Translation and cultural adaptation of the Positive Aspects of Caregiving Scale for caregivers of people living with dementia in Brazilian context: a methodological study.

BACKGROUND: The Positive Aspects of Caregiving (PAC) scale is used to assess psychosocial benefits provided to caregivers by the task of caring. The PAC scale consists of nine items, assessed using a five-point Likert scale, with higher values indicating greater positive perceptions and gains from the caregiving experience. OBJECTIVE: To translate and culturally adapt the PAC scale for informal Brazilian caregivers of people with dementia. DESIGN AND SETTING: A methodological study was conducted at the Federal University of São Carlos. METHODS: The following stages were carried out: Translation; Synthesis of the translations; Back-translation; Evaluation by an experts' committee; and Pre-test. RESULTS: Two independent professionals translated the PAC scale. The consensus version was obtained by merging both translations, which were back-translated into English by a third translator. The expert committee comprised three specialists in the area and project researchers. All scale items presented a Content Validity Index of 1 (CVI = 1.0), and thus remained in the pre-final version of the instrument. The instrument was pre-tested with seven caregivers of people with dementia, the majority of whom were women (57.1%), with a degree of kinship corresponding to sons/daughters (57.1%) and an average age of 55.2 (± 4.1) years. The caregivers considered it clear and understandable and made no suggestions for changes. CONCLUSION: The PAC scale was translated and culturally adapted for use by informal caregivers of people with dementia in Brazil. However, a psychometric analysis of the instrument is necessary to provide normative data for this population group.

Translation and cultural adaptation of the Positive Aspects of Caregiving Scale for caregivers of people living with dementia in Brazilian context: a methodological study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The Positive Aspects of Caregiving (PAC) scale is used to assess psychosocial benefits provided to caregivers by the task of caring. The PAC scale consists of nine items, assessed using a five-point Likert scale, with higher values indicating greater positive perceptions and gains from the caregiving experience. OBJECTIVE: To translate and culturally adapt the PAC scale for informal Brazilian caregivers of people with dementia. DESIGN AND SETTING: A methodological study was conducted at the Federal University of São Carlos. METHODS: The following stages were carried out: Translation; Synthesis of the translations; Back-translation; Evaluation by an experts' committee; and Pre-test. RESULTS: Two independent professionals translated the PAC scale. The consensus version was obtained by merging both translations, which were back-translated into English by a third translator. The expert committee comprised three specialists in the area and project researchers. All scale items presented a Content Validity Index of 1 (CVI = 1.0), and thus remained in the pre-final version of the instrument. The instrument was pre-tested with seven caregivers of people with dementia, the majority of whom were women (57.1%), with a degree of kinship corresponding to sons/daughters (57.1%) and an average age of 55.2 (± 4.1) years. The caregivers considered it clear and understandable and made no suggestions for changes. CONCLUSION: The PAC scale was translated and culturally adapted for use by informal caregivers of people with dementia in Brazil. However, a psychometric analysis of the instrument is necessary to provide normative data for this population group.

Efficacy of iSupport-Brasil for unpaid caregivers of people living with dementia: protocol for a randomized and controlled clinical trial.

Unpaid caregivers of people living with dementia tend to suffer mental health problems as a result of the negative effects associated with the care tasks. Thus, psychosocial interventions for this population group are necessary. iSupport is an online support program for caregivers that was created by the World Health Organization. Objective: To describe the design of a randomized clinical trial to measure the efficacy of the iSupport-Brasil version on caregivers' mental health and well-being. Methods: The participants will be randomized into Intervention Group (IG) (n=195) and Control Group (CG) (n=195). For three months, the IG will access the iSupport-Brasil platform, the CG will enter the electronic page of the Brazilian Alzheimer's Association, and both groups will be emailed the preliminary version of the "Guia de cuidados para a pessoa idosa" e-book (a guide to providing care to the elderly) from the Ministry of Health. The data will be collected at three moments: baseline, and three and six months after the beginning of the intervention. Results: It is expected that it will be possible to provide diverse validity evidence about iSupport-Brasil as an online and free intervention alternative, as a preventive means and as a way to promote mental health among caregivers of people living with dementia. Conclusion: Through the evaluation protocol of this randomized clinical trial on the effects of the iSupport-Brasil program, it may become a reference for countries that plan to adapt and improve the iSupport program using digital health solutions.

Cuidadores informais de pessoas que vivem com demência tendem a sofrer problemas de saúde mental como resultado dos efeitos negativos associados às tarefas de cuidado. Assim, intervenções psicossociais para essa população são necessárias. O iSupport é um programa de apoio online para cuidadores criado pela Organização Mundial da Saúde. Objetivo: Descrever o desenho de um ensaio clínico randomizado para medir a eficácia da versão iSupport-Brasil na saúde mental e no bem-estar de cuidadores. Métodos: Os participantes serão randomizados em Grupo Intervenção (GI) (n=195) e Grupo Controle (GC) (n=195). Durante três meses, o GI acessará a plataforma iSupport-Brasil, o CG entrará na página eletrônica da Associação Brasileira de Alzheimer e ambos os grupos receberão por e-mail a versão preliminar do e-book Guia de cuidados para a pessoa idosa, do Ministério da Saúde. Os dados serão coletados em três momentos: linha de base, três e seis meses após o início da intervenção. Resultados: Espera-se que seja possível fornecer diversas evidências sobre os efeitos do iSupport-Brasil como alternativa de intervenção online e gratuita, de forma a promover a saúde mental entre os cuidadores de pessoas que vivem com demência. Conclusão: O protocolo de avaliação deste ensaio clínico randomizado sobre os efeitos do programa iSupport-Brasil pode se tornar uma referência para os países que planejam adaptar e melhorar esta intervenção, usando soluções digitais de saúde.

