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.

Low grip strength and gait speed as markers of dependence regarding basic activities of daily living: the FIBRA study.

OBJECTIVE: Marincolo et al. showed that older adults without limitations in basic activities of daily living at baseline presented with an 11.7% concomitant presence of functional dependence, slow gait speed, and low muscle strength at follow-up. Slow gait speed remains a predictor of dependence in basic activities of daily living. To determine whether low muscle strength and low gait speed increase the risk of disability related to basic activities of daily living in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: A longitudinal study (9 years of follow-up) was conducted with 390 older adults who were independent in basic activities of daily living at baseline and answered the Katz Index at follow-up. Associations were determined using Pearson's χ2 test with a 5% significance level and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Increases in prevalence between baseline and follow-up were observed for low muscle strength (17.5%-38.2%), slow gait speed (26.0%-81.1%), and functional dependence (10.8%-26.6%). At follow-up, 11.7% of the participants had concomitant functional dependence, slow gait speed, and low muscle strength. Slow gait speed remained a predictor of dependence in basic activities of daily living (odds ratio=1.90; 95% confidence interval=1.06-3.41). CONCLUSION: Slow gait speed is a predictor of functional dependence, constituting an important variable for screening functional decline.

Do Primary Health Professionals in Brazil Have a Misperception about Food? The Role of Food Literacy as a Positive Predictor.

Risk perception is socially constructed; psychological elements control people's reactions to a hazard, and even health professionals may have difficulty determining what healthy food is. This work aimed to measure food literacy and food risk perceptions among primary healthcare professionals in a Brazilian city. In the first phase, 280 health professionals working in primary care in Rio Claro, Brazil, were studied. The Short Food Literacy Questionnaire (SFLQ-Br) and scales of risk and benefit perception of 50 foods were used. In the second phase, 20 professionals were interviewed to investigate the responses to different foods observed in the first phase. In this second phase, 16 users of the health system were also enrolled to understand their perceptions and how the nutrition messages conveyed by the health team reached them. Professionals scored an average of 34.5 on food literacy (for which there is a maximum score of 52). They showed difficulty with dietary guidelines and their interpretation. Food's risk and benefit perception were generally consistent with the recommendations of the Food Guide for the Brazilian Population. However, some processed foods or those with no proven health benefits were considered healthy by the study participants, indicating a biased perception (e.g., gelatin, processed turkey breast, cream crackers, and cereal bars). Less misperception was observed when food literacy was higher, which positively predicted risk perception. The reasons for identifying benefits of these foods ranged from the false impression that they are natural and nutritious foods to the comparative claim that they are better for health than similar foods. The results indicate the need to educate health professionals based on current references to avoid bias in population counseling.

Low grip strength and gait speed as markers of dependence regarding basic activities of daily living: the FIBRA study

ABSTRACT Objective To determine whether low muscle strength and low gait speed increase the risk of disability related to basic activities of daily living in community-dwelling older adults. Methods A longitudinal study (9 years of follow-up) was conducted with 390 older adults who were independent in basic activities of daily living at baseline and answered the Katz Index at follow-up. Associations were determined using Pearson's χ2 test with a 5% significance level and logistic regression analysis. Results Increases in prevalence between baseline and follow-up were observed for low muscle strength (17.5%-38.2%), slow gait speed (26.0%-81.1%), and functional dependence (10.8%-26.6%). At follow-up, 11.7% of the participants had concomitant functional dependence, slow gait speed, and low muscle strength. Slow gait speed remained a predictor of dependence in basic activities of daily living (odds ratio=1.90; 95% confidence interval=1.06-3.41). Conclusion Slow gait speed is a predictor of functional dependence, constituting an important variable for screening functional decline.

Association of Food Consumption According to the Degree of Processing and Sociodemographic Conditions in Older Adults.

