Effects of Home-Based Exercise Programs on Mobility, Muscle Strength, Balance, and Gait in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Individual unsupervised home-based exercise programs can enhance muscle strength, physical function, gait, and balance in older adults. However, the effectiveness of such programs may be limited by the lack of supervision. This study aims to verify the effectiveness of individual unsupervised home-based programs, compare the effects of individual unsupervised home-based to supervised programs, and verify the influence of supervision over individual unsupervised home-based programs on the physical function of older adults. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed in four electronic databases, and the trials involved randomized controlled comparing the home-based programs to supervised, control groups, or home-based + supervised evaluating the muscle strength, physical function, gait, and balance in older adults. RESULTS: Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed no differences between home-based program versus supervised program in gait, mobility, and balance, revealing a trend of significance to supervised program on strength (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.27, p = .05). The analysis revealed effects in mobility (SMD = 0.40, p = .003), balance (SMD = 0.58, p = .0002), and muscle strength (SMD = 0.36, p = .02) favoring home-based program versus control group. Significant effects between home-based program versus home-based + supervised program were observed in balance (SMD = 0.74, p = .002) and muscle strength (SMD = 0.58, p = .01) in favor of home-based + supervised program. CONCLUSION: Home-based programs effectively improve older adults' physical function compared with control groups. However, supervised programs were more effective for muscle strength.

Comparison of the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index and the frailty phenotype for the identification of falls in older individuals: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Frailty increases the risk of falls, disability and death in older adults. The Cardiovascular Health Study identified a frailty phenotype (the Fried Phenotype) that was primarily based on physical domains. Instruments that incorporate additional domains (e.g., cognitive, disability or mood) may more accurately identify falls. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed i) to evaluate the association between falls and the number of phenotypes identified by the Fried Phenotype and CFVI-20 scores and ii) to compare the strength of the association between falls and each frailty instrument. METHODS: This study used the CFVI-20 and the Fried Phenotype and reported falls during the last twelve months. Logistic regression models, odds ratios (ORs), and ROC curves were used to identify associations and perform comparisons (p<0.05). The reporting of the study followed the Strobe guidelines. RESULTS: This study included 1,826 individuals (mean 70.9 (SD 7.3) years old). Prevalence of pre-frailty and low vulnerability was high (72% and 69%) and comparable between frailty instruments. The number of Fried phenotypes increased the odds of having fallen in the past 12 months (OR: 1.5 to 29.5) and the CFVI-20 scores (11% increase/unit change). The CFVI-20 identified falls more accurately than the Fried Phenotype (AUC: 0.68 vs. 0.60, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The number of phenotypes and the CFVI-20 scores were associated with falls; continuous scores identified falls more accurately than categorical classifications. The CFVI-20 was more strongly associated with falls in community-dwelling older adults than the Fried Phenotype.

Clinical-Functional Vulnerability, Functional Capacity, and Falls in Octogenarians with Different Physical Activity Levels-A Cross-Sectional Study.

AIM: To compare differences between frailty, functional capacity, and fall prevalence among community-dwelling oldest-old adults regarding their physical activity levels. METHODS: Two hundred and thirty-nine octogenarians (80+ years) were allocated according to their physical activity as insufficiently active (<150 min week-1; n = 98; 84.4 ± 3.7 years), active (150 to 300 min week-1, n = 81, 83.9 ± 3.1 years), and very active (>300 min week-1, n = 60; 83.8 ± 3.4 years). Frailty (CFVI-20 questionnaire), functional capacity (Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test, Timed Up and Go, Balance, and handgrip strength), fall history, and physical activity were assessed. RESULTS: The insufficiently active group was the frailest and presented the worst functional performance compared to the other groups. The fall prevalence was higher in the insufficiently active (60.9%) compared to the active (26.4%) and very active (12.7%) groups. CONCLUSIONS: The group of insufficiently active octogenarians showed the greatest frailty, worst functional capacity, and higher fall prevalence than the active and very active groups. The engagement in physical activity of at least 300 min week-1 is essential to reverse or minimize the deleterious effects of aging on frailty, functional capacity, and falls in octogenarians.

Association between Domains of the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index and Falls History in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objectives: The study aimed to determine which domains, sets, and isolated or combined questions of the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index (CFVI-20) are associated with falls history in older adults. Methods: Instruments used were the CFVI-20 assessment and reported falls during the last year. The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves identified the performance of the CFVI-20 domains and questions in identifying older adults with and without falls history, while logistic regression identified relevant questions to identify fall history. Results: This study included 1725 individuals (71.9 ± 7.3 years). The area under the curve (AUC) between the CFVI-20 and fall history was 0.69. The mobility domain presented the largest AUC (0.71; p < 0.01), and most isolated domains showed low AUCs (0.51 to 0.58). Isolated questions were limited to identifying fallers. The regression analysis identified 7 questions of the CFVI-20 with falls. Conclusions: The CFVI-20 general score identified older adults with a fall history. When considered in isolation, most domains were limited to identifying falls, except for the mobility domain. Combining the CFVI-20 questions enabled identification of fallers.