A sobrecarga de cuidadores: como as características de idosos e seus cuidadores se articulam / The burden of caregivers: how the characteristics of the elderly and their caregivers articulate / La sobrecarga de los cuidadores: cómo se articulan las características de los ancianos y sus cuidadores

Objetivo: analisar a associação entre as características de idosos e cuidadores e seus impactos na sobrecarga dos cuidadores. Método: em 2021, foram avaliados 50 pares de cuidadores informais e idosos pelo perfil sociodemográfico, de saúde, Escala Hospitalar de Ansiedade e Depressão (HADS), Entrevista de Sobrecarga de Zarit-Brief (ZBI-12) e informações sobre grau de dependência dos idosos para atividades básicas e instrumentais (ABVD e AIVD). Modelos de regressão avaliaram os escores ZBI-12 e HADS em função das características dos cuidadores e idosos assistidos. O protocolo de pesquisa foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: alta morbidade e dependência para ABVD foram significativamente associadas a maiores níveis de sobrecarga do cuidador. Essas características perderam significância quando ajustado o modelo por idade do cuidador, tempo que presta o cuidado e convivência com o idoso. Conclusão: esses resultados revelam a necessidade de intervenções para garantir suporte aos cuidadores quanto a diminuição da sobrecarga relacionada ao cuidado.

Objective: to analyze the association between the characteristics of elderly people and caregivers and their impact on caregiver burden. Method: in 2021, 50 pairs of informal caregivers and their elderly were evaluated through the sociodemographic and health profile, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Zarit-Brief Burden Interview (ZBI-12), and information on the degree of dependence of the elderly for basic and instrumental activities (BADL and IADL). Regression models evaluated ZBI-12 and HADS scores as a function of characteristics of caregivers and assisted elderly. The research protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: high morbidity and BADL dependence were significantly associated with higher levels of caregiver burden. These characteristics lost significance when we adjusted the model for the caregiver's age, time that provides care, and living with the elderly. Conclusion: these results reveal the need for interventions to guarantee support for caregivers in terms of reducing the burden related to the care.

Objetivo: analizar la asociación entre las características de ancianos y sus cuidadores y el correspondiente impacto en la sobrecarga de los cuidadores. Método: en 2021, se evaluaron 50 pares de cuidadores informales y sus ancianos a través del perfil sociodemográfico, de salud, Escala de Ansiedad y Depresión Hospitalaria (HADS), Escala de Zarit Reducida para la Sobrecarga (ZBI-12) e información sobre el grado de dependencia de los ancianos respecto a actividades básicas e instrumentales (ABVD y AIVD). Modelos de regresión evaluaron las puntuaciones de ZBI-12 y HADS en función de las características de los cuidadores y ancianos asistidos. El Comité de Ética en Investigación aprobó protocolo de investigación. Resultados: la alta morbilidad y la dependencia de BADL se asociaron significativamente con niveles más altos de sobrecarga del cuidador. Estas características perdieron su importancia cuando ajustamos el modelo por la edad del cuidador, tiempo que proporciona cuidados y convivencia con los ancianos. Conclusión: estos resultados revelan la necesidad de intervenciones para garantizar apoyo a los cuidadores para reducir la sobrecarga relacionada con el cuidado.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of Sarcopenia and Quality of Life (SarQoL) in Brazil

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia is defined as a slow, progressive, and apparently inevitable process of involuntary loss of muscle mass, strength, and quality, which occurs with advancing age. It is widely accepted that sarcopenia can directly affect quality of life. OBJECTIVE: Translate, adapt and validate the "Sarcopenia and Quality of Life" instrument (SarQoL) to the Brazilian context. DESIGN AND SETTINGS: Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and validation study carried out at the Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: The population consisted of 221 older adult participants. The steps recommended by the guidelines from the authors of the original instrument were followed sequentially: initial translation, synthesis of translations, backward translation, evaluation by a panel of judges, pre-test, and analysis of psychometric properties. The translation and adaptation process was conducted as recommended. RESULTS: Two hundred and twenty-one participants took part in the step analysis of the psychometric properties of SarQoL, in which 55 presented sarcopenia. Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the total SarQoL questionnaire was 0.976, indicating excellent internal consistency. Excellent agreements between the test and retest with an Interclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) of 0.983 (95% confidence interval: 0.901-0.996) were observed in the SarQoL domains. The domains of Short-Form 36 and EuroQoL 5-dimension showed significant correlation, from moderate to strong magnitude, with SarQoL total score, indicating convergent validity. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian version of SarQoL presented evidence of reliability and validity.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of Sarcopenia and Quality of Life (SarQoL) in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia is defined as a slow, progressive, and apparently inevitable process of involuntary loss of muscle mass, strength, and quality, which occurs with advancing age. It is widely accepted that sarcopenia can directly affect quality of life. OBJECTIVE: Translate, adapt and validate the "Sarcopenia and Quality of Life" instrument (SarQoL) to the Brazilian context. DESIGN AND SETTINGS: Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and validation study carried out at the Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: The population consisted of 221 older adult participants. The steps recommended by the guidelines from the authors of the original instrument were followed sequentially: initial translation, synthesis of translations, backward translation, evaluation by a panel of judges, pre-test, and analysis of psychometric properties. The translation and adaptation process was conducted as recommended. RESULTS: Two hundred and twenty-one participants took part in the step analysis of the psychometric properties of SarQoL, in which 55 presented sarcopenia. Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the total SarQoL questionnaire was 0.976, indicating excellent internal consistency. Excellent agreements between the test and retest with an Interclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) of 0.983 (95% confidence interval: 0.901-0.996) were observed in the SarQoL domains. The domains of Short-Form 36 and EuroQoL 5-dimension showed significant correlation, from moderate to strong magnitude, with SarQoL total score, indicating convergent validity. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian version of SarQoL presented evidence of reliability and validity.

