Cognitive function is associated with performance in time up and go test and with leptin blood levels in community-dwelling older women.

Considering the challenge that cognitive dysfunction and dementia represent to health is imperative to prioritize early diagnosis strategies and explore the pathophysiological mechanisms. There is no consensus on specific markers and physical tests that indicate cognitive decline in older. The objective of this study was to evaluate a panel of inflammatory biomarkers and physical function and investigate their association with cognitive function in community-dwelling older women. Seventy-one participants were included in this study. Cognitive function was assessed by Mini Mental State Examination, muscle strength using dynamometer, body composition using Dual X-ray absorptiometry, respiratory muscle strength using manuvacuometer, and physical function using the Short Physical Performance Battery and Time Up and Go (TUG) tests. Blood samples were collected to analyze a panel of inflammatory biomarkers. The cognitive function was associated with TUG (ß = - 0.48; 95%IC = - 0.54 to - 0.21; p < 0.001), inspiratory muscle strength (ß = 0.30; 95%IC = 0.005-0.03; p = 0.009), and leptin concentrations (ß = 0.32; 95% IC = 0.001-0.006; 0.007). Time spent on TUG test and leptin levels accounted for 27% of variability in cognitive function independent of age. Poorer physical function with leptin plasma levels is associated with decreased cognitive function in older women. These findings contribute to comprehension of pathophysiology underlying cognitive decline and informing the development of new approaches to prevent, diagnose, monitoring and treat cognitive decline in aging.

Comparison of DN4 and DN4 Interview Tests in the Identification of Neuropathic Pain after Fracture Surgery.

Objective: This study aimed to compare results obtained with the DN4 (in-person interview) and DN4i (telephone interview) questionnaires in identifying neuropathic pain after fracture surgery. Methods: This study was methodological, using questionnaires administered in person (DN4) or via telephone (DN4i). The participants were at least 18 years old, underwent fracture surgery at a university hospital between January 2017 and July 2020, signed the Informed Consent Form (ICF), and could go to the Orthopedics and Traumatology Hospital. Pearson's correlation coefficient determined the agreement between the total score obtained during in-person and telephone interviews. The kappa coefficient evaluated the agreement between individual questionnaire items. Results: Of the 53 participants, 50 presented the same result for neuropathic pain screening in DN4 and DN4i, including 41 with a positive score for neuropathic pain and 12 with a negative score. The Pearson's correlation coefficient and kappa coefficient were r = 0.84. Conclusion: DN4 and DN4i presented a strong agreement between individual items of the questionnaires and the total scores obtained.

Does the intensity of pain and disability affect health-related quality of life of older adults with back pain? Multilevel analysis between Brazil and Netherlands: a cross-sectional study of the BACE consortium.

BACKGROUND: The prognosis of back pain (BP) in the older adults is less favorable than in younger adults and progress to adverse outcomes and consequent worsening of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The present study aimed to verify the association between BP intensity, disability and HRQoL in older adults residents in Brazil and Netherlands, and to evaluate whether the country of residence influences the associations. METHODS: Data were collected from 602 Brazilian and 675 Dutch participants with a new episode of BP from the Back Complaints in Elders (BACE) consortium. For the present study, a cross section was used. Pain intensity and disability were assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), respectively. HRQoL was assessed using the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) quality of life questionnaire. Age, sex, and education were descriptive variables. Pain intensity (NPS score) and country were the independent variables and quality of life assessed by each SF domain - 36 was the dependent variable. Analysis of models at the individual level was performed to verify the association between pain and disability, also HRQoL in Netherlands and Brazil in the total sample. The multilevel model was used to verify whether the older adults person's country of residence influenced this relationship. RESULTS: The average age of the participants was 67.00 (7.33) years. In the total sample, linear regression analysis adjusted for sex and age showed a significant association between BP intensity scores and HRQoL, for all domains. There was no association between disability and HRQoL. In the multilevel analysis, there was an association between BP intensity and HRQoL in all domains and an association between the country of residence and HRQoL, influencing the effect of pain, in all domains, except for the physical functioning. CONCLUSION: Socioeconomic and cultural aspects of different countries can affect the perception of the elderly about their HRQoL in the presence of BP. Pain and disability in Brazilian and Dutch older adults ones are experienced differently in relation to their HRQoL.

Inflammatory biomarkers at different stages of Sarcopenia in older women.