The effects of supervision on three different exercises modalities (supervised vs. home vs. supervised+home) in older adults: Randomized controlled trial protocol.

BACKGROUND: Multicomponent physical exercise programs are a viable strategy for treating physical decline resulting from the aging process in older populations and can be applied in supervised and home-based modalities. However, the magnitude of the intervention effects in terms of physical function development may vary according to the modalities application due to different supervision degrees. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to compare the effects of supervision in a multicomponent exercise program in different application modalities (supervised vs. home vs. supervised+home) in neuromuscular adaptations, muscle strength, gait, physical function, and quality of life, analyzing the differences between intensity, volume, and density of home and supervised sessions in community older adults. METHODS: This protocol is a randomized controlled clinical trial with a sample of 66 older adults divided into three groups: supervised exercise (SUP = 22), home-based exercise (HB = 22), and supervised plus home-based exercise (SUP+HB = 22). The multicomponent exercise program will last 12 weeks, three times per week, for 60 min per session and include warm-up, balance, muscle-strengthening, gait, and flexibility exercises. The study's primary outcomes will be neuromuscular function, composed of the assessment of muscle isokinetic strength, muscle architecture, and neuromuscular electrical activation. The secondary outcome will be physical function, usual and maximum gait speed with and without dual-task, and quality of life. All outcomes will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention (week 12). CONCLUSION: This study will be the first clinical trial to examine the effects of different supervision levels on home-based exercises compared to supervised protocols. The results of this study will be essentials for planning coherent and viable home-based programs for older adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials. Number RBR- 7MZ2KR. https://apps.who.int/trialsearch/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=RBR-7mz2kr.

Risk factors involved in adolescent obesity: an integrative review. / Os fatores de risco envolvidos na obesidade no adolescente: uma revisão integrativa.

The scope of this study was to examine the risk factors for the development of obesity in adolescence. The objective was to identify risk factors for adolescent obesity by means of an Integrative Review of the Literature. The PICO strategy was used to formulate the following central line of inquiry: What are the risk factors for the development of obesity during adolescence? The VHL and EBSCOhost research databases were consulted, resulting in a selection of 25 articles for in-depth study. The phenomenon of obesity was understood as the result of biological, social, psychological, and nutritional factors. The research revealed a lack of consensus on the risks and benefits, which makes evidence-based recommendations difficult. The study identified proposals that can be implemented, such as a change in eating habits, weight control and the practice of physical exercise. Such behavioral changes can be recommended within the context of the family, schools, and health services. The review recommends prevention strategies and the recognition of school as the ideal medium for health promotion through education. From a political and social standpoint, it is necessary to challenge the prevalence of publicity of the food industry that entices adolescents to consume processed foods with high fat and sugar content.

Os fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento da obesidade na adolescência constituem o objeto deste estudo. Por meio de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, buscou-se identificar os fatores de risco da obesidade nos adolescentes. Utilizou-se a estratégia PICO para se formular a seguinte pergunta norteadora: quais são os fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento da obesidade na adolescência? Os portais de pesquisa consultados foram: BVS e EBSCOhost, com o corpus do estudo ficando com 25 artigos. O fenômeno da obesidade foi entendido como resultante de fatores biológicos, sociais, psicológicos e nutricionais. Constatou-se que não existe um consenso sobre riscos e benefícios, o que dificulta recomendações de evidência. Foram identificadas, ainda, propostas passíveis de serem implementadas: a modificação de hábitos alimentares, o controle de peso e a prática de exercícios físicos. Tais modificações comportamentais podem ser recomendadas para os contextos familiares, escolares e dos serviços de saúde. A revisão recomenda estratégias de prevenção e pensar a escola como um espaço rico para promoção da saúde por intermédio da educação. Do ponto de vista político e social, é preciso enfrentar as propagandas da indústria alimentícia, que seduzem os adolescentes a consumirem alimentos processados e ricos em gordura e açúcar.

