Como direcionar a formação do fisioterapeuta em Gerontologia no Brasil diante do envelhecimento populacional? / How to direct the training of physiotherapists in Gerontology in Brazil in the face of population aging?

O rápido envelhecimento populacional brasileiro mudou nosso cenário de saúde, o que exige que o profissional fisioterapeuta esteja preparado para lidar com as especificidades desta população. A Associação Brasileira de Fisioterapia em Gerontologia (ABRAFIGE), que tem a missão de fortalecer a especialidade e promover assistência qualificada em Fisioterapia em Gerontologia, propõe uma relação das competências fundamentais para formação no ensino nos cursos de graduação em Fisioterapia e de pósgraduação lato sensu em Fisioterapia em Gerontologia. Essa iniciativa visa auxiliar os gestores das Instituições de Ensino Superior das diversas regiões brasileiras no planejamento de tais cursos de forma a melhorar a qualidade da formação dos fisioterapeutas nessa área.

The rapid aging of the Brazilian population has changed the health scenario. Such a change requires physiotherapists to be prepared to deal with the specificities of this population. The Associação Brasileira de Fisioterapia em Gerontologia - ABRAFIGE (Brazilian Association of Physical Therapy in Gerontology), which has the mission of strengthening the specialty and the purpose of promoting qualified assistance in physical therapy in gerontology, proposes fundamental skills for training in teaching in undergraduate and graduate courses in physical therapy in gerontology. This initiative aims to assist administrators at higher education institutions in different regions of Brazil in the planning of such courses to improve the quality of the education of physiotherapists in this field.

Resistance training as a tool for changing muscle mass and frailty status in sarcopenic older women: a quasi-experimental study / Exercícios resistidos modificam a massa muscular e a classificação de fragilidade em idosas sarcopênicas: estudo quase-experimental / Los ejercicios de fuerza provocan cambios en la masa muscular y la clasificación de la fragilidad en ancianas con sarcopenia: un estudio cuasiexperimental

ABSTRACT Frailty and sarcopenia are geriatric syndromes highly prevalent, complex, and hard to diagnose and treat. The literature still lacks a consensus on which resistance training program is better for older people, especially when considering frailty status and sarcopenia. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a progressive resistance training program on muscle mass and frailty status in older sarcopenic women. This study included 18 community-dwelling sarcopenic women aged 65 or older enrolled in the progressive resistance training program. The intervention was based on 75% of each subject's maximum repetition test (3 times/week, for 12 weeks). Before the intervention, 16.7% were frail, and 61.1% were pre-frail; after the intervention, 5.6% were frail, and 50% were pre-frail. The result shows that the intervention reduced frailty status and increased muscle mass (p=0.01). Hence, after the intervention, we observed both a decrease in frailty and a positive change in function, since the percentage of robust women increased twice (p=0.01). We conclude that the progressive resistance training program might be the best strategy to prevent frailty and sarcopenia. Therefore, we suggest using weight resistance training in daily clinical practice to improve muscle mass and decrease frailty status in sarcopenic women.

RESUMO Fragilidade e sarcopenia são consideradas síndromes geriátricas que apresentam grande prevalência e complexidade e são de difícil diagnóstico e tratamento. Ainda não existe consenso quanto ao melhor programa de exercícios resistidos, especialmente quando se considera a fragilidade e a sarcopenia. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a efetividade de um programa de carga na massa muscular e na classificação de fragilidade em idosas sarcopênicas. Participaram 18 idosas sarcopênicas, com idade a partir de 65 anos, que completaram um programa de carga progressiva. A intervenção utilizou o cálculo de 75% de uma repetição máxima (1RM) para cada participante (3 vezes/semana, por 12 semanas). Antes da intervenção, 16,7% foram consideradas frágeis e 61,1% pré-frágeis; após, 5,6% passaram a ser consideradas frágeis e 50% pré-frágeis. Os resultados mostraram que a intervenção alterou a classificação de fragilidade e aumentou a massa muscular das idosas (p=0,01). Observou-se diminuição nos itens de classificação da fragilidade e consequente melhora no perfil funcional, havendo o aumento da porcentagem daquelas consideradas não frágeis após a intervenção (p=0,01). Conclui-se que o programa de exercício resistido progressivo é provavelmente uma das melhores estratégias para prevenir a fragilidade e a sarcopenia. Desta forma, recomenda-se o seu uso na prática clínica diária para melhorar a massa muscular e diminuir o status de fragilidade em mulheres sarcopênicas.