Several factors can impact food consumption in older adults, including those of sociodemographic, physiological, and chronic non-communicable diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the association of food consumption according to its degree of processing with sociodemographic conditions in community-dwelling older adults. Food intake was evaluated from 24-h recall data. All food items were classified according to the degree of processing into four groups as follows: in natura or minimally processed, culinary ingredients, processed, and ultra-processed foods. Food groups were considered dependent variables in a quantile regression model, adjusting for sex, age, schooling, ethnicity, and number of residents. Women and individuals with higher levels of education had lower consumption of in natura or minimally processed foods and higher consumption of ultra-processed foods. The yellow or indigenous ethnicity presented the lowest consumption of processed foods; older people who lived with three or more individuals had the highest consumption of culinary ingredients, whereas the older people who lived with one to two people had the highest consumption of processed foods and the lowest consumption of ultra-processed. These groups may be the target of educational and public policies to improve diet quality and contribute to quality of life in older ages.

Cognitive Impairment Predicts Sarcopenia 9 Years Later among Older Adults.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the longitudinal association between cognitive impairment and sarcopenia in a sample of Brazilian community-dwelling older adults. DESIGN: Nine-year observational prospective study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: A total of 521 community-dwelling older adults from 2 Brazilian sites of the Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (FIBRA in Portuguese) study. METHODS: Sarcopenia was defined as low hand-grip strength and low muscle mass. Cognitive impairment was determined at baseline using the Mini-Mental State Examination, with education-adjusted cutoff scores. The logistic regression model was used to assess the association between cognitive impairment and incident sarcopenia after adjusting for gender, age, education, morbidities, physical activity, and body mass index. Inverse probability weighting was applied to correct for sample loss at follow-up. RESULTS: The mean age of the study population was 72.7 (±5.6) years, and 365 were women (70.1%). Being 80 years and older [odds ratio (OR), 4.62; 95% CI, 1.38-15.48; P = .013], being under- and overweight (OR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.11-0.76; P = .012, and OR, 5.12; 95% CI, 2.18-12.01; P < .001, respectively) and having cognitive impairment (OR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.18-5.04; P = .016) at baseline predicted sarcopenia after 9 years. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Cognitive impairment may predict sarcopenia in Brazilian older adults. More studies are necessary to identify the main mechanisms shared by sarcopenia and cognitive decline, which could support the development of prevention interventions.

Factors associated with added sugar consumption of older adults from the region of Campinas-SP, Brazil. / Fatores associados ao consumo de açúcares de adição de idosos da região de Campinas-SP, Brasil.

Adequate nutrition has a profound impact on older adults' health. Therefore, special attention should be given to the dietetic intake of added sugars, which in excess is associated with poorer control of chronic diseases in this phase. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of consumption of added sugars in older adults in the Campinas-SP region, its associated factors, and its main dietary sources. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the region of Campinas-SP, with a convenience sample of 586 older individuals. Intake was obtained using two 24-hour food recalls, and values >5% of total energy consumption were considered inadequate. The contribution of the groups and foods in relation to the total content of sugars was also calculated. A critical level of p<0.05 was considered. The average intake of added sugars was higher than recommended (7.0%), and this inadequacy was observed in more than half of the sample, being table sugar and honey the main dietary sources. The prevalence of inadequate consumption was higher among women (69.8%; p=0.004) and individuals with low weight (83.7%; p=0.014), and lower in those with diabetes (47.8%; p<0.001). Results indicate that health and nutrition actions should be developed to ensure adequate sugar intake at this stage.

A alimentação adequada tem profundo impacto na saúde dos idosos, e uma especial atenção deve ser dada ao consumo de açúcares de adição na dieta, que em excesso está associado a pior controle das doenças crônicas nesta fase. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a prevalência do consumo de açúcares de adição de idosos da região de Campinas-SP, seus fatores associados e suas principais fontes alimentares. Trata-se de estudo transversal realizado na região de Campinas-SP, com amostra de conveniência de 586 idosos. O consumo foi obtido por meio de dois recordatórios de 24 horas, sendo inadequado se >5% do consumo energético total. Também foi calculada a contribuição dos alimentos em relação ao teor total de açúcares. Considerou-se nível crítico de p<0,05. O consumo médio de açúcares de adição estava acima do recomendado (7,0%), inadequado em mais da metade da população estudada, sendo o açúcar de mesa e o mel as principais fontes dietéticas. A prevalência de inadequação do consumo foi maior entre mulheres (69,8%; p=0,004) e em indivíduos com baixo peso (83,7%; p=0,014), e o consumo foi menor em portadores de diabetes (47,8%; p<0,001). Os resultados apontam para que sejam elaboradas ações de saúde e nutrição a fim de garantir um consumo adequado de açúcares nesta fase.