Os fatores de risco envolvidos na obesidade no adolescente: uma revisão integrativa / Risk factors involved in adolescent obesity: an integrative review

Resumo Os fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento da obesidade na adolescência constituem o objeto deste estudo. Por meio de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, buscou-se identificar os fatores de risco da obesidade nos adolescentes. Utilizou-se a estratégia PICO para se formular a seguinte pergunta norteadora: quais são os fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento da obesidade na adolescência? Os portais de pesquisa consultados foram: BVS e EBSCOhost, com o corpus do estudo ficando com 25 artigos. O fenômeno da obesidade foi entendido como resultante de fatores biológicos, sociais, psicológicos e nutricionais. Constatou-se que não existe um consenso sobre riscos e benefícios, o que dificulta recomendações de evidência. Foram identificadas, ainda, propostas passíveis de serem implementadas: a modificação de hábitos alimentares, o controle de peso e a prática de exercícios físicos. Tais modificações comportamentais podem ser recomendadas para os contextos familiares, escolares e dos serviços de saúde. A revisão recomenda estratégias de prevenção e pensar a escola como um espaço rico para promoção da saúde por intermédio da educação. Do ponto de vista político e social, é preciso enfrentar as propagandas da indústria alimentícia, que seduzem os adolescentes a consumirem alimentos processados e ricos em gordura e açúcar.

Abstract The scope of this study was to examine the risk factors for the development of obesity in adolescence. The objective was to identify risk factors for adolescent obesity by means of an Integrative Review of the Literature. The PICO strategy was used to formulate the following central line of inquiry: What are the risk factors for the development of obesity during adolescence? The VHL and EBSCOhost research databases were consulted, resulting in a selection of 25 articles for in-depth study. The phenomenon of obesity was understood as the result of biological, social, psychological, and nutritional factors. The research revealed a lack of consensus on the risks and benefits, which makes evidence-based recommendations difficult. The study identified proposals that can be implemented, such as a change in eating habits, weight control and the practice of physical exercise. Such behavioral changes can be recommended within the context of the family, schools, and health services. The review recommends prevention strategies and the recognition of school as the ideal medium for health promotion through education. From a political and social standpoint, it is necessary to challenge the prevalence of publicity of the food industry that entices adolescents to consume processed foods with high fat and sugar content.

Transition to exclusive palliative care for women with breast cancer.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the perspectives that affect the transition to exclusive palliative care for women with breast cancer. METHODS: qualitative, descriptive study, carried out in a public health institution in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, between December 2018 and May 2019. 28 health professionals were interviewed. Content analysis was used in the thematic modality. RESULTS: the operational difficulties were linked to the fragmented physical structure, the late and unplanned nature of the referral, the ineffective communication, and the deficit of human resources. In general, women and family members resist referral because they do not know palliative care. There is no consensus among oncologists on the most appropriate time to stop systemic therapy for disease control. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: the perceived difficulties configure an abrupt referral, accompanied by false hopes and, often, limited to end-of-life care.

Kinematic Variables of Disabled Swimmers and Their Correlation With the International Paralympic Committee Classification.

This study described the kinematic variables of disabled swimmers' performance and correlated them with their functional classification. Twenty-one impaired swimmers (S5-S10) performed 50-m maximum front-crawl swimming while being recorded by four underwater cameras. Swimming velocity, stroke rate, stroke length, intracycle velocity variation, stroke dimensions, hand velocity, and coordination index were analyzed. Kendall rank was used to correlate stroke parameters and functional classification with p < .05. Swimming velocity, stroke length, and submerged phase were positively correlated with the para swimmers functional classification (.61, .50, and .41; p < .05, respectively), while stroke rate, velocity hand for each phase, coordination index, and intracyclic velocity variation were not (τ between -.11 and .45; p > .05). Thus, some objective kinematic variables of the impaired swimmers help to support current classification. Improving hand velocity seems to be a crucial point to be improved among disabled swimmers.

Can Age Influence Functional Tests Differently to Predict Falls in Nursing Home and Community-Dwelling Older Adults?

Aim: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine which functional tests are able to predict falls in nursing home residents (NHR) and community-dwelling (CDW) older adults grouped by age. Methods: Two hundred and fifty-two older adults were assessed in the following tests, Mini-Mental State Examination, anthropometric characteristics, fall history and functional tests. The participants were assigned to one of the following groups: Young Older Adults (YOA; 60-69 years, n = 102; 27.5% NHR), Old Older Adults (OOA; 70-79 years; n = 100; 23.5% NHR) and Very Older Adults (VOA, ≥80 years; n = 50; 52% NHR). Results: The five times sit-to-stand showed 1.41 odds to experience a fall in the NHR of the VOA. In the CDW, the handgrip strength score decreased the odds to fall occurrence (0.92 odds) in the YOA, while the low score in timed up and go test of the OOA showed 1.21 odds to experience a fall. Conclusions: Therefore, the five times sit-to-stand test can predict falls in NHR of VOA groups, while handgrip strength and timed up and go tests can predict falls in CDW of YOA and OOA groups, respectively.