In recent years, studies have found that Sarcopenia alters inflammatory biomarkers. However, the behavior of inflammatory biomarkers at different stages of Sarcopenia is not well understood. This study aimed to compare a broad panel of inflammatory biomarkers in older women at different stages of Sarcopenia. The study included 71 Brazilian community-dwelling older women. Muscle Strength was assessed by using handgrip strength (Jamar dynamometer). The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) was performed to assess the physical performance, and body composition was assessed by DEXA. Sarcopenia was diagnosed and classified according to the EWGSOP2 criteria. Blood was drawn, and inflammatory biomarkers associated with Sarcopenia (IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF, adiponectin, leptin, resistin, BDNF, sTNFr-1 and sTNFr-2) was analysed. After diagnosis and classification of sarcopenia, 45% of women did not present Sarcopenia (NS, N = 32), 23.9% were diagnosed with Sarcopenia Probable (SP, N = 17), 19,7% with Sarcopenia Confirmed (SC, N = 14), and 11.3% with Severe Sarcopenia (SS, N = 8). The analysis of inflammatory biomarkers revealed that the more advanced the stage of Sarcopenia, the higher the levels of BDNF, IL-8, sTNFr-1, and sTNFr-2. The assessment of BDNF, IL-8, sTNFr-1, and sTNFr-2 levels may be an adjuvant tool in diagnosis and severity classification of Sarcopenia in older Brazilian women.

Factors Associated with Readmission within 30 Days after Discharge and In-Hospital Mortality after Proximal Femoral Fracture Surgery in the Elderly: Retrospective Cohort.

Objective To evaluate the factors associated with readmission within 30 days after discharge (R30) and in-hospital mortality (IHM) in elderly patients undergoing proximal femur fracture surgery (PFF). Methods Retrospective cohort with data from 896 medical records of elderly (≥ 60 years) patients submitted to PFF surgery in a Brazilian hospital between November 2014 and December, 2019. The patients included were followed-up from the date of hospitalization for surgery up to 30 days after discharge. As independent variables, we evaluated gender, age, marital status, pre- and postoperative hemoglobin (Hb), international normalized ratio, time of hospitalization related to the surgery, door-surgery time, comorbidities, previous surgeries, use of medications, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score. Results The incidence of R30 was 10.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.3-12.3%), and the incidence of IHM was 5.7% (95%CI: 4.3-7.4%). Regarding R30, hypertension (odds ratio [OR]: 1.71; 95%CI: 1.03-2.96), and regular use of psychotropic drugs (OR: 1.74; 95%CI: 1.12-2.72) were associated in the adjusted model. In the case of IHM, higher chances were associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR: 5.80; 95%CI: 2.64-12.31), longer hospitalization time (OR: 1.06; 95%CI: 1.01-1.10), and R30 (OR: 3.60; 95%CI: 1.54-7.96). Higher preoperative Hb values were associated with a lower chance of mortality (OR: 0.73; 95%CI: 0.61-0.87). Conclusion Findings suggest that the occurrence of these outcomes is associated with comorbidities, medications, and Hb.

Factors Associated with Readmission within 30 Days after Discharge and In-Hospital Mortality after Proximal Femoral Fracture Surgery in the Elderly: Retrospective Cohort / Fatores associados à reinternação em até 30 dias após a alta e à mortalidade intra-hospitalar após cirurgia por fratura do fêmur proximal em idosos: coorte retrospectiva