Fatores associados ao consumo de açúcares de adição de idosos da região de Campinas-SP, Brasil / Factors associated with added sugar consumption of older adults from the region of Campinas-SP, Brazil

Resumo A alimentação adequada tem profundo impacto na saúde dos idosos, e uma especial atenção deve ser dada ao consumo de açúcares de adição na dieta, que em excesso está associado a pior controle das doenças crônicas nesta fase. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a prevalência do consumo de açúcares de adição de idosos da região de Campinas-SP, seus fatores associados e suas principais fontes alimentares. Trata-se de estudo transversal realizado na região de Campinas-SP, com amostra de conveniência de 586 idosos. O consumo foi obtido por meio de dois recordatórios de 24 horas, sendo inadequado se >5% do consumo energético total. Também foi calculada a contribuição dos alimentos em relação ao teor total de açúcares. Considerou-se nível crítico de p<0,05. O consumo médio de açúcares de adição estava acima do recomendado (7,0%), inadequado em mais da metade da população estudada, sendo o açúcar de mesa e o mel as principais fontes dietéticas. A prevalência de inadequação do consumo foi maior entre mulheres (69,8%; p=0,004) e em indivíduos com baixo peso (83,7%; p=0,014), e o consumo foi menor em portadores de diabetes (47,8%; p<0,001). Os resultados apontam para que sejam elaboradas ações de saúde e nutrição a fim de garantir um consumo adequado de açúcares nesta fase.

Abstract Adequate nutrition has a profound impact on older adults' health. Therefore, special attention should be given to the dietetic intake of added sugars, which in excess is associated with poorer control of chronic diseases in this phase. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of consumption of added sugars in older adults in the Campinas-SP region, its associated factors, and its main dietary sources. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the region of Campinas-SP, with a convenience sample of 586 older individuals. Intake was obtained using two 24-hour food recalls, and values >5% of total energy consumption were considered inadequate. The contribution of the groups and foods in relation to the total content of sugars was also calculated. A critical level of p<0.05 was considered. The average intake of added sugars was higher than recommended (7.0%), and this inadequacy was observed in more than half of the sample, being table sugar and honey the main dietary sources. The prevalence of inadequate consumption was higher among women (69.8%; p=0.004) and individuals with low weight (83.7%; p=0.014), and lower in those with diabetes (47.8%; p<0.001). Results indicate that health and nutrition actions should be developed to ensure adequate sugar intake at this stage.

Associação entre indicadores da capacidade funcional e do estado nutricional em idosos da comunidade: uma nova abordagem / Association between functional capacity and nutritional status indicators in elderly community: a new approach

Resumo Introdução Alterações na composição corporal do idoso podem ser rapidamente identificadas por profissionais de saúde na Atenção Básica, reduzindo o impacto sobre a saúde, o estado nutricional e a capacidade funcional. Objetivo Identificar relações entre massa e força muscular com o estado nutricional e a capacidade funcional em idosos da comunidade. Método Estudo transversal, envolvendo 323 idosos. A avaliação da composição corporal foi realizada por absorciometria (DEXA) e antropometria. A capacidade funcional foi avaliada pelas Atividades Instrumentais de Vida Diária, pela velocidade da marcha (VM) e Time Up and Go (TUG). Resultados Nesta amostra, o índice de massa magra (IMM) se mostrou associado aos indicadores do estado nutricional (IMC, CP e CC), além de ter apresentado importante correlação com a força de preensão palmar (FPP). A FPP esteve relacionada à VM e ao TUG. A análise de regressão identificou associação entre o IMC e o IMM (p<0,001), bem como entre a VM e a FPP (p=0,003). Conclusão A FPP se apresentou como importante indicador da capacidade funcional e se mostrou correlacionada com o IMM. Consequentemente, o IMM está associado aos indicadores do estado nutricional. Logo, na impossibilidade de avaliação do IMM, recomendamos a avaliação da FPP, CP e IMC como preditores de comprometimento do estado nutricional e da incapacidade funcional do idoso.