Does Home-Based Exercise Improve the Physical Function of Prefrail Older Women?

Physical exercise is a potential intervention to revert or attenuate frailty syndrome, which may be accomplished by traditional center-based and home-based programs. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a home-based and center-based exercise program on frailty status, physical and muscle function of frail older women. Thirty-one frail older women were allocated in two different groups: home-based group (n = 17, 71.5 ± 6.5 years) or center-based group (n = 14, 68.4 ± 6.4 years). The exercise program lasted 12 weeks (3 days/week), 60 minutes/session, including strengthening, balance, and gait exercises. Frailty status, knee, and hip strength, and physical function were assessed before and after the intervention. After the exercise program, frailty was reversed in 76% of the participants independently of the exercise group. Muscle strength and physical function improved in both groups, where the home-based program presented a high adherence rate, and the center-based program was more suitable to reverse the frailty status. In conclusion, a home-based exercise program is as effective as center based to improve strength, physical function, and to reverse frailty status.

Perceptive-Cognitive and Physical Function in Prefrail Older Adults: Exergaming Versus Traditional Multicomponent Training.

Research highlights the benefits of regular traditional multicomponent training in older adults. The potential effect of exergames on perceptive-cognitive and physical function in prefrail older adults is still little explored. The study aimed to compare the effects of two physical exercise training programs (exergaming vs. traditional multicomponent) on perceptive-cognitive and physical functions of prefrail older adults. This study was a randomized controlled trial having 66 prefrail older adults assigned to two groups (exergame group [EG]: n = 32, 70.84 ± 4.53 years; multicomponent group [MG]: n = 34, 70.76 ± 5.60 years). Frailty phenotype, fall history, basic and advanced cognition, perceptual, physical (mobility, gait speed, and balance), and muscle (strength and power) functions were evaluated. Intervention was conducted during 12 weeks. The EG and MG performed similar exercise routines involving the main lower limb muscle groups required in daily activities. A mixed model analysis of variance (ANOVA) and effect size (d) revealed that both programs were effective in postponing frailty status, reducing the fear of falling (EG: d = 1.65; MG: d = 1.40), increasing fall risk awareness (EG: d = 2.14; MG: d = 1.60), improving cognitive status (EG: d = 0.83-2.61; MG: d = 0.86-1.43), muscle (EG: d = 0.54; MG: d = 0.51-0.73), and physical function (EG: d = 0.97-1.55; MG: d = 1.01-2.23). The exergame training might be a better alternative to improve cognition, whereas the multicomponent program may be a better option to provide physical function gains.

A high-intensity interval training program in aquatic environment (hiitaq) for obese adolescents / Programa de treinamento intervalado de alta intensidade no ambiente aquático (hiitaq) em adolescentes obesos

ABSTRACT The increased prevalence of obesity has endangered the health of Brazilian adolescents. Regular physical activity and lifestyle changes are recommended as prevention and treatment. However, there is no consensus on the dose-response of training programs. This study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of a high-intensity interval training program in aquatic environment (HIITAQ) on physical fitness and cardiometabolic risk factors in obese teenagers. The sample consisted of 18 adolescents of both sexes, aged 12 to 17 years, diagnosed with obesity. Anthropometric variables, physical fitness, blood glucose, and lipid profile were evaluated before and after 12 weeks of training. The program consisted of two sets of 4-8 repetitions for 30 seconds (85%-95% of maximal heart rate) and 60 seconds of active rest interval. After applying the program, a reduction in body mass index was seen, that is, BMI z-score (p <0.01), as well as a reduction of Total Cholesterol, TC (p <0.01), and LDL (p <0.01). There was an increase in basal metabolic rate (p <0.01) and peak VO2 (p <0.01). No differences were seen after the training with regard to fat percentage, body mass index (BMI) waist/height ratio (WHtR), fasting blood glucose, insulin, and HDL-c (p>0.05). The high-intensity training program in aquatic environment was effective in reducing cardiometabolic risk factors.