Abstract Objective To evaluate the factors associated with readmission within 30 days after discharge (R30) and in-hospital mortality (IHM) in elderly patients undergoing proximal femur fracture surgery (PFF). Methods Retrospective cohort with data from 896 medical records of elderly (≥ 60 years) patients submitted to PFF surgery in a Brazilian hospital between November 2014 and December, 2019. The patients included were followed-up from the date of hospitalization for surgery up to 30 days after discharge. As independent variables, we evaluated gender, age, marital status, pre- and postoperative hemoglobin (Hb), international normalized ratio, time of hospitalization related to the surgery, door-surgery time, comorbidities, previous surgeries, use of medications, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score. Results The incidence of R30 was 10.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.3-12.3%), and the incidence of IHM was 5.7% (95%CI: 4.3-7.4%). Regarding R30, hypertension (odds ratio [OR]: 1.71; 95%CI: 1.03-2.96), and regular use of psychotropic drugs (OR: 1.74; 95%CI: 1.12-2.72) were associated in the adjusted model. In the case of IHM, higher chances were associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR: 5.80; 95%CI: 2.64-12.31), longer hospitalization time (OR: 1.06; 95%CI: 1.01-1.10), and R30 (OR: 3.60; 95%CI: 1.54-7.96). Higher preoperative Hb values were associated with a lower chance of mortality (OR: 0.73; 95%CI: 0.61-0.87). Conclusion Findings suggest that the occurrence of these outcomes is associated with comorbidities, medications, and Hb.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar os fatores associados à reinternação em até 30 dias após a alta (R30) e à mortalidade intra-hospitalar (MIH) em idosos submetidos a cirurgia por fratura do fêmur proximal (FFP). Métodos Coorte retrospectiva com dados de 896 prontuários de idosos (≥ 60 anos) submetidos a cirurgia de FFP em hospital brasileiro, no período entre novembro de 2014 a dezembro de 2019. Os pacientes incluídos foram acompanhados desde a data de internação para a cirurgia até 30 dias após a alta. Como variáveis independentes, foram avaliados o sexo, idade, estado civil, hemoglobina (Hb) pré e pós-operatória, razão normalizada internacional, tempo da internação relacionada à cirurgia, tempo porta cirurgia, comorbidades, cirurgias prévias, uso de medicamentos e escore da American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). Resultados A incidência de R30 foi de 10,2% (intervalo de confiança [IC] 95%: 8,3-12,3%) e a de MIH foi 5,7% (IC95%: 4,3-7,4%). Referente a R30, no modelo ajustado, associaram-se ter hipertensão (odds ratio [OR]: 1,71; IC95%: 1,03-2,96), uso regular de medicamentos psicotrópicos (OR: 1,74; IC95%: 1,12-2,72). Tratando-se da MIH, maiores chances estiveram associadas à doença renal crônica (DRC) (OR: 5,80; IC95%: 2,64-12,31), maior tempo de internação (OR: 1,06; IC95%: 1,01-1,10) e R30 (OR: 3,60; IC95%: 1,54-7,96). Maiores valores de Hb pré-operatória associaram-se à menor chance de mortalidade (OR: 0,73; IC95%: 0,61-0,87). Conclusão Os achados sugerem que a ocorrência destes desfechos está associada à comorbidades, medicamentos e Hb.

Prevalence of sarcopenia in older women and level of agreement between the diagnostic instruments proposed by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2).

BACKGROUND: The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2) proposed the use of different diagnostic tools to assess sarcopenia. This study aimed to determine prevalence rates of sarcopenia according to the diagnostic instruments proposed by EWGSOP2 and to assess their level of agreement in older Brazilian women. METHODS: A cross-sectional study with 161 community-dwelling older Brazilian women. Probable sarcopenia was assessed through Handgrip Strength (HGS) and the 5-times sit-to-stand test (5XSST). In addition to reduced strength, Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass (ASM) (obtained by Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) and ASM/height² were considered for diagnosis confirmation. Sarcopenia severity was determined by reduced muscle strength and mass and poor functional performance assessed by Gait Speed (GS), Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), and Timed Up and Go test (TUG). McNemar's test and Cochran's Q-test were used to compare sarcopenia prevalence. Cohen's Kappa and Fleiss's Kappa tests were used to assess the level of agreement. RESULTS: The prevalence of probable sarcopenia was significantly different (p < 0.05) when using HGS (12.8%) and 5XSST (40.6%). Regarding confirmed sarcopenia, the prevalence was lower when using ASM/height² than with ASM. Regarding severity, the use of SPPB resulted in a higher prevalence in relation to GS and TUG. CONCLUSION: There were differences in the prevalence rates of sarcopenia and low agreement between the diagnostic instruments proposed by the EWGSOP2. The findings suggest that these issues must be considered in the discussion on the concept and assessment of sarcopenia, which could ultimately help to better identify patients with this disease in different populations.

The impact of low back pain and disability on frailty levels in older women: longitudinal data from the BACE-Brazil cohort.

METHODS: This is a longitudinal observational study with a convenience subsample from the international Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE)-Brazil. Frailty was assessed by researchers at baseline, 6 and 12 months according to the Frailty Phenotype. Pain was assessed using a Numerical Pain Scale (NPS). Disability was assessed using the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 155 older women (70.4 ± 5.4 years) participated. Follow-up for 6 and 12 months in this study was associated with a change of older women to worse frailty levels (OR = 2.83, 95% CI 1.98-4.67; p < 0.01). A significant association was observed between greater pain intensity and the transition of the older women through the frailty levels (ß = - 0.73; p < 0.01) when inserting the pain variable at baseline of the statistical model. Older women who reported greater pain intensity worsened their frailty level. The same happened when the disability variable was inserted in the model (ß = - 0.74; p < 0.01). The criteria proposed by Fried et al. were able to identify frailty throughout the follow-up and no prevalence of any item. CONCLUSIONS: In older women, relevant factors such as pain and disability are closely linked to the frailty phenomenon. Thus, the frailty syndrome must be assessed, monitored and treated in relation to the individualities of older adults, as those with back pain and greater disabilities are more susceptible to frailty.