Efficacy of iSupport-Brasil for unpaid caregivers of people living with dementia: protocol for a randomized and controlled clinical trial / Eficácia do iSupport-Brasil para cuidadores informais de pessoas que vivem com demência: protocolo de um ensaio clínico randomizado e controlado

ABSTRACT. Unpaid caregivers of people living with dementia tend to suffer mental health problems as a result of the negative effects associated with the care tasks. Thus, psychosocial interventions for this population group are necessary. iSupport is an online support program for caregivers that was created by the World Health Organization. Objective: To describe the design of a randomized clinical trial to measure the efficacy of the iSupport-Brasil version on caregivers' mental health and well-being. Methods: The participants will be randomized into Intervention Group (IG) (n=195) and Control Group (CG) (n=195). For three months, the IG will access the iSupport-Brasil platform, the CG will enter the electronic page of the Brazilian Alzheimer's Association, and both groups will be emailed the preliminary version of the "Guia de cuidados para a pessoa idosa" e-book (a guide to providing care to the elderly) from the Ministry of Health. The data will be collected at three moments: baseline, and three and six months after the beginning of the intervention. Results: It is expected that it will be possible to provide diverse validity evidence about iSupport-Brasil as an online and free intervention alternative, as a preventive means and as a way to promote mental health among caregivers of people living with dementia. Conclusion: Through the evaluation protocol of this randomized clinical trial on the effects of the iSupport-Brasil program, it may become a reference for countries that plan to adapt and improve the iSupport program using digital health solutions.

RESUMO. Cuidadores informais de pessoas que vivem com demência tendem a sofrer problemas de saúde mental como resultado dos efeitos negativos associados às tarefas de cuidado. Assim, intervenções psicossociais para essa população são necessárias. O iSupport é um programa de apoio online para cuidadores criado pela Organização Mundial da Saúde. Objetivo: Descrever o desenho de um ensaio clínico randomizado para medir a eficácia da versão iSupport-Brasil na saúde mental e no bem-estar de cuidadores. Métodos: Os participantes serão randomizados em Grupo Intervenção (GI) (n=195) e Grupo Controle (GC) (n=195). Durante três meses, o GI acessará a plataforma iSupport-Brasil, o CG entrará na página eletrônica da Associação Brasileira de Alzheimer e ambos os grupos receberão por e-mail a versão preliminar do e-book Guia de cuidados para a pessoa idosa, do Ministério da Saúde. Os dados serão coletados em três momentos: linha de base, três e seis meses após o início da intervenção. Resultados: Espera-se que seja possível fornecer diversas evidências sobre os efeitos do iSupport-Brasil como alternativa de intervenção online e gratuita, de forma a promover a saúde mental entre os cuidadores de pessoas que vivem com demência. Conclusão: O protocolo de avaliação deste ensaio clínico randomizado sobre os efeitos do programa iSupport-Brasil pode se tornar uma referência para os países que planejam adaptar e melhorar esta intervenção, usando soluções digitais de saúde.

Burden and psychological symptoms on informal caregivers of the elderly in the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the burden and psychological symptoms of informal caregivers of the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: Cross-sectional study with 50 caregivers from the Gerontology Outpatient Clinic in the interior of São Paulo, evaluated in 2021 via teleconsultation by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Zarit-Brief Burden Interview. Poisson's multivariate regression was applied to the two instruments scores according to the set of characteristics of the participants. RESULTS: Psychological symptoms were highlighted in caregivers with longer time in exercise (p=0.01; p=0.001) and who lived in the same environment with the elderly (p=0.04; p=0.02). Burden was associated with age (p<0.001) and living with the elderly (p=0.001). CONCLUSION: There is a need for interventions that attenuate psychological symptoms and burden in older caregivers, who live with the elderly and have been working for a longer time.

Factors associated with symptoms of physical and emotional burden in informal caregivers of the elderly.

OBJECTIVES: to analyze the personal and work-related burden factors associated with physical and emotional symptoms of informal caregivers of the elderly. METHODS: cross-sectional study conducted with 121 informal caregivers and 121 seniors who received care, assessed individually for the risk of: physical overload, musculoskeletal symptoms, Self-Reporting Questionnaire, effort perception, and Katz index. RESULTS: a greater perception of effort raises up to 3.3 times the chances of presenting symptoms of pain in the spine region (p=0.01), and lower functional capacity of the elderly increases up to 1.3 times the chances of presenting pain symptoms in the spine region (p=0.02). The symptoms of emotional overload were associated with the caregiver's low income (p=0.02). CONCLUSIONS: the perception of effort, dependence of the elderly, caregiver's age, and symptoms of emotional overload are involved with caregivers' symptoms of physical overload, and low income, with emotional overload.