RESUMO A saúde de adolescentes brasileiros tem sido comprometida pelo aumento da prevalência da obesidade. A prática de exercício físico regular e modificações no estilo de vida são ações recomendadas como prevenção e tratamento. No entanto, não há consenso quanto à dose resposta dos programas de exercícios. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a efetividade de um programa de treinamento intervalado de alta intensidade no ambiente aquático (HIITAQ) na aptidão física e fatores de risco cardiometabólicos em adolescentes obesos. A amostra foi composta por 18 adolescentes de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 12 e 17 anos, com diagnóstico de obesidade. Foram avaliadas, variáveis antropométricas, aptidão física, glicemia e perfil lipídico, antes e após 12 semanas de treinamento. O programa foi composto por duas séries de 4 a 8 repetições com 30 segundos de duração (80-95% da frequência cardíaca máxima) por 60 segundos de recuperação ativa. Após o programa de exercícios verificou-se redução do índice de massa corporal escore z IMCz (p< 0,01), do Colesterol Total (p< 0,01) e LDL-c (p< 0,01). Houve aumento da taxa metabólica basal (p< 0,01) e do VO2 pico (p< 0,01). Não foram observadas diferenças após o treinamento no percentual de gordura, índice de massa corporal, IMC, relação cintura/estatura RCEst, glicemia em jejum, insulina e HDL-c (p>0,05). O programa de treinamento de alta intensidade no meio aquático foi efetivo na redução de fatores de risco cardiometabólicos.

Transition to exclusive palliative care for women with breast cancer / Transición para el cuidado paliativo exclusivo de mujeres con cancer / Transição para o cuidado paliativo exclusivo de mulheres com câncer de mama

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the perspectives that affect the transition to exclusive palliative care for women with breast cancer. Methods: qualitative, descriptive study, carried out in a public health institution in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, between December 2018 and May 2019. 28 health professionals were interviewed. Content analysis was used in the thematic modality. Results: the operational difficulties were linked to the fragmented physical structure, the late and unplanned nature of the referral, the ineffective communication, and the deficit of human resources. In general, women and family members resist referral because they do not know palliative care. There is no consensus among oncologists on the most appropriate time to stop systemic therapy for disease control. Final considerations: the perceived difficulties configure an abrupt referral, accompanied by false hopes and, often, limited to end-of-life care.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar las perspectivas que tocan el proceso de transición al cuidado paliativo exclusivo de mujeres con cáncer de mama. Métodos: estudio cualitativo, descriptivo, realizado en institución de salud pública en Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, entre diciembre de 2018 y mayo de 2019. Fueron entrevistados 28 profesionales de salud. Utilizó el análisis de contenido en la modalidad temático. Resultados: las dificultades operacionales atraillaron a la estructura física fragmentada, al carácter tardío y no planeado del encaminamiento, a la comunicación ineficaz y déficit de recursos humanos. En general, mujeres y familiares resisten al encaminamiento por no conocieren el cuidado paliativo. No hay consenso de los oncólogos acerca del momento más adecuado para interrumpir la terapia sistémica al control de la enfermedad. Consideraciones finales: las dificultades percibidas configuran el encaminamiento abrupto, acompañado de falsas esperanzas y, muchas veces, limitado a los cuidados en el fin de la vida.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as perspectivas que tangenciam o processo de transição para o cuidado paliativo exclusivo de mulheres com câncer de mama. Métodos: estudo qualitativo, descritivo, realizado em instituição de saúde pública no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, entre dezembro de 2018 e maio de 2019. Foram entrevistados 28 profissionais de saúde. Utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo na modalidade temática. Resultados: as dificuldades operacionais atrelaram-se à estrutura física fragmentada, ao caráter tardio e não planejado do encaminhamento, à comunicação ineficaz e déficit de recursos humanos. Em geral, mulheres e familiares resistem ao encaminhamento por não conhecerem o cuidado paliativo. Não há consenso dos oncologistas sobre o momento mais adequado para interromper a terapia sistêmica para controle da doença. Considerações finais: as dificuldades percebidas configuram o encaminhamento abrupto, acompanhado de falsas esperanças e, muitas vezes, limitado aos cuidados no fim da vida.

Associação entre cognição, velocidade da marcha e habilitação veicular em idosos / Relación entre cognición, velocidad de la marcha y licencia de conducir en adultos mayores / Association between cognition, gait speed and vehicle habilitation in elderly people