Accuracy of handgrip and respiratory muscle strength in identifying sarcopenia in older, community-dwelling, Brazilian women.

Certain cut-off points for sarcopenia screening and diagnosis are arbitrary and based on European populations, with normative references often obtained from healthy young adults. Although respiratory skeletal muscle strength tests represent low-cost clinical measures commonly performed in clinical practice by health professionals, a gap remains regarding whether respiratory skeletal muscle strength tests are adequate and sensitive measures for sarcopenia screening. This study aimed to verify the value of handgrip and respiratory muscle strength as possible discriminators to identify sarcopenia and to establish cut-off points for sarcopenia screening in community-dwelling, Brazilian women. In a cross-sectional study, 154 community-dwelling, Brazilian women (65-96 years) were assessed for appendicular skeletal muscle mass, handgrip (HGS), and respiratory muscular strength, including maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP). The data were analyzed using the ROC curve and the Youden Index determined cut-off points. Statistical significance was set at 5%. 88 participants (57%) were sarcopenic. MEP (OR 0.98 [95%CI 0.97, 1.00], p = 0.023) and HGS (OR 0.82 [95% CI 0.75, 0.90], p < 0.001) were independent factors for sarcopenia in older. The optimal cut-off points for identifying sarcopenia were ≤ 77 cmH2O for MEP (AUC = 0.72), and ≤ 20 kg for HGS (AUC = 0.80). Simple muscular strength tests, including HGS and MEP, may be considered in the identification of sarcopenia in older, community-dwelling, Brazilian women. Future work is still needed to assess external validation of the proposed cut-offs before the clinical application.

Are sociodemographic and anthropometric variables effective in screening probable and confirmed sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults? A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Screening for probable and confirmed sarcopenia using sociodemographic and anthropometric indicators can be a practical, cheap, and effective strategy to identify and treat older people susceptible to this condition. OBJECTIVES: To identify cutoff points for sociodemographic and anthropometric variables in screening probable and confirmed sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling older adults in Araranguá, Santa Catarina, Brazil. METHODS: Sociodemographic (age, education) and anthropometric (weight, height, body mass index [BMI], waist circumference [WC], and dominant calf circumference [DCC]) factors were considered as predictors. The outcomes were probable sarcopenia (reduction in muscle strength assessed by time ≥ 15 s in the five-time sit-to-stand test) and confirmed sarcopenia (reduction in strength and muscle mass). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to analyze the ability to track sociodemographic and anthropometric variables for sarcopenia. RESULTS: In 308 older adults, WC > 91 cm in women and age > 69 years in men were useful in screening for probable sarcopenia. The variables age, weight, BMI, WC, and DCC can be used to screen for sarcopenia in older women and men. CONCLUSION: Sociodemographic and anthropometric variables are simple and accessible tools for sarcopenia screening in older adults.

Adiponectin Is a Contributing Factor of Low Appendicular Lean Mass in Older Community-Dwelling Women: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Inflammation is a chronic, sterile, low-grade inflammation that develops with advanced age in the absence of overt infection and may contribute to the pathophysiology of sarcopenia, a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder. Furthermore, a series of biomarkers linked to sarcopenia occurrence have emerged. To aid diagnostic and treatment strategies for low muscle mass in sarcopenia and other related conditions, the objective of this work was to investigate potential biomarkers associated with appendicular lean mass in community-dwelling older women. This is a cross-sectional study with 71 older women (75 ± 7 years). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was used to assess body composition. Plasmatic blood levels of adipokines (i.e., adiponectin, leptin, and resistin), tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and soluble receptors (sTNFr1 and sTNFr2), interferon (INF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and interleukins (IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Older women with low muscle mass showed higher plasma levels of adiponectin, sTNFr1, and IL-8 compared to the regular muscle mass group. In addition, higher adiponectin plasma levels explained 14% of the lower appendicular lean mass. High adiponectin plasmatic blood levels can contribute to lower appendicular lean mass in older, community-dwelling women.