ISupport-Brasil: Preliminary results of the usability and acceptability assessment by caregivers of people who have dementia.

Objective: To assess usability and acceptability of iSupport-Brasil (iSupport-BR) to virtually support family caregivers of people who have dementia. Materials and methods: In the first stage, nine caregivers/former caregivers assessed the interface of the platform that hosts iSupport-BR. In the second stage, 10 caregivers assessed acceptability of the platform and answered the System Usability Scale (SUS), which varies from 0 to 100 points. A descriptive analysis of the quantitative data was performed, as well as a thematic analysis on the open questions. All the ethical aspects were respected. Results: The results of the first stage indicated a user-friendly interface of the system and relevant content of the program, with 55.6 and 77.8% of the participants assigning the maximum grade to these questions, respectively. Of the five possible points, the system's mean score was 3.7. In Stage 2, 80% of the caregivers rated the program as very useful and 100% would recommend it to other caregivers. Perception of the program's usability by the SUS scale was excellent (M = 86.5 ± 11.5). Conclusion: This research allowed elaborating the final version of iSupport-BR, considering usability and acceptability of the platform and the program for computers/notebooks, being a pioneer in evaluating it for use in smartphones. Future research studies will have to assess the effects of iSupport-BR on the caregivers' mental health.

Cultural factors associated with burden in unpaid caregivers of older adults: A systematic review.

The aim of the present systematic review was to investigate cultural factors associated with burden in unpaid caregivers of older adults. Searches were conducted in the Pubmed, Web of Science, PsycInfo, Scopus, Embase, LILACs and SciELO databases for relevant articles published in English, Portuguese and Spanish using the search terms 'Caregiver AND Culture AND (Burnout OR Caregiver Burden) AND Aged'. No restriction was imposed regarding year of publication. A total of 1234 articles were identified, 34 of which were selected for the present review. The following sociodemographic characteristics were associated with burden: being female, married, White caregivers, young and the spouse of the care recipient; having no siblings; having low schooling and low economic status. Cultural factors associated with burden were living with the care recipient, not professing a religion or having little spirituality, familism (i.e. less reciprocity) and an absence of social support. The present findings underscore the importance of developing intervention strategies that consider cultural factors to minimise the negative impacts of care on unpaid caregivers of older adults.

Agreement between fragility assessment instruments for older adults registered in primary health care.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the level of agreement between the Subjective Frailty Assessment (SFA) and Clinical Functional Vulnerability Index (CFVI-20) for the diagnosis of frailty in older adults. METHODS: A descriptive, comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018/2019 with 492 older adults at nine Family Health Strategy units in the city of Três Lagoas, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Frailty was assessed using the SFA and CFVI-20 in addition to a structured interview. The Wilcoxon test and Pearson's chi-squared test were used for the comparisons. RESULTS: Agreement was 35.4%, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.11. After dichotomizing the sample into frail and non-frail individuals, agreement was 70.1%, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.41 and Cronbach's alpha coefficients of 0.61 and 0.74 for IVCF-20 and SFA, respectively. The prevalence of frailty was lower using the IVCF-20 (17.1%) compared to 59.8% using the SFA. CONCLUSION: Agreement regarding the classification of frailty between the two instruments ranged from low to moderate. This finding underscores the need for a standardized instrument for measuring frailty in community-dwelling older adults.

Effects of concert music on cognitive, physiological, and psychological parameters in the elderly with dementia: a quasi-experimental study.

Non-pharmacological interventions, such as the use of music, have been shown to be important potential means of controlling adverse symptoms and signs resulting from chronic diseases already present in elderly patients with dementia. Objectives: The objective of this study was to analyze the effects of concert music on cognitive and physiological parameters, and behavioral and psychological symptoms in institutionalized elderly people with dementia. Methods: A descriptive-exploratory, quantitative, quasi-experimental study was conducted with 14 elderly people. They were allocated in intervention group (IG) (n=7) with eight sessions of music listening, once a week, for 2 months, and control group (CG) (n=7) with the same procedure but without listening to the music. All participants were assessed by Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) and Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination - Revised (ACE-R) before and after the intervention. Blood pressure (BP) data were obtained; heart rate (HR) and coherence were obtained through Cardioemotion during sessions. The data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test and Student's t-test. Results: There was a predominance of female participants, who were widowed and diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD) in both groups. A statistically significant reduction was found in the mean of apathy reduction (p=0.038) and the total mean of NPI-Q severity (p=0.033) (paired Student's t-test) in IG. No significant differences were found in mean level of the pre- and post-analysis variables in CG. Conclusions: Concert music had a positive effect on the behavior of institutionalized elderly. Stimuli and possibilities of improving the current behavioral conditions are observed.