Resumo Objetivo: Investigar a associação entre cognição, velocidade da marcha e resultado final da habilitação veicular de idosos candidatos à Carteira Nacional de Habilitação. Métodos: Estudo quantitativo de corte transversal desenvolvido em 12 clínicas de trânsito de Curitiba/Paraná/Brasil. A amostra do tipo probabilística foi constituída por 421 idosos (≥ 60 anos). Para a coleta de dados foram aplicados o Mini-Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM), teste de velocidade da marcha e realizadas consultas ao formulário Registro Nacional de Condutores Habilitados. A relação entre as variáveis foi identificada por meio do teste de regressão linear múltipla, método stepwise, utilizando-se o programa estatístico R versão 3.4.0. Resultados: Observou-se que, ao aumentar o escore no MEEM em uma unidade a chance do idoso ser considerado inapto temporariamente para dirigir diminui em 54,96% (95%; IC 28,47% - 92,69%; p<0,0001), e ao aumentar uma unidade no escore do MEEM houve um aumento na velocidade da marcha (VM) de 0,0091 (95%; IC 0,0005 - 0,0174; p=0,0366). Conclusão: O elevado escore no MEEM diminuiu a probabilidade do idoso ser considerado inapto temporariamente para dirigir veículos automotores e houve uma tendência de aumento da VM com o aumento dos escores do MEEM. A VM é um importante indicador a ser avaliado em idosos motoristas, logo, é um tópico a ser incluído nas avaliações das clínicas de trânsito, assim como o rastreamento cognitivo, fundamental para avaliar um conjunto de atividades mentais necessárias à direção veicular segura.

Resumen Objetivo: Investigar la relación entre cognición, velocidad de la marcha y obtención del permiso de conducir en adultos mayores que tramitan la licencia de conducir. Métodos: Estudio cuantitativo de corte transversal llevado a cabo en 12 centros médicos de evaluación de tránsito de Curitiba, estado de Paraná, Brasil. La muestra probabilística fue formada por 421 adultos mayores (≥ 60 años). Para la recolección de datos se aplicó el Mini Examen del Estado Mental (MEEM), la prueba de velocidad de la marcha y se realizaron consultas al formulario del Registro Nacional de Conductores Habilitados. La relación entre las variables fue identificada mediante la prueba de regresión lineal múltiple, método stepwise, con el programa de estadística R versión 3.4.0. Resultados: Se observó que, al aumentar la puntuación del MEEM una unidad, la probabilidad de que el adulto mayor sea considerado no apto temporalmente para conducir se redujo un 54,96 % (95 %; IC 28,47 % - 92,69 %; p<0,0001), y al aumentar una unidad la puntuación del MEEM, hubo un aumento en la velocidad de la marcha (VM) de 0,0091 (95 %; IC 0,0005 - 0,0174; p=0,0366). Conclusión: La puntuación del MEEM elevada redujo la probabilidad de que el adulto mayor sea considerado no apto temporalmente para conducir automóviles y hubo una tendencia de aumento de la VM con un aumento de la puntuación del MEEM. La VM es un indicador importante que debe ser evaluado en adultos mayores conductores. Por lo tanto, es un tema que deberá ser incluido en las evaluaciones de los centros médicos de evaluación de tránsito, así como también el rastreo cognitivo, fundamental para analizar un conjunto de actividades mentales necesarias para una conducción vehicular segura.

Abstract Objective: To investigate the association between cognition, gait speed and the result of vehicle habilitation of elderly candidates for the National Driver's License. Methods: Quantitative cross-sectional study developed in 12 traffic agencies in Curitiba, state of Paraná, Brazil. The probabilistic sample consisted of 421 elderly people (≥ 60 years). The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), gait speed testing and consultations to forms of the National Qualified Drivers Registration were used for data collection. The relationship between variables was identified through the multiple linear regression test, stepwise method, using the statistical program R, version 3.4.0. Results: When increasing a unit in the MMSE score, the chance of the elderly person being considered as temporarily unfit to drive decreased by 54.96% (95% CI; 28.47% - 92.69%I; p<0.0001). When increasing a unit in the MMSE score, there was an increase in gait speed (GS) of 0.0091 (95% CI: 0.0005 - 0.0174; p=0.0366). Conclusion: The high MMSE score decreased the probability of the elderly participant being considered temporarily unfit to drive motor vehicles. There was a trend of higher GS with the increase in MMSE scores. As GS is an important indicator to be assessed in elderly drivers, this topic should be included in evaluations of traffic agencies, as well as cognitive screening, which is essential to assess a set of mental activities necessary for safe driving.