Are sociodemographic and anthropometric variables effective in screening probable and confirmed sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults? A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Screening for probable and confirmed sarcopenia using sociodemographic and anthropometric indicators can be a practical, cheap, and effective strategy to identify and treat older people susceptible to this condition. OBJECTIVES: To identify cutoff points for sociodemographic and anthropometric variables in screening probable and confirmed sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling older adults in Araranguá, Santa Catarina, Brazil. METHODS: Sociodemographic (age, education) and anthropometric (weight, height, body mass index [BMI], waist circumference [WC], and dominant calf circumference [DCC]) factors were considered as predictors. The outcomes were probable sarcopenia (reduction in muscle strength assessed by time ≥ 15 s in the five-time sit-to-stand test) and confirmed sarcopenia (reduction in strength and muscle mass). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to analyze the ability to track sociodemographic and anthropometric variables for sarcopenia. RESULTS: In 308 older adults, WC > 91 cm in women and age > 69 years in men were useful in screening for probable sarcopenia. The variables age, weight, BMI, WC, and DCC can be used to screen for sarcopenia in older women and men. CONCLUSION: Sociodemographic and anthropometric variables are simple and accessible tools for sarcopenia screening in older adults.

Plasma levels of myokines and inflammatory markers are related with functional and respiratory performance in older adults with COPD and sarcopenia.

This study investigated whether blood-based biomarkers were related to functional test performance and respiratory muscle strength in older adults with COPD and sarcopenia. The participants included in this cross-sectional study were from both sexes and sixty years or older. Based on clinical assessment, participants were categorized in COPD (n = 43) and non-COPD (NCOPD) (n = 43) groups. They were also assessed for body composition and muscular mass by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, using the relative skeletal muscle index for the diagnosis of sarcopenia. A series of functional tests, including short physical performance battery (SPPB), 6-minute walking test (6MWT), maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP and MEP), were carried out. Plasma levels of myokines (Irisin and BDNF), and soluble TNF receptors (sTNFR1 and sTNFR2) were determined by ELISA. In the multivariate analysis, 6MWD was associated with age, COPD-related sarcopenia and BDNF (R2 = 0.29; f2 = 0.41). SPPB score was associated with COPD-related sarcopenia and sTNFR1 (R2 = 0.25; f2 = 0.33). MIP value was associated with sex, COPD-related sarcopenia, sTNFR2 and Irisin (R2 = 0.24; f2 = 0.31). Finally, MEP value was associated with sex COPD-related sarcopenia (R2 = 0.18; f2 = 0.22). Plasma levels of myokines and inflammatory markers are related with functional and respiratory performance in older adults with COPD and sarcopenia.

Gender differentiated score on the Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I Brazil) to assess self-efficacy in falls in community-dwelling older adults.

BACKGROUND: Since fear of falling is associated with a history of falls and is more prevalent in women, it is important to define cut-off points differentiated between genders on the Falls Efficacy Scale International Brazil (FES-I Brazil) to implement early prevention and/or rehabilitation strategies. AIMS: To determine cut-off points on the FES-I Brazil differentiated between genders which discriminate falls and verify their association with the history of falls. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study including 306 community-dwelling older adults. Fear of falling score from the FES-I Brazil was the independent variable and the outcome was the history of falls in the last 12 months. The cut-off points differentiated between genders were established according to sensitivity and specificity values evaluated by the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves (ROC). The multivariable logistic regression was used to verify the association between fear of falling and history of falls. RESULTS: The cut-off points on the FES-I Brazil to discriminate falls were > 25 points [AUC: 0.67 (95% CI 0.59-0.73)] for women, and > 19 points [AUC: 0.66 (95% CI 0.57-0.74) for men, suggesting that women present a greater fear of falling than men, due to the higher cut-off point found for women. Women and men with fear of falling, respectively, had 2.14 (95% CI 1.11-4.13) and 2.62 (95% CI 1.10-6.85) higher odds of suffering falls compared to those without this condition. CONCLUSIONS: The FES-I can be used to discriminate falls in the elderly and shows that women have a higher cut-off point than men on the scale.

The effect of kinesiophobia in older people with acute low back pain: longitudinal data from Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE).

This study aimed to investigate the course of low back pain (LBP) intensity over a period of 12 months in older people with and without kinesiophobia.This was an international multicenter study. LBP intensity was examined by using the Numerical Pain Scale at baseline and over five follow-up periods. The Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire was used to measure patients' beliefs and fears. The study included 532 older adults (non kinesiophobic = 227; kinesiophobic = 305). The individuals had moderate pain at baseline, with a significant difference observed between the groups. Participants showed a rapid improvement in the first 6 weeks, followed by minor improvements in the succeeding months. However, a significant difference between groups remained during the follow-up period. Independently, kinesiophobia is a significant prognostic factor. These findings suggest the importance of screening for psychosocial factors in the management of older patients with LBP. Practice implications: patients need to be warned that pain can be perpetuated by inappropriate avoidance behaviors that may later lead to disability.