Abstract Background Changes in the body composition of the elderly can be quickly identified by health professionals in primary care, reducing the impact on health, nutritional status, and functional capacity. Objective To look for links between muscle mass and strength, nutritional status, and functional capacity in community-dwelling elderly. Method A cross-sectional study involving 323 elderly people was carried out. Body composition assessment was performed by absorptiometry (DEXA) and anthropometry. Functional capacity was assessed by Instrumental Activities of Daily Living and by gait speed (VM) and Time Up and Go (TUG). Results In this sample, the lean mass index (LMI) was associated with indicators of nutritional status (BMI, NC, and WC), in addition to having shown an important correlation with handgrip strength (HGS). HGS was associated with VM and TUG. Regression analysis identified an association between BMI and LMI (p < 0.001) and between GS and HGS (p = 0.003). Conclusion HGS was an important indicator of functional capacity and correlated with LMI. Consequently, the LMI is associated with indicators of nutritional status. Therefore, when it is impossible to assess the LMI, we recommend the assessment of HGS, NC and BMI as predictors of compromised nutritional status and functional disability in the elderly.

Translation, Adaptation, and Validity of the Short Food Literacy Questionnaire for Brazil.

Food literacy refers to the knowledge and skills related to healthy food choices. The aim of this study is to present the process of the cross-cultural adaptation and content validation of the Short Food Literacy Questionnaire (SFLQ) for the Brazilian population. The process of adaptation and validation of the SFLQ was conducted in four steps: (1) conceptual and item equivalence; (2) translation with semantic equivalence; (3) operational equivalence; (4) measurement equivalence. The study involved ten judges (food and nutrition experts) and 20 subjects (general population) in evaluating the semantic equivalence of the SFLQ. The semantic equivalence was assessed by calculating the content validity coefficient (CVC). All the items had a CVC greater than 0.80 considering all the evaluated parameters. The SFLQ has been adapted for the Brazilian context and guidelines. The adapted version of the questionnaire was referred to as the SFLQ-Br. The operational equivalence was conducted with 120 subjects using an online approach. The measurement equivalence was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis, a reliability assessment, and an instrument stability assessment. A single factor was extracted, and all the items had a factor loading of >0.40 and appropriate goodness-of-fit values. All the equivalence results show that the SFLQ-Br can be used in the Brazilian population as a reliable, consistent, and stable instrument to measure food literacy.

Food insecurity among older adults living in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Food insecurity is considered an increasing public health problem worldwide with adverse effects, especially among older adults. Although the literature related to food insecurity among older adults in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) is expanding, little is known about existing patterns and knowledge gaps in these settings. This scoping review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current research related to food insecurity among older adults in LMIC. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in November 2021 and revised in July 2022 on six databases using terms related to food insecurity and older adults. Data were extracted and the emerging themes from the main findings were summarized using a Social-Ecological Model (SEM). RESULTS: Forty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. Almost half (48.8%) were published in the last two years and utilized a quantitative approach (n=38). Only one study was conducted in a low-income country. Using the SEM, most studies included in this review focused on addressing the relationship between food insecurity with intrapersonal factors. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Several gaps in the current literature were identified. There is a lack of longitudinal and qualitative studies available on this topic. Also, only fifteen LMIC were represented in the literature. A critical point in this review is that only a few studies addressed the relationship between food insecurity and the policy/social structure, institutional, community and interpersonal levels. These identified gaps can serve as a guide for future research on this topic.

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.