Intervenções não farmacológicas, como o uso da música, têm-se mostrado importantes meios potenciais de controlar os sintomas e sinais adversos decorrentes das enfermidades crônicas já instaladas em idosos com demência. Objetivos: Analisar o efeito da música de concerto sobre a cognição, parâmetros fisiológicos e sintomas comportamentais e psicológicos em idosos com demência institucionalizados. Métodos: Estudo descritivo-exploratório, quantitativo, quase experimental, realizado com 14 idosos. Eles foram alocados em: Grupo Intervenção (GI) (n=7), com oito sessões de audição musical, uma vez por semana, durante dois meses; e Grupo Controle (GC) (n=7), com o mesmo procedimento, porém sem a audição da música. Todos os participantes foram avaliados pelo Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) e Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination ­ Revised (ACE-R) antes e depois do período da intervenção. Foram obtidos dados de pressão arterial, frequência e coerência cardíaca por meio do cardioemotion durante as sessões. Os dados foram analisados pelos testes Exato de Fischer e t de Student. Resultados: Em ambos os grupos houve predominância de participantes do sexo feminino, estado civil de viuvez e com diagnóstico de Alzheimer. Foi encontrada redução estatisticamente significativa na média do desgaste na apatia (p=0,038) e média total do NPI-Q gravidade (p=0,033) (teste t de Student pareado) no GI. Para o GC, não foram encontradas diferenças significativas no nível médio das variáveis na pré e pós-análise. Conclusões: A música de concerto teve efeitos positivos no comportamento dos idosos institucionalizados. Nota-se que, em geral, ela trouxe estímulos e possibilidades de melhoria das condições comportamentais atuais.

Effects of concert music on cognitive, physiological, and psychological parameters in the elderly with dementia: a quasi-experimental study / Efeitos da música de concerto sobre a cognição, parâmetros fisiológicos e psicológicos em idosos com demência: estudo quase experimental

ABSTRACT. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as the use of music, have been shown to be important potential means of controlling adverse symptoms and signs resulting from chronic diseases already present in elderly patients with dementia. Objectives: The objective of this study was to analyze the effects of concert music on cognitive and physiological parameters, and behavioral and psychological symptoms in institutionalized elderly people with dementia. Methods: A descriptive-exploratory, quantitative, quasi-experimental study was conducted with 14 elderly people. They were allocated in intervention group (IG) (n=7) with eight sessions of music listening, once a week, for 2 months, and control group (CG) (n=7) with the same procedure but without listening to the music. All participants were assessed by Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) and Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination - Revised (ACE-R) before and after the intervention. Blood pressure (BP) data were obtained; heart rate (HR) and coherence were obtained through Cardioemotion during sessions. The data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test and Student's t-test. Results: There was a predominance of female participants, who were widowed and diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD) in both groups. A statistically significant reduction was found in the mean of apathy reduction (p=0.038) and the total mean of NPI-Q severity (p=0.033) (paired Student's t-test) in IG. No significant differences were found in mean level of the pre- and post-analysis variables in CG. Conclusions: Concert music had a positive effect on the behavior of institutionalized elderly. Stimuli and possibilities of improving the current behavioral conditions are observed.

RESUMO. Intervenções não farmacológicas, como o uso da música, têm-se mostrado importantes meios potenciais de controlar os sintomas e sinais adversos decorrentes das enfermidades crônicas já instaladas em idosos com demência. Objetivos: Analisar o efeito da música de concerto sobre a cognição, parâmetros fisiológicos e sintomas comportamentais e psicológicos em idosos com demência institucionalizados. Métodos: Estudo descritivo-exploratório, quantitativo, quase experimental, realizado com 14 idosos. Eles foram alocados em: Grupo Intervenção (GI) (n=7), com oito sessões de audição musical, uma vez por semana, durante dois meses; e Grupo Controle (GC) (n=7), com o mesmo procedimento, porém sem a audição da música. Todos os participantes foram avaliados pelo Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) e Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination - Revised (ACE-R) antes e depois do período da intervenção. Foram obtidos dados de pressão arterial, frequência e coerência cardíaca por meio do cardioemotion durante as sessões. Os dados foram analisados pelos testes Exato de Fischer e t de Student. Resultados: Em ambos os grupos houve predominância de participantes do sexo feminino, estado civil de viuvez e com diagnóstico de Alzheimer. Foi encontrada redução estatisticamente significativa na média do desgaste na apatia (p=0,038) e média total do NPI-Q gravidade (p=0,033) (teste t de Student pareado) no GI. Para o GC, não foram encontradas diferenças significativas no nível médio das variáveis na pré e pós-análise. Conclusões: A música de concerto teve efeitos positivos no comportamento dos idosos institucionalizados. Nota-se que, em geral, ela trouxe estímulos e possibilidades de melhoria das condições comportamentais atuais.

Hearing handicap and frailty in community-dwelling older adults living. / Handicap auditivo e fragilidade em idosos da comunidade.

PURPOSE: To verify the relationship between hearing handicap and frailty in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 238 older adults (aged ≥ 60 years) in 2018. The Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly - Screening version - HHIE-S was applied to assess the hearing handicap. To assess frailty, the Frailty Phenotype proposed for Fried and co-workers was adopted, objectively evaluating 5 criteria: unintentional weight loss, reported fatigue, reduced grip strength, reduced walking speed and low physical activity. It was investigated whether the hearing handicap were related with frailty using Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman test. RESULTS: Worse perception of the hearing handicap was found in pre-frail and frail individuals, compared to non-frail individuals. In addition, hearing handicap showed a positive and statistically significant correlation with frailty. CONCLUSION: Hearing handicap is related to frailty in community-dwelling older adults.