Is the self-perception of the built neighborhood associated with fear of falling in community-dwelling older adults?

INTRODUCTION: Characteristics of a built neighborhood may aggravate agravett to fear of falling in older adults and this knowledge are important to contribute to developing strategies aimed at reducing fear of falling and their consequences. OBJECTIVE: To verify the association between self-perception of built neighborhood characteristics and fear of falling in community-dwelling older adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study including 308 community-dwelling older adults. The outcome was fear of falling evaluated through Falls Efficacy Scale International. Older adults were classified with high fear of falling when they obtained values ≥ 23 points and classified as low fear of falling with score < 23 point. The built neighborhood variables were evaluated by the adapted Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to verify associations between the variables. RESULTS: The prevalence of fear of falling was 48.40%. Significant negative associations were observed between residing near a bus stop, outdoor gyms, safe places to walk during the day, and positive associations between garbage accumulation and/or open sewers and high crime rates and fear of falling. CONCLUSION: The association between self-perceived characteristics of built neighborhoods and fear of falling points to the need for improvements in urban infrastructure, especially public spaces, in order to reduce fear of falling in community-dwelling older adults.

Fatores associados ao uso clínico da Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde por fisioterapeutas: estudo survey exploratório / Factors associated with the clinical use of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health by physical therapists: an exploratory survey

Objetivo: Identificar os fatores contextuais (i.e., fatores pessoais e fatores relacionados ao trabalho) associados ao uso clínico da Classificação Internacional de Funcionalidade, Incapacidade e Saúde (CIF) por fisioterapeutas. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo exploratório do tipo survey. O questionário Barreiras pessoais e ambientais para implementação da CIF por fisioterapeutas" foi enviado aos fisioterapeutas do Espírito Santo, Brasil. Análise de regressão logística foi usada para explorar associações entre características pessoais e organizacionais com educação, atitudes, crenças, interesses, percepção de suporte e disponibilidade de recursos no ambiente de trabalho para uso da CIF na prática clínica. Resultados: A taxa de resposta para a maioria das análises foi 46% (n= 59). Seis características explicaram 35% da variação associada a interesses, atitudes e crenças para o uso da CIF (X²= 16.6, p= 0.01). Três características explicaram 24% da variação associada à educação para o uso da CIF (X²= 8.9, p= 0.03). Três características explicaram 61% da variação associada à percepção de suporte e disponibilidade de recursos para o uso da CIF (X²= 30.5, p<0.01). A barreira mais citada foi dificuldade ao aplicar a CIF para avaliar pacientes (62%). Conclusão: Os fisioterapeutas possuem atitudes positivas em relação ao uso da CIF, mas a grande maioria não recebeu formação acadêmica adequada e reporta auto-eficácia insuficiente para seu uso na prática clínica. É necessária a adoção de uma infraestrutura organizacional que endosse o uso clínico da CIF alinhada à modificação nos currículos de formação e capacitação continuada.

Objective: To identify the contextual factors (i.e., personal, and work-related factors) associated with the clinical use of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) by physical therapists. Method: A cross-sectional exploratory survey was carried out. The questionnaire Personal and environmental barriers for the implementation of the ICF by physical therapists was mailed to physical therapists living in Espírito Santo, Brazil. Logistic regression analysis was used to explore associations between personal and work-related characteristics with education, attitudes, beliefs, interest, and perception related to work resources for applying the ICF. Results: The response rate for most analyses was 46% (n= 59). Six characteristics explained 35% of the variance associated with interests, attitudes, and beliefs for the use of the ICF (X²= 16.6, p= 0.01). Three characteristics explained 24% of the variance associated with education for the use of ICF (X²= 8.9, p= 0.03). Three characteristics explained 61% of the variance associated with the perception of support and availability of resources for the use of the ICF (X²= 30.5, p<0.01). The most cited barrier was difficulty in applying the ICF for assessments of patients (62%). Conclusions: Physical therapists have positive attitudes towards the use of ICF, but most respondents did not receive satisfactory academic training and reported insufficient self-efficacy for using ICF in clinical practice. The adoption of an organizational infrastructure that endorses the clinical use of the ICF in association with an updated and continued education is required.