Muscle function, physical function, and gait in older women with and without knee osteoarthritis

Abstract Aim: To compare muscle function of knee extensors, gait parameters, and physical function in older women with and without knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and to associate these parameters to the KOA incidence in this population. Methods: Sixteen older women with KOA (66.9 ± 5.5 years; 74.9 ± 10.0 kg; 157.9 ± 0.9 cm; 30.2 ± 5.0 kg/m2) and fourteen healthy counterparts (control group: CG; 68.8 ± 5.8 years; 68.9 ± 10.5 kg; 158 ± 0.06 cm; 27.4 ± 4.0 kg/m2) participated in this study. Muscle function, physical function, and gait parameters were evaluated in both groups. The Western Ontario and McMaster Index (WOMAC) questionnaire was answered only by the KOA group. A correlation was performed to verify if KOA incidence was associated with muscle function, physical function, and gait parameters. Results: KOA group showed lower peak torque at 60°/s (30%; p = 0.003) and 180°/s (37%; p < 0.001), greater acceleration time at 60°/s (382%; p < 0.001), lower cadence (12.2%; p = 0.002), slower gait speed (19.5%; p < 0.001) and greater stride time (12.5%; p = 0.001) than CG group. However, there was no difference between groups in physical function (p < 0.0045). The KOA incidence presented a negative correlation with peak torque (rho = −0.602; p < 0.001), cadence (rho = −0.533; p = 0.002), gait speed (rho = −0.633; p < 0.001), stride length (rho = −0.517; p = 0.003) and a positive correlation with stride time (rho = 0.533; p = 0.002) and acceleration time (rho = 0.655; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that knee osteoarthritis may impair the function of the knee extensors muscles and gait parameters. An association between the ability to produce force rapidly and gait speed with the KOA incidence in older women was also observed.

Interação social de puérperas com procedimentos invasivos no parto / The social interaction of puerperal women towards invasive childbirth procedures / La interacción social de puérperas hacia los procedimientos invasivos en el part

Objetivo: apresentar modelo representativo da interação social de puérperas com procedimentos invasivos durante o trabalho de parto, a partir dos significados por elas atribuídos. Método: estudo interpretativo, qualitativo, realizada em maternidade pública do Rio de Janeiro. Foram entrevistadas 12 puérperas, de 18 a 45 anos, divididas em 3 grupos amostrais. Dados analisados segundo o Interacionismo Simbólico e a Grounded Theory. Resultados: procedimentos invasivos significam tudo que foge ao curso natural do parto ou viole. Entrando na situação, as mulheres sentem-se desconfortáveis com situações fisiológicas do parto. Confiando no profissional, submetem-se a procedimentos considerando-os necessários ao nascimento do bebê. Conclusão: o modelo representativo aponta que as mulheres se submetem a procedimentos invasivos sem considerá-los invasivos. É necessário criar estratégias que permitam à mulher compreender e tomar decisões sobre seu próprio corpo, bem como estimular a atuação de enfermeiras obstétricas para o cuidado à mulher com base na não invasão.

Objective: to present a representative model of puerperal women's social interaction with invasive childbirth procedures, based on the meanings they attribute to them. Method: this interpretative, qualitative study was conducted at a public maternity hospital in Rio de Janeiro by interview of 12 puerperal women in three sample groups. Data were analyzed in accordance with Symbolic interactionism and Grounded Theory. Results: an invasive procedure is anything that lies outside or violates the natural course of childbirth. Women in labor feel uncomfortable with the physiological situations of childbirth. Trusting in the care professional, they submit to procedures that they consider necessary to their baby's birth. Conclusion: the representative model shows that women submit to invasive procedures, not considering them invasive. Strategies must be developed to permit women to understand and decide on their own bodies, and to encourage obstetric nurses to provide women's care based on non-invasive procedures.

Objetivo: presentar un modelo representativo de la interacción social de las puérperas con los procedimientos invasivos de parto, a partir de los significados que les atribuyen. Método: este estudio interpretativo, cualitativo, se realizó en una maternidad pública de Río de Janeiro mediante entrevista a 12 puérperas en tres grupos de muestra. Los datos se analizaron de acuerdo con el interaccionismo simbólico y la teoría fundamentada. Resultados: un procedimiento invasivo es todo aquello que se encuentra fuera o viola el curso natural del parto. Las mujeres en trabajo de parto se sienten incómodas con las situaciones fisiológicas del parto. Confiando en el profesional asistencial, se someten a los procedimientos que consideran necesarios para el nacimiento de su bebé. Conclusión: el modelo representativo muestra que las mujeres se someten a procedimientos invasivos, no considerándolos invasivos. Se deben desarrollar estrategias para permitir que las mujeres comprendan y decidan sobre su propio cuerpo, y para alentar a las enfermeras obstétricas a brindar atención a las mujeres con base en procedimientos no invasivos.