[Patterns of food consumption in riverine communities in the mid-Solimões river region - Amazonas - Brazil]. / Padrões de consumo alimentar nas comunidades ribeirinhas da região do médio rio Solimões - Amazonas - Brasil.

This is a cross-sectional study conducted with 492 riverine residents in the rural area of Coari (AM) to identify food patterns in the mid-Solimões river region and associated factors. Food intake was evaluated using a brief Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and principal component analysis was used to identify dietary patterns. The association with socioeconomic variables was evaluated using generalized linear models. Four dietary patterns were identified: "vegetables" (vegetables, tubers, fruit); "Brazilian" (chicken, eggs, rice, beans); "traditional riverine" (fish, flour, milk); "meat and candies" (game and pork, candies). The "vegetable" pattern was associated with education (p = 0.001), number of rooms in the house (p = 0.005) and greater proximity to urban areas (p = 0.004). The "Brazilian" pattern was associated with the female sex (0.013), higher income (p < 0.001) and greater proximity to urban areas (p = 0.001). The "traditional riverine" pattern was associated with distance from the urban area (p < 0.001), and the "meat and candies" pattern was associated with age (p = 0.029), education (p < 0.001) and proximity to urban areas (p = 0.003). The extractive nature of riverine food intake is still present in more isolated communities, and consumption of other food items was associated with better social conditions.

Estudo transversal conduzido na zona rural de Coari (AM) com o objetivo de identificar padrões alimentares de 492 ribeirinhos da região do médio rio Solimões e fatores associados. Utilizou-se um questionário de frequência alimentar breve na avaliação do consumo alimentar. Padrões alimentares foram identificados a partir da análise de componentes principais, analisaram-se associações entre cada padrão e variáveis sociodemográficas utilizando-se modelos lineares generalizados. Identificaram-se quatro padrões alimentares: "vegetais" (vegetais, tubérculos, frutas); "brasileiro" (frango, ovos, arroz, feijão); "ribeirinho tradicional" (peixe, farinha, leite); "carnes e doces" (carnes de caça e de porco, doces). O padrão "vegetais" associou-se a escolaridade (p = 0,001), número de cômodos da residência (p = 0,005) e menor distância da área urbana (p = 0,004). O "brasileiro" associou-se a sexo feminino (p = 0,013), maior renda (p < 0,001) e menor distância da área urbana (p = 0,001). O padrão "ribeirinho tradicional" associou-se à distância da área urbana (p < 0,001), e o padrão "carnes e doces" a idade (p = 0,029), escolaridade (p < 0,001) e distância da área urbana (p = 0,003). O caráter extrativista da alimentação ribeirinha está presente nas comunidades mais isoladas, e o consumo de outros alimentos foi associado a melhores condições sociais.

Association between zinc deficiency and cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults. / Associação entre deficiência de zinco e declínio cognitivo em idosos da comunidade.

This is a cross-sectional study evaluating the association between zinc deficiency and cognitive decline in 591 community-dwelling older adults living in the cities of Campinas, Limeira, and Piracicaba-SP. Cognitive status was evaluated using the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument-CASI-S, considering a decline for scores <23 for those aged 60-69 and <20 for those aged ≥70 years. Among the evaluated cognitive domains, older adults with zinc deficiency had significantly lower mean scores on the memory test (p=0.018). For zinc deficiency, values below 70 µg/dL were considered for women and 74 µg/dL for men. The prevalence of zinc deficiency was 3.9%, and cognitive deficit was 9.4%, being significantly higher in those with zinc deficiency compared with those with normal serum zinc concentrations. In adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis, the factors that remained associated with cognitive decline were zinc deficiency (OR=3.80; 95%CI=1.30-11.12), low schooling level (OR=3.12; 95%CI=1.49-6.50), lack of a partner (OR=1.88; 95%CI=1.04-3.42), risk of malnutrition (OR=3.98; 95%CI=2.36-6.71), and a history of encephalic vascular accident (OR=2.70; 95%CI=1.04-6.98). Zinc deficiency was associated with the presence of cognitive decline in older adults. Actions in primary health care are necessary to prevent the deficiency of this nutrient.