OBJETIVO: Verificar a relação entre o handicap auditivo e fragilidade em idosos residentes da comunidade. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal realizado com 238 idosos (idade ≥ 60 anos), no ano de 2018. O questionário Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly - Screening version - HHIE-S, foi aplicado para quantificar o handicap auditivo. A fragilidade foi avaliada segundo o Fenótipo de Fragilidade proposto por Fried e colaboradores, utilizando os 5 critérios: perda de peso não intencional, fadiga relatada, redução da força de preensão, redução da velocidade de caminhada e baixa atividade física. A relação entre o handicap auditivo e a fragilidade foi realizada por meio dos Testes Kruskal-Wallis e Spermann. RESULTADOS: Maior percepção do handicap auditivo foi verificado nos indivíduos pré-frágeis e frágeis, comparados aos não frágeis. O handicap auditivo apresentou correlação positiva e estatisticamente significante com maiores níveis de fragilidade. CONCLUSÃO: O handicap auditivo está relacionado a fragilidade em idosos da comunidade.

Usability and acceptability of internet-based interventions for family carers of people living with dementia: systematic review.

Objectives: Internet-based interventions can help carers of people living with dementia to cope with care-related challenges and can help improve their wellbeing. This systematic review aimed at investigating the criteria of usability and acceptability of self-guided internet-based interventions for family carers of people living with dementia. Method: Searches were conducted on PubMed, Virtual Health Library Regional Portal (Americas), MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Cochrane. Studies published up to December 2019, in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, were eligible. We followed the definition/criteria from ISO ISO-9241-11 for usability (efficiency, effectiveness, and satisfaction) and acceptability (barriers for using and utility). Methodological quality was evaluated using specific tools according to each study design. Results: Ten studies were included, all of which had high methodological quality. Carers of people living with dementia indicated that internet-based interventions were mostly effective, efficient, and satisfactory. They considered these to be informative, relevant, and functional, highlighting the utility and intention of using the resource in the future. The high heterogeneity in the terms and methods used to evaluate usability and acceptability hindered cross-study comparisons, however internet-based interventions were considered useful and acceptable by most carers. Conclusion: Future research should consider expanding the criteria of usability and acceptability to better reflect the needs of this population.

Equilíbrio trabalho-família entre cuidadores de idosos: uma revisão sistemática / Work-family balance among caregivers of elderly people: a systematic review

Resumo Introdução Trabalhadores podem vivenciar um conflito de papéis ao tentarem conciliar trabalho e atividades de cuidado com familiares idosos. Objetivo Realizar uma revisão sistemática das pesquisas empíricas sobre equilíbrio trabalho-família entre cuidadores de idosos. Método Foram consultadas as bases de dados Scopus, PubMed, Scielo, BVS, Web of Science e PsycInfo para identificar as pesquisas publicadas no período de 2015 a 2020. Resultados Identificaram-se 20 artigos que foram categorizados da seguinte forma: 1. Cuidadores de idosos com demência e câncer; 2. Gênero; 3. Geração Sanduíche e baby boomers; e 4. Estratégias de enfrentamento individuais e coletivas. Destacou-se que existem especificidades no equilíbrio trabalho-família que podem favorecer tanto o spillover positivo quanto o negativo; por isso devem ser consideradas no planejamento das estratégias individuais e coletivas. Conclusão Para favorecer o equilíbrio trabalho-família, deve-se estudar as escolhas entre os trabalhos e responsabilidades familiares, bem como ampliar esse quadro estreito por meio da análise de aspectos que envolvam gênero, biografia, normas culturais, valores sociais, aspectos econômicos e soluções políticas disponíveis a esses trabalhadores.

Abstract Introduction Active workers may experience role conflict when trying to reconcile work and caregiving activities with elderly family members. Objective To carry out a systematic review of empirical research on work-family balance among caregivers of the elderly. Method Scopus, PubMed, Scielo, BVS, Web of Science and PsycInfo databases were consulted to identify research published from 2015 to 2020. Results 20 articles were identified and categorized as follows: 1. Caregivers of elderly people with dementia and cancer; 2. Gender; 3. Sandwich Generation and Baby Boomers; and 4. Individual and collective coping strategies. It was highlighted that there are specificities in the work-family balance that can favor both positive and negative spillovers; therefore, they must be considered in the planning of individual and collective strategies. Conclusion In order to favor work-family balance, the choices between work and family responsibilities should be studied, as well as expanding this narrow framework through the analysis of aspects involving gender, biography, cultural norms, social values, economic aspects and political solutions available to these workers.