RESUMEN La fragilidad y la sarcopenia son síndromes geriátricos de alta prevalencia y complejidad, además de ser de difícil diagnóstico y tratamiento. Todavía no hay un consenso sobre el programa de ejercicios de fuerza más indicado, especialmente teniendo en cuenta la fragilidad y la sarcopenia. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la efectividad de un programa de carga sobre la masa muscular y la clasificación de la fragilidad en ancianas con sarcopenia. Participaron 18 ancianas con sarcopenia, de más de 65 años y que completaron un programa de carga progresiva. La intervención utilizó el cálculo del 75% de repetición máxima (1RM) para cada participante (3 veces/semana, durante 12 semanas). Antes de la intervención, el 16,7% de las participantes se consideraban frágiles y el 61,1% prefrágiles; después de la intervención, el 5,6% se consideraban frágiles y el 50% prefrágiles. Los resultados mostraron que la intervención produjo cambios en la clasificación de la fragilidad y aumentó la masa muscular de las ancianas (p=0,01). Hubo una reducción en los ítems de clasificación de la fragilidad y una mejora en el perfil funcional, con un aumento del porcentaje de aquellas consideradas no frágiles después de la intervención (p=0,01). Se concluye que el programa de ejercicios de fuerza progresiva se mostró una de las mejores estrategias para prevenir la fragilidad y la sarcopenia. Por tanto, se recomienda aplicarlo en la práctica clínica cotidiana para mejorar la masa muscular y disminuir el estado de fragilidad de mujeres con sarcopenia.

Correction: Normative reference values of handgrip strength for Brazilian older people aged 65 to 90 years: Evidence from the multicenter Fibra­BR study.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250925.].

Difficulty in taking medication and stroke among older adults with systemic arterial hypertension: the Fibra Study.

This article aims to investigate whether difficulty in taking medication is associated with stroke among older adults with Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) and to explore their association with living arrangements. Cross-sectional study was based on 3,502 older adults with SAH from the four universities pole of Frailty in Brazilian Older People (Fibra) Study, Brazil, including 14 municipalities of the five Brazilian regions. We used the medical diagnosis of stroke and difficulty in taking medications (self-reported difficulty and financial difficulty affording prescribed medications). Multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression. Differently from women, older men with SAH, which report difficulty in taking medication (unintentional non-adherence), have higher odds of stroke. When stratified by living arrangements, those living with a partner have even higher odds of stroke compared to those without difficulty in taking medication and living alone. None association was found for difficulty affording prescribed medication for both men and women. Unintentional difficulty in taking medication plays a role in SAH treatment among men. Primary care strategies for controlling blood pressure should not be focus only on patients but targeting spouses as well.

Difficulty in taking medication and stroke among older adults with systemic arterial hypertension: the Fibra Study / Dificuldade em tomar medicamentos e acidente vascular encefálico em idosos com hipertensão arterial sistêmica: Estudo Fibra

Abstract This article aims to investigate whether difficulty in taking medication is associated with stroke among older adults with Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) and to explore their association with living arrangements. Cross-sectional study was based on 3,502 older adults with SAH from the four universities pole of Frailty in Brazilian Older People (Fibra) Study, Brazil, including 14 municipalities of the five Brazilian regions. We used the medical diagnosis of stroke and difficulty in taking medications (self-reported difficulty and financial difficulty affording prescribed medications). Multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression. Differently from women, older men with SAH, which report difficulty in taking medication (unintentional non-adherence), have higher odds of stroke. When stratified by living arrangements, those living with a partner have even higher odds of stroke compared to those without difficulty in taking medication and living alone. None association was found for difficulty affording prescribed medication for both men and women. Unintentional difficulty in taking medication plays a role in SAH treatment among men. Primary care strategies for controlling blood pressure should not be focus only on patients but targeting spouses as well.

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é investigar se a dificuldade em tomar medicamentos está associada ao acidente vascular encefálico (AVE) entre idosos com hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS) e explorar esta associação com arranjos familiares. Estudo seccional baseado em 3.502 idosos com HAS dos quatro polos do Estudo Fibra, Brasil, incluindo 14 cidades das cinco regiões brasileiras. Foi usado o diagnóstico médico de AVE e a dificuldade em tomar medicamentos (dificuldade autorrelatada e dificuldade financeira). Utilizou-se a regressão logística na análise multivariada. Diferentemente das mulheres, homens com HAS que relataram dificuldade em tomar medicamentos (não adesão não intencional) apresentam maior chance de ter AVE. Quando estratificado por arranjos familiares, homens que moravam com o cônjuge apresentaram chance ainda maior de ter AVE, quando comparados com aqueles sem dificuldade em tomar medicamentos e que vivem sozinhos. Nenhuma associação foi encontrada para dificuldade financeira, tanto para mulheres quanto para homens. Dificuldades não intencionais em tomar medicamentos têm um papel importante no controle da HAS entre homens. Estratégias de controle da pressão arterial realizadas na atenção primária não devem focar apenas nos pacientes, mas nos cônjuges destes pacientes.

Normative reference values of handgrip strength for Brazilian older people aged 65 to 90 years: Evidence from the multicenter Fibra­BR study.