Multicomponent Exercise Training Improves Gait Ability of Older Women Rather than Strength Training: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of multicomponent and strength training programs on dynamic balance, functional capacity, and gait ability in older women. METHODS: Thirty individuals (67 ± 4.3 years; 30.6 ± 3.9 kg/m2) were trained for 12 weeks (3 times per week), following multicomponent (MG: exercises focusing on agility, balance, muscle strength, and aerobic) and strength programs (SG: lower limbs strength exercise). RESULTS: Peak torque of hip flexors (p=0.020) and extensors (p=0.009) and knee flexors (p=0.001) of SG was greater than that of MG at posttraining. In addition, both groups increased peak torque of knee extensors (p=0.002) and plantar extensors with higher effect size for SG (d = -0.41 and -0.48), whereas MG presented higher effect size for plantar flexors muscles (d = -0.55). Only the SG improved the rate of torque development of knee extensors (29%; p=0.002), and this variable was also greater to SG than MG at posttraining (106%). The SG and MG improved dynamic balance although SG presented higher effect size (d = 0.61). Both groups improved the performance on 30 s sit to stand test (p=0.010) with higher effect size for MG (d = -0.54). Only the MG improved the stride length (4%; p=0.011) and gait speed (10%; p=0.024). In addition, the groups improved toe clearance (p=0.035) and heel contact (p=0.010) with higher effect sizes for MG (d = -0.066 and 1.07). CONCLUSION: Strength training should be considered to increase muscle function and dynamic balance in older women, whereas multicomponent training should be considered to increase functional capacity and gait ability in this population.

Frailty prevalence and related factors in older adults from southern Brazil: A cross-sectional observational study.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of frailty and the association of sociodemographic characteristics, clinical aspects, and functional capacity with the frailty status of community-dwelling older adults from Curitiba, Southern Brazil. METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study included 1,716 participants aged ≥60 years. Frailty was assessed using the Fried phenotype indicators of weakness, exhaustion, low activity, slowness, and weight loss. Sociodemographic characteristics, clinical aspects, and functional capacity and functionality were evaluated and compared between the sexes and the different frailty statuses (non-frail, prefrail, and frail). Multinomial logistic regression models were used to identify associations (p<0.05). RESULTS: A high prevalence of frailty (15.8%) and prefrailty (65.3%) were observed, and both were higher in female than in male individuals. The most predominant frailty criterion was weakness, followed by exhaustion. Compared with the non-frail elderly, the prefrail and frail elderly were older in age and presented more health problems, greater dependency for basic and instrumental activities of daily living, and reduced lower extremity strength performance and functional mobility. The highest proportion of illiterate individuals, individuals with 1-4 years of education, widowed individuals, polypharmacy, and possible cognition problems and diseases were seen in the frail elderly group. Moreover, the risk of being prefrail and frail was higher in those who were older and had more health problems, higher body mass index, and reduced lower extremity strength performance. Greater calf circumference and independence in activities of daily living were protective factors for prefrailty and frailty. Furthermore, lower functional mobility increased the chances of being frail. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of frailty was more pronounced in female than in male individuals, mainly because of a decline in force. Prefrailty was 4 times more prevalent than frailty, and the presence of health problems and reduced functional capacity increased the chances of being prefrail and frail.

Static and dynamic postural control: Comparison between community old adults and people with Parkinson's disease.

AIMS: To compare the static and dynamic postural control of people with Parkinson's disease and community old adults. METHODS: Thirty-five people were in the Parkinson's disease group (PDG; 12 women, 62.4 ± 11.0 years, 77.9 ± 15.6 kg, 166.5 ± 11.0 cm, 27.9 ± 3.8 kg/m2 , 1.9 ± 0.5 Hoehn & Yahr) and 32 were in the old adults group (OAG; 13 women, 69.5 ± 6.0 years, 74.2 ± 12.3 kg, 165.0 ± 8.3 cm, 27.2 ± 4.0 kg/m2 ). The static balance was measured on a force platform, three 30-s trials in four conditions: feet side-by-side (FSBS) and semi-tandem stance (ST) positioning, eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC). The total sway path length (SPL), sway area (SA), anterior-posterior (APSR) and medial-lateral (MLSR) sway range of the centre of pressure were obtained. Dynamic balance was assessed using the timed-up-and-go test (TUG). For comparison between groups and repeated-measures, a mixed-design ANOVA was carried out and the Mann-Whitney U test to compare TUG between groups. The significance level was set at p ≤ .05. RESULTS: Between groups, PDG presented higher mean values for SPL, APSR and SA in feet side-by-side eyes open compared to the OAG, for SPL in feet side-by-side eyes closed, for SPL and SA in STEO. For repeated-measures, both groups had higher mean values in the EC condition compared to EO and MLSR compared to APSR. No significant difference was found between groups for TUG. CONCLUSION: Balance disorders are found early in people with Parkinson's disease compared to healthy older adults. Thus, Parkinson's disease seems to advance the process of alterations in the postural control system.