Predictors of walking speed in older people after stroke / Preditores da velocidade de marcha em idosos comunitários pós acidente vascular encefálico

Introdução: as medidas de desempenho da função física podem prever incidência futura de incapacidade, dependência em atividades de vida diária, institucionalização e morte em idosos após Acidente Vascular Encefálico. Embora existam estudos verificando o efeito da idade na velocidade de marcha e na incapacidade, ainda existem lacunas significativas na literatura com idosos após Acidente Vascular Encefálico. Objetivo: verificar quais são os possíveis preditores da velocidade de marcha em idosos após Acidente Vascular Encefá- lico. Métodos: estudo transversal, em que foi avaliada: velocidade de marcha (teste de caminhada de 10 metros ­ TC10m), força de flexores plantares e extensores de joelho do lado parético (Teste do Esfigmomanômetro Modificado ­ TEM), mobilidade (Time up and Go ­ TUG) e depressão (Escala de Depressão Geriátrica ­ GDS). Foi utilizada a regressão linear para verificar quais preditores explicariam a velocidade de marcha. Resultados: 60 indivíduos foram incluídos, idade média de 71 ± 7 anos, com TC10m de 0,7 ± 0,3 m/s, força de flexores plantares de 133 ± 66 mmHg e força de extensores de joelho de 198 ± 62 mmHg, TUG de 19 ± 10 s e GDS 6 ± 3 pontos. A força de flexores plantares do lado parético explicou 33% da variação da velocidade de marcha. Quando a mobilidade foi incluída, a variância aumentou para 43%. Conclusão: a força dos flexores plantares do lado parético e a mobilidade são preditores e influenciam diretamente a velocidade de marcha nos idosos após o Acidente Vascular Encefálico.(AU)

Introduction: performance-based measures of physical function can predict the future incidence of disability, dependence in activities of daily living, institutionalization, and death in older people after stroke. Although there have been previous studies examining the effect of age on walking speed and disability, significant gaps still exist in the literature with older people after stroke. Purpose: to verify the possible predictors of the walking speed in elderly individuals after stroke. Methods: cross-sectional study, where it was evaluated: walking speed (10-meter walking test ­ 10 MWT), plantar flexor and knee extensor strength of the paretic side (Modified Sphygmomanometer Test ­ MST), mobility (Time up and Go ­ TUG), and depression (Geri- atric Depression Scale ­ GDS). It was used linear regression to verify which predictors would explain the walking speed (α=0,05). Results:60 individuals were included with a mean age of 71±7 years, with 10MWT of 0.7±0.3m/s, plantar flexor strength of 133±66mmHg and knee extensor strength of 198±62mmHg, TUG of 19±10s, and GDS 6±3 points. The plantar flexor strength of the paretic side explained 33% of the variance of the walking speed. When mobility was included, variance increased to 43%. Conclusion: plantar flexors strength of the paretic side and mobility are predictors and have a direct influence on the walking speed in older people after stroke.(AU)

The effect of kinesiophobia in older people with acute low back pain: longitudinal data from Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE) / O efeito da cinesiofobia em idosos com dor lombar aguda: dados longitudinais do estudo Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE) / El efecto de la quinesofobia en personas mayores con dolor lumbar agudo: datos longitudinales de Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE)

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the course of low back pain (LBP) intensity over a period of 12 months in older people with and without kinesiophobia.This was an international multicenter study. LBP intensity was examined by using the Numerical Pain Scale at baseline and over five follow-up periods. The Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire was used to measure patients' beliefs and fears. The study included 532 older adults (non kinesiophobic = 227; kinesiophobic = 305). The individuals had moderate pain at baseline, with a significant difference observed between the groups. Participants showed a rapid improvement in the first 6 weeks, followed by minor improvements in the succeeding months. However, a significant difference between groups remained during the follow-up period. Independently, kinesiophobia is a significant prognostic factor. These findings suggest the importance of screening for psychosocial factors in the management of older patients with LBP. Practice implications: patients need to be warned that pain can be perpetuated by inappropriate avoidance behaviors that may later lead to disability.

Resumo: O estudo teve como objetivo investigar a evolução da intensidade da dor lombar (DL) ao longo de 12 meses em idosos com e sem cinesiofobia. Este foi um estudo multicêntrico internacional. A intensidade da DL foi avaliada com a Numerical Pain Scale na linha de base e ao longo de 5 períodos de seguimento. As crenças e os medos dos pacientes foram medidos com o Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. O estudo incluiu 532 idosos (sem cinesiofobia = 227; com cinesiofobia = 305). Os idosos apresentavam dor moderada na linha de base, com uma diferença significativa entre os grupos. Os participantes mostraram melhora rápida nas primeiras seis semanas, seguida por melhoras menores nos meses seguintes. Entretanto, persistiu uma diferença significativa entre os grupos durante o período de seguimento. A cinesiofobia é um fator prognóstico importante e independente. Os achados sugerem a importância da triagem de fatores psicossociais no manejo de pacientes idosos com DL. Implicações práticas: os pacientes devem ser advertidos que a dor pode ser perpetuada por comportamentos inadequados de evitação, podendo à incapacidade no longo prazo.