BACKGROUND: Handgrip strength (HGS) is an indicator of muscle strength, suited for evaluating the aging process. Its use depends on the availability of reliable normative reference values (NRV). The main objective of this study is to provide NRV of HGS for Brazilians aged 65 to 90 years. METHODS: Participants were from the Frailty in Brazilian Older People research. 2,999 successful aging (SA) participants comprised the development sample. HGS was measured using a hydraulic dynamometer. Obtaining NRV involved regressing HGS on age per sex-height strata, fitting separate fractional polynomial (FP) models for the mean and coefficient of variation. Model fit was assessed via standardized residuals, probability/quantile plots, and comparing observed to normal expected percentages of participants falling within specified centile intervals. For validation, the latter procedure was applied to 2,369 unsuccessfully aging (UA) participants. RESULTS: Across strata, the best-fitting models for the means were FP of power 1. FP models for the CV indicated age invariance, entailing steady heteroscedastic age decline in SD since coefficients for the means were negative and SD = CV×mean. All models adjusted well. Centiles distributions for the SA and UA populations showed anticipated patterns, respectively falling on and below the normative expected centile references. Results (NRV) are presented in tables and centile charts. Equations are also provided. CONCLUSION: NRV/charts may be endorsed for routine use, while still tested further. They would aid professionals caring for older people, not only to identify those at risk and eligible for immediate provisions, but also in planning prevention and rehabilitation measures.

A multidimensional approach to frailty compared with physical phenotype in older Brazilian adults: data from the FIBRA-BR study.

BACKGROUND: Frailty is a predictor of negative health outcomes in older adults. The physical frailty phenotype is an often used form for its operationalization. Some authors have pointed out limitations regarding the unidimensionality of the physical phenotype, introducing other dimensions in the approach to frailty. This study aimed to create a multidimensional model to evaluate frailty in older Brazilian adults and to compare the dimensions of the model created among the categories of the physical frailty phenotype. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from 3569 participants (73.7 ± 6.6 years) from a multicenter and multidisciplinary survey (FIBRA-BR). A three-dimensional model was developed: physical dimension (poor self-rated health, vision impairment, hearing impairment, urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and sleeping disorder), social dimension (living alone, not having someone who could help when needed, not visiting others, and not receiving visitors), and psychological dimension (depressive symptoms, concern about falls, feelings of sadness, and memory problems). The five criteria of the phenotype created by Fried and colleagues were used to evaluate the physical frailty phenotype. The proposed multidimensional frailty model was analyzed using factorial analysis. Pearson's chi-square test was used to analyze the associations between each variable of the multidimensional frailty model and the physical phenotype categories. Analysis of variance compared the multidimensional dimensions scores among the three categories of the physical frailty phenotype. RESULTS: The factorial analysis confirmed a model with three factors, composed of 12 variables, which explained 38.6% of the variability of the model data. The self-rated health variable was transferred to the psychological dimension and living alone variable to the physical dimension. The vision impairment and hearing impairment variables were dropped from the physical dimension. The variables significantly associated with the physical phenotype were self-rated health, urinary incontinence, visiting others, receiving visitors, depressive symptoms, concern about falls, feelings of sadness, and memory problems. A statistically significant difference in mean scores for physical, social, and psychological dimensions among three physical phenotype categories was observed (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: These results confirm the applicability of our frailty model and suggest the need for a multidimensional approach to providing appropriate and comprehensive care for older adults.

Use of healthcare services and therapeutic measures associated with new episodes of acute low back pain-related disability among elderly people: a cross-sectional study on the Back Complaints in the Elders - Brazil cohort.

BACKGROUND: Patients with low back pain frequently undergo a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, but some of these have uncertain effectiveness. This highlights the importance of the association of healthcare services and therapeutic measures relating to disability. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the use of healthcare services and therapeutic measures among Brazilian older adults with disability-related low back pain. DESIGN AND SETTING: Observational cross-sectional study on baseline assessment data from the Back Complaints in the Elders - Brazil (BACE-B) cohort. METHODS: The main analyses were based on a consecutive sample of 602 older adult participants in BACE-B (60 years of age and over). The main outcome measurement for disability-related low back pain was defined as a score of 14 points or more in the Roland Morris Questionnaire. RESULTS: Visits to doctors in the previous six weeks (odds ratio, OR = 1.82; 95% confidence interval, CI 1.22-2.71) and use of analgesics in the previous three months (OR = 1.57; 95% CI 1.07-2.31) showed statistically significant associations with disability-related low back pain. The probability of disability-related low back pain had an additive effect to the combination of use of healthcare services and therapeutic measures (OR = 2.57; 95% CI 1.52-4.36). The analyses showed that this association was significant among women, but not among men. CONCLUSIONS: Occurrence of the combined of consultations and medication use was correlated with higher chance of severe disability among these elderly people with nonspecific low back pain. This suggested that overuse and "crowding-in" effects were present in medical services for elderly people.

Comparação das distâncias previstas e percorridas no incremental shuttle walking test em idosos comunitários / Comparación de las distancias predichas y recorridas en la incremental shuttle walking test en ancianos comunitarios / Comparison of predicted and covered distances in the incremental shuttle walking test in older adults

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a validade externa de três equações de referência para o cálculo da distância a ser percorrida no incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