complexity and lower regularity of R-R intervals and higher peak compared to STR and C groups. The VO2peak was correlated with HRV indices. CONCLUSION: This study showed that aerobic and combined exercise significantly contributed to greater autonomic modulation of HR and cardiorespiratory fitness. The autonomic HR modulation, assessed by linear and nonlinear methods, was associated with a greater oxygen consumption. .

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la asociación entre los índices de variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca (VFC) y la aptitud cardiorrespiratoria. MÉTODOS: Sesenta y dos mujeres (edad 22,1 ± 3,3 años) fueron divididas en cuatro grupos: entrenamiento aeróbico (AER, n = 15), entrenamiento de fuerza (FOR, n = 13), entrenamiento combinado (aeróbico y fuerza) (AER+FOR, n = 15) y control (C, n = 19). El test cardiopulmonar fue realizado para evaluar la aptitud cardiorrespiratoria a partir del consumo de oxígeno pico (VO2pico). La FC fue colectada en reposo en la postura supina. La VFC fue analizada a partir de métodos lineales y no lineales. RESULTADOS: Los grupos AER y AER+FOR presentaron mayores índices de VFC (lineales y no lineales) indicadores de la modulación vagal y menores índices de VFC indicadores de la modulación simpática, en relación al grupo C. Los grupos AER y AER+FOR presentaron mayor complejidad y menor regularidad de los intervalos RR y mayor VO2pico en relación a los grupos FOR y C. O VO2pico presentó correlación con los índices de VFC. CONCLUSIÓN: Este estudio mostró que el entrenamiento físico aeróbico y combinado contribuyeron significativamente para mayor modulación autónoma de FC y aptitud cardiorrespiratoria. La modulación autónoma de FC, evaluada a partir de métodos lineales y no lineales, está asociada al mayor consumo de oxígeno. .