Resumen: El objetivo fue investigar el curso de la intensidad del dolor lumbar (LBP), durante un período de 12 meses, en personas ancianas con y sin quinesofobia. Se trata de un estudio multicéntrico internacional. La intensidad del LBP se evaluó usando la Escala Numérica de Dolor en una base de referencia y sobre 5 períodos de seguimiento. Con el fin de medir las creencias y temores de los pacientes, usamos el Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. El estudio incluyó a 532 ancianos (no quinesofóbicos = 227; quinesofóbicos = 305). Los ancianos sufrieron un dolor moderado en la base de referencia, con una significativa diferencia observada entre grupos. Los participantes mostraron una rápida mejora durante las 6 primeras semanas, seguidas por mejoras menores en los meses siguientes. No obstante, se mantuvo una diferencia significativa entre grupos durante el período de seguimiento. Independientemente, la quinesofobia es un factor pronóstico importante. Estos resultados sugieren la importancia de monitorear factores psicosociales en la gestión de pacientes ancianos con LBP. Implicaciones clínicas: los pacientes necesitan ser avisados de que el dolor puede perpetuarse por comportamientos inapropiados de prevención que quizás más tarde conduzcan a la discapacidad.

Impacto de um programa de fortalecimento muscular dos membros inferiores no equilíbrio e na performance funcional de idosos institucionalizados: um estudo controlado e randomizado / Impact of a muscle strengthening program for lower members on the balance and functional performance of institutionalized elderly: a controlled and randomized study

A performance funcional é maximizada através de programas de fortalecimento muscular em idosos. Contudo, poucas intervenções foram implementadas em idosos institucionalizados para avaliar os efeitos de programas de exercícios de fortalecimento muscular em desfechos como o equilíbrio, performance funcional e força muscular. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto de um programa de fortalecimento muscular de membros inferiores no equilíbrio, performance funcional e força muscular de idosos institucionalizados. Métodos: Ensaio clínico controlado e randomizado. O equilíbrio, a performance funcional e a força muscular foram avaliados através da Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg (EEB), Marcha Tandem (MT), Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) e Teste do Esfigmomanômetro (TE), respectivamente. O grupo experimental (GE, n=11) participou do programa de exercícios em grupo, três vezes semanais, durante oito semanas, enquanto o grupo controle (GC, n=8) continuou sua rotina habitual. Foram calculados os intervalos de 95% de confiança para as diferenças entre os grupos experimental e controle (experimental ­ controle) e entre os dois momentos de observação (pós ­ pré). Foi realizada análise de intenção de tratar. Resultados: O GE apresentou um ganho significativo em relação ao GC para a EEB (DM=3,7 IC95% 1,0 a 6,5), MT DM=3,5 IC95% 0,7 a 6,2), FMEJ (DM=33,2 IC95% 4,9 a 61,5) e FMD (DM=37,5 IC95% 9,6 a 65,3). Conclusão: O programa de fortalecimento muscular foi capaz de melhorar o equilíbrio, a performance funcional e a força muscular em idosos institucionalizados

Functional performance is maximized through muscle strengthening programs in the elderly. However, few interventions have been implemented in institutionalized elderly to assess the effects of muscle strengthening exercise programs in outcomes such as balance, functional performance and muscle strength. Objective: Assess the impact of a lower limb muscle strengthening program at the balance, functional performance and muscle strength of institutionalized elderly. Methods: Controlled, randomized clinical trial. Balance, functional performance and muscle strength were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BSE), Tandem Gait (MT), Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and Sphygmomanometer Test (TE) respectively. The experimental group (GE, n = 11) participated in the group exercise program, three times a week, for eight weeks, while the control group (CG, n = 8) continued their usual routine.The intervals of 95% confidence for the differences between the experimental and control groups (experimental - control) and between the two moments of observation (post - pre). Intent to treat analysis was performed. Results: EG showed a significant gain in relation to CG for BSE (DM = 3.7 IC95% 1.0 to 6.5), MT DM = 3.5 IC95% 0.7 to 6.2), FMEJ (DM = 33.2 95% CI 4.9 to 61.5) and FMD (DM = 37.5 95% CI 9.6 to 65.3). Conclusion: The muscle strengthening program was able to improve balance, functional performance and muscle strength in institutionalized elderly