Agreement between fragility assessment instruments for older adults registered in primary health care / Acuerdo entre instrumentos de evaluación de fragilidad en mayores registrados en atención primaria de salud / Concordância entre instrumentos de avaliação da fragilidade em idosos na atenção primária à saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the level of agreement between the Subjective Frailty Assessment (SFA) and Clinical Functional Vulnerability Index (CFVI-20) for the diagnosis of frailty in older adults. Methods: A descriptive, comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018/2019 with 492 older adults at nine Family Health Strategy units in the city of Três Lagoas, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Frailty was assessed using the SFA and CFVI-20 in addition to a structured interview. The Wilcoxon test and Pearson's chi-squared test were used for the comparisons. Results: Agreement was 35.4%, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.11. After dichotomizing the sample into frail and non-frail individuals, agreement was 70.1%, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.41 and Cronbach's alpha coefficients of 0.61 and 0.74 for IVCF-20 and SFA, respectively. The prevalence of frailty was lower using the IVCF-20 (17.1%) compared to 59.8% using the SFA. Conclusion: Agreement regarding the classification of frailty between the two instruments ranged from low to moderate. This finding underscores the need for a standardized instrument for measuring frailty in community-dwelling older adults.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar el nivel de concordancia entre la Evaluación Subjetiva de la Fragilidad (SFA) y el Índice de Vulnerabilidad Clínico-Funcional (IVCF-20) para el rastreo de la fragilidad en los individuos. Método: Estudio descriptivo, comparativo y transversal realizado en 2018/2019 con 492 ancianos, en 09 Estrategias de Salud Familiar en el municipio de Três Lagoas-MS. La fragilidad se evaluó mediante el SFA y el IVCF-20 y una entrevista estructurada. Para las comparaciones, se utilizaron las pruebas de chi-cuadrado de Wilcoxon y Pearson. Resultados: La concordancia fue 35,4%, con un coeficiente Kappa 0,11. Al dicotomizar en frágiles y no frágiles, la concordancia fue 70,1%, con un coeficiente Kappa 0,41, un alfa de Cronbach para el IVCF-20 de 0,61 y SFA de 0,74. La prevalencia de la fragilidad fue menor en el IVCF - 20 (17,1%) y mayor en el SFA (59,8%). Conclusión: La concordancia entre los dos instrumentos fue de baja a moderada, lo que pone de manifiesto la necesidad de estandarizar el instrumento para evaluar la fragilidad en los ancianos que viven en la comunidad.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o nível de concordância entre a Avaliação Subjetiva da Fragilidade (SFA) e o Índice de Vulnerabilidade Clínico-Funcional (IVCF-20) para rastreio da fragilidade em idosos. Métodos: Estudo descritivo, comparativo e transversal realizado em 2018/2019 com 492 idosos, em 09 Estratégias Saúde da Família no município de Três Lagoas-MS. A Fragilidade foi avaliada utilizando a SFA e IVCF-20 e entrevista estruturada. Para comparações, utilizou testes de Wilcoxon e qui-quadrado de Pearson. Resultados: Concordância foi de 35,4%, com coeficiente Kappa de 0,11. Dicotomizando em idosos frágeis e não-frágeis, a concordância foi de 70,1%, com coeficiente Kappa foi 0,41 e o alfa de Cronbach para IVCF-20 foi 0.61 e SFA 0.74. A prevalência da fragilidade foi menor do IVCF - 20 (17,1%) e maior na SFA (59,8%). Conclusão: A concordância entre os dois instrumentos variou de baixa a moderada, destacando a necessidade de padronizar o instrumento para aferir a fragilidade em idosos comunitários.

Frailty in younger-old and oldest-old adults in a context of high social vulnerability / Fatores associados à fragilidade em idosos jovens e mais velhos em contexto de alta vulnerabilidade social

Objective: To analyze the factors associated with physical frailty in community-dwelling younger-old (60 to 74 years) and oldest-old (75 years or older) adults in a region of high social vulnerability. Social vulnerability refers to the absence of or difficulty obtaining social support from public institutions, situations that hinder the realization of or deny citizens their social rights and affect their social cohesion, and the ability to react to high-risk social situations ­ associated health and illness. In this study, we used the São Paulo Social Vulnerability Index developed by the SEADE Foundation, which classifies social vulnerability based on socioeconomic and demographic conditions. Methods: Quantitative analytical study of 303 older adults. Fried frailty phenotype assessment was performed and the Mini Mental State Examination, Geriatric Depression Scale, Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living, and the Lawton Scale of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living were administered. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to analyze data. Results: Of the older adults, 12.21% were nonfrail, 60.72% were prefrail, and 27.06% were frail. The single factor most associated with frailty was depressive symptoms (OR = 2.65; 95%CI 1.38 ­ 5.08) in the younger-old and illiteracy (OR = 14.64; 95%CI 1.82 ­ 116.51) in the oldest old. Conclusion: The factor most associated with frailty in younger-old adults (aged 60 to 74 years) was depressive symptoms, whereas in the oldest old (aged 75 or older), the factor most associated with frailty was being illiterate. The results of this investigation should prompt health professionals and managers to discuss and program new strategies for health promotion and prevention of factors that may aggravate frailty, respecting the differences found between older adults in early and later old age.