Estudo transversal avaliou a associação entre deficiência de zinco sérico e declínio cognitivo em 591 idosos da comunidade residentes nos municípios de Campinas, Limeira e Piracicaba-SP. A cognição foi avaliada pelo Instrumento de Triagem de Habilidades Cognitivas-CASI-S considerando declínio pontuação <23 em idosos de 60-69 anos e <20 em idosos ≥70 anos. Considerou-se deficiência de zinco sérico valor de <70 µg/dL para mulheres e 74 µg/dL para homens. Entre os domínios cognitivos, idosos com deficiência de zinco tiveram pontuação média significativamente menor no teste de memória (p=0,018). A prevalência da deficiência de zinco foi de 3,9%, e de 9,4% de declínio cognitivo, sendo significativamente maior em idosos com deficiência de zinco do que os que não tinham (26,1% e 8,8%, respectivamente). Em análise de regressão logística múltipla ajustada, os fatores que permaneceram associados ao declínio cognitivo foram deficiência de zinco (OR=3,80; IC95%=1,30-11,12), baixa escolaridade (OR=3,12; IC95%=1,49-6,50), não ter companheiro (OR=1,88; IC95%=1,04-3,42), risco de desnutrição (OR=3,98; IC95%=2,36-6,71), e histórico de acidente vascular encefálico (OR=2,70; IC95%=1,04-6,98). A deficiência de zinco foi associada ao declínio cognitivo em idosos. Ações na atenção básica de saúde são necessárias para prevenir a deficiência deste nutriente.

Diet quality among older adults: What the Index Associated with the Digital Food Guide and the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index-Revised Reveal. / O que revela o Índice de Qualidade da Dieta associado ao Guia Alimentar Digital comparativamente a outro índice, em idosos?

The aim of the present study was to compare the Diet Quality Index-Digital Food Guide (DQI-DFG) to a more widely used measure in the literature: the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index-Revised (BHEI-R). A cross-sectional population-based study was conducted with 822 older adults (≥ 60 years) from the city of Campinas/SP, Brazil. The BHEI-R resulted in a higher overall score compared to DQI-DFG (62.9 vs. 47.7). For the BHEI-R, mean scores increased with age and were worse among smokers and individuals with a higher level of schooling. Regarding the DQI-DFG scores, no significant associations with age, schooling or smoking were detected; however, scores were higher in higher income segments. The components with the worst scores were whole grains, sodium and milk (BHEI-R); fruits, whole grains, roots/tubers, milk, refined cereals and red meat/processed (DQI-DFG). Divergences were found in the global scores and components of the indicators, reflecting important methodological differences. Studies of this nature constitute an opportunity to increase awareness regarding indicators of particular aspects of diet.

Objetivou-se avaliar o Índice de Qualidade da Dieta associado ao Guia Alimentar Digital (IQD-GAD) em comparação a outro mais utilizado e difundido na literatura, o Índice de Qualidade da Dieta Revisado (IQD-R). Estudo transversal de base populacional, com 822 idosos (≥ 60 anos) de Campinas, São Paulo. Utilizaram-se dados de um recordatório de 24 horas para efetuar os indicadores, cujas pontuações globais variam de zero a cem: quanto maior, melhor é a qualidade. Regressão linear simples e múltipla foi aplicada nas análises. O IQD-R resultou em maior pontuação global do que o IQD-GAD (62,9 vs. 47,5). No IQD-R, os escores médios foram melhores nos mais longevos e piores nos mais escolarizados e nos tabagistas. Quanto aos escores do IQD-GAD, não foram detectadas diferenças significativas em idade, escolaridade e tabagismo, mas foram maiores em segmentos de maior renda. Os componentes com piores pontuações: cereais integrais, sódio e leite (IQD-R); frutas, cereais integrais, raízes/tubérculos, leite, cereais refinados e carne vermelha/processada (IQD-GAD). Observaram-se discrepâncias nos escores globais e dos componentes dos indicadores, que refletem importantes diferenças metodológicas. Investigações dessa natureza configuram uma oportunidade de aprimorar a sensibilidade de indicadores a aspectos particulares da alimentação.

O que revela o Índice de Qualidade da Dieta associado ao Guia Alimentar Digital comparativamente a outro índice, em idosos? / Diet quality among older adults: What the Index Associated with the Digital Food Guide and the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index-Revised Reveal

Resumo Objetivou-se avaliar o Índice de Qualidade da Dieta associado ao Guia Alimentar Digital (IQD-GAD) em comparação a outro mais utilizado e difundido na literatura, o Índice de Qualidade da Dieta Revisado (IQD-R). Estudo transversal de base populacional, com 822 idosos (≥ 60 anos) de Campinas, São Paulo. Utilizaram-se dados de um recordatório de 24 horas para efetuar os indicadores, cujas pontuações globais variam de zero a cem: quanto maior, melhor é a qualidade. Regressão linear simples e múltipla foi aplicada nas análises. O IQD-R resultou em maior pontuação global do que o IQD-GAD (62,9 vs. 47,5). No IQD-R, os escores médios foram melhores nos mais longevos e piores nos mais escolarizados e nos tabagistas. Quanto aos escores do IQD-GAD, não foram detectadas diferenças significativas em idade, escolaridade e tabagismo, mas foram maiores em segmentos de maior renda. Os componentes com piores pontuações: cereais integrais, sódio e leite (IQD-R); frutas, cereais integrais, raízes/tubérculos, leite, cereais refinados e carne vermelha/processada (IQD-GAD). Observaram-se discrepâncias nos escores globais e dos componentes dos indicadores, que refletem importantes diferenças metodológicas. Investigações dessa natureza configuram uma oportunidade de aprimorar a sensibilidade de indicadores a aspectos particulares da alimentação.

Abstract The aim of the present study was to compare the Diet Quality Index-Digital Food Guide (DQI-DFG) to a more widely used measure in the literature: the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index-Revised (BHEI-R). A cross-sectional population-based study was conducted with 822 older adults (≥ 60 years) from the city of Campinas/SP, Brazil. The BHEI-R resulted in a higher overall score compared to DQI-DFG (62.9 vs. 47.7). For the BHEI-R, mean scores increased with age and were worse among smokers and individuals with a higher level of schooling. Regarding the DQI-DFG scores, no significant associations with age, schooling or smoking were detected; however, scores were higher in higher income segments. The components with the worst scores were whole grains, sodium and milk (BHEI-R); fruits, whole grains, roots/tubers, milk, refined cereals and red meat/processed (DQI-DFG). Divergences were found in the global scores and components of the indicators, reflecting important methodological differences. Studies of this nature constitute an opportunity to increase awareness regarding indicators of particular aspects of diet.

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.

Vitamin D insufficiency and factors associated: a study with older adults people from primary health care network. / Insuficiência de vitamina D e fatores associados: um estudo com idosos assistidos por serviços de atenção básica à saúde.

This article aims to analyze vitamin D insufficiency and factors associated among older adults using primary health care services. This is a cross-sectional study that evaluated 533 older adults individuals (≥ 60 years old) in three cities in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) was evaluated by chemiluminescence. The factors evaluated were sociodemographic information (sex, age group, ethnicity, education, income, marital status), health conditions (reported diseases), body composition (BMI, waist circumference), lifestyle (physical activity and smoking), and sun exposure (purpose, duration, frequency, time of exposure, exposed body parts, use of sunscreen, skin type). The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency was 64.5%, presenting association with female participants, non-white/unreported ethnicity, low weight, high waist circumference (risk for CVD - cardiovascular disease), and physical inactivity. Negative association was observed with habitual sun exposure of hands, arms and legs, during leisure activities, daily commuting and physical activity, and between 9 am and 3 pm. The findings show the relevance of factors such as sex, ethnicity, body composition, physical activity, and sun exposure habits in the high prevalence of inadequate levels of vitamin D among older adults.