Objetivo: Analisar os fatores associados à fragilidade física de idosos jovens (de 60 a 74 anos) e mais velhos (75 anos ou mais) que vivem na comunidade em uma região de alta vulnerabilidade social. A vulnerabilidade social refere-se à ausência ou dificuldade de assistência de instituições de segurança social, situações que dificultam ou negam o exercício dos direitos sociais de cada indivíduo e afetam sua coesão social, e a capacidade de reagir a situações de risco social ­ associados a saúde e doença. Nesta pesquisa, foi utilizado o Índice Paulista de Vulnerabilidade Social elaborado pela Fundação SEADE, que classifica a vulnerabilidade social com base em dimensões socioeconômicas e demográficas. Metodologia: Estudo quantitativo transversal, realizado com 303 idosos. Aplicaram-se avaliação da fragilidade física (fenótipo de Fried), miniexame do estado mental, escala de depressão geriátrica, índex de Katz ­ Atividades Básicas de Vida Diária, e escala de Lawton e Brody ­ Atividades Instrumentais de Vida Diária, além de terem sido avaliadas as características sociodemográficas e de saúde. Para a análise dos dados foram realizadas estatística descritiva e regressão logística. Resultados: Dos 303 idosos, 12,21% eram não frágeis, 60,72% pré-frágeis e 27,06% frágeis. O fator associado à fragilidade nos idosos jovens foi ter sintomas depressivos (odds ratio ­ OR = 2,65; intervalo de confiança de 95% ­ IC95% 1,38 ­ 5,08), e nos mais velhos, ser analfabeto (OR = 14,65; IC95% 1,82 ­ 116,51). Conclusão: O fator associado à fragilidade no grupo de idosos jovens foi ter sintomas depressivos. No grupo de idosos mais velhos, o fator que se associou à fragilidade foi ser analfabeto. Os resultados desta investigação poderão instigar profissionais e gestores de saúde sobre as necessidades de se discutir e programar novas estratégias de promoção à saúde e prevenção de fatores agravantes da fragilidade respeitando-se as diferenças encontradas a idosos durante seu envelhecimento.

Fatores correlacionados à fragilidade de idosos em atenção ambulatorial: diferença entre grupos etários / Factores correlacionados con la fragilidad de los ancianos en la atención ambulatoria: diferencia entre grupos de edad / Factors correlated with the frailty of elderly in outpatient care: difference between age groups

RESUMO Objetivo correlacionar variáveis sociodemográficas e de saúde de idosos de diferentes grupos etários com a fragilidade. Método estudo quantitativo, transversal, realizado com 50 idosos atendidos em um Ambulatório de Gerontologia no interior de São Paulo. Foram coletados dados sociodemográficos e de saúde, sendo: fragilidade; desempenho cognitivo; dependência em Atividades Básicas e Instrumentais de Vida Diária e sintomas depressivos. Para a análise dos dados, foi utilizado o teste de correlação de Spearman. Resultados houve o predomínio de mulheres, com média de 79,4 (±9,4) anos de idade e baixa escolaridade. Foram considerados frágeis 58,3% dos idosos entre 60 e 79 anos e 84,6% daqueles acima de 80 anos. No primeiro grupo, houve correlação entre a fragilidade e o maior número de medicamentos, pior desempenho cognitivo, dependência em Atividades Básicas e Instrumentais de Vida Diária. Nos mais longevos, a fragilidade correlacionou-se ao maior número de morbidades, pior desempenho cognitivo e dependência em Atividades Básicas e Instrumentais de Vida Diária. Conclusão e implicações para a prática: as correlações encontradas permitem o estabelecimento de medidas para aperfeiçoar o planejamento de ações voltadas à assistência ambulatorial, possibilitando organizar prioridades de prevenção e intervenção.

RESUMEN Objetivo correlacionar variables sociodemográficas y de salud de ancianos de diferentes grupos de edad con fragilidad. Método estudio cuantitativo, transversal, realizado con 50 ancianos atendidos en un Ambulatorio de Gerontología del interior de São Paulo. Se recogieron datos sociodemográficos y de salud, así: fragilidad; rendimiento cognitivo; dependencia de las Actividades Básicas e Instrumentales de la Vida Diaria y síntomas depresivos. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó la prueba de correlación de Spearman. Resultados hubo predominio del sexo femenino, con media de 79,4 (±9,4) años de edad y baja escolaridad. El 58,3% de los ancianos entre 60 y 79 años y el 84,6% de los mayores de 80 años fueron considerados frágiles. En el primer grupo, hubo correlación entre la fragilidad y el mayor número de medicamentos, peor desempeño cognitivo, dependencia de las Actividades Básicas e Instrumentales de la Vida Diaria. En los mayores, la fragilidad se correlacionó con mayor número de morbilidades, peor desempeño cognitivo y dependencia de las Actividades Básicas e Instrumentales de la Vida Diaria. Conclusión e implicaciones para la práctica: las correlaciones encontradas permiten establecer medidas para mejorar la planificación de acciones dirigidas a la atención ambulatoria, posibilitando la organización de prioridades de prevención e intervención.

Abstract Objective to correlate socio-demographic and health variables of elderly people of different age groups with frailty. Method this is a quantitative, cross-sectional study conducted with 50 elderly individuals seen at a Gerontology Outpatient Clinic in the interior of São Paulo. Socio-demographic and health data were collected, including: frailty, cognitive performance, dependence on Basic and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, and depressive symptoms. For data analysis, the Spearman correlation test was used. Results there was a predominance of women, with a mean age of 79.4 (±9.4) years and low education. A total of 58.3% of the elderly aged between 60 and 79 years and 84.6% of those above 80 years were considered frail. In the first group, there was a correlation between frailty and a higher number of medications, worse cognitive performance, and dependence on Basic and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. In the oldest old, frailty correlated with a greater number of morbidities, worse cognitive performance, and dependence on Basic and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. Conclusion and implications for practice the correlations found allow the establishment of measures to improve the planning of actions aimed at outpatient care, enabling the organization of prevention and intervention priorities.