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a insuficiência de vitamina D e fatores associados em idosos assistidos na atenção primária à saúde. Trata-se de um estudo transversal que avaliou 533 idosos (≥ 60 anos) em três cidades do estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Foi avaliada a 25-hidroxivitamina D (25 OH D) sérica por quimioluminescência. Os fatores avaliados foram condições sociodemográficas (sexo, faixa etária, etnia, escolaridade, renda, estado civil), de saúde (doenças referidas), composição corporal (IMC, circunferência da cintura), estilo de vida (atividade física e tabagismo) e exposição solar (finalidade, duração, frequência e horário de exposição, partes expostas, uso de protetor solar, tipo de pele). A prevalência de insuficiência foi de 64,5%, com associação para sexo feminino, etnia não brancos/não declarados, baixo peso, circunferência da cintura elevada (risco para DCV) e inatividade física. Houve associação negativa para exposição solar habitual de mãos, braços e pernas, durante atividade de lazer, deslocamentos diários e atividade física e entre as 9h e 15h. Os achados mostram a relevância de fatores como sexo, etnia, composição corporal, atividade física e hábitos de exposição solar na alta prevalência de níveis inadequados de vitamina D em idosos.

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.

Padrões de consumo alimentar nas comunidades ribeirinhas da região do médio rio Solimões - Amazonas - Brasil / Patterns of food consumption in riverine communities in the mid-Solimões river region - Amazonas - Brazil

Resumo Estudo transversal conduzido na zona rural de Coari (AM) com o objetivo de identificar padrões alimentares de 492 ribeirinhos da região do médio rio Solimões e fatores associados. Utilizou-se um questionário de frequência alimentar breve na avaliação do consumo alimentar. Padrões alimentares foram identificados a partir da análise de componentes principais, analisaram-se associações entre cada padrão e variáveis sociodemográficas utilizando-se modelos lineares generalizados. Identificaram-se quatro padrões alimentares: "vegetais" (vegetais, tubérculos, frutas); "brasileiro" (frango, ovos, arroz, feijão); "ribeirinho tradicional" (peixe, farinha, leite); "carnes e doces" (carnes de caça e de porco, doces). O padrão "vegetais" associou-se a escolaridade (p = 0,001), número de cômodos da residência (p = 0,005) e menor distância da área urbana (p = 0,004). O "brasileiro" associou-se a sexo feminino (p = 0,013), maior renda (p < 0,001) e menor distância da área urbana (p = 0,001). O padrão "ribeirinho tradicional" associou-se à distância da área urbana (p < 0,001), e o padrão "carnes e doces" a idade (p = 0,029), escolaridade (p < 0,001) e distância da área urbana (p = 0,003). O caráter extrativista da alimentação ribeirinha está presente nas comunidades mais isoladas, e o consumo de outros alimentos foi associado a melhores condições sociais.

Abstract This is a cross-sectional study conducted with 492 riverine residents in the rural area of Coari (AM) to identify food patterns in the mid-Solimões river region and associated factors. Food intake was evaluated using a brief Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and principal component analysis was used to identify dietary patterns. The association with socioeconomic variables was evaluated using generalized linear models. Four dietary patterns were identified: "vegetables" (vegetables, tubers, fruit); "Brazilian" (chicken, eggs, rice, beans); "traditional riverine" (fish, flour, milk); "meat and candies" (game and pork, candies). The "vegetable" pattern was associated with education (p = 0.001), number of rooms in the house (p = 0.005) and greater proximity to urban areas (p = 0.004). The "Brazilian" pattern was associated with the female sex (0.013), higher income (p < 0.001) and greater proximity to urban areas (p = 0.001). The "traditional riverine" pattern was associated with distance from the urban area (p < 0.001), and the "meat and candies" pattern was associated with age (p = 0.029), education (p < 0.001) and proximity to urban areas (p = 0.003). The extractive nature of riverine food intake is still present in more isolated communities, and consumption of other food items was associated with better social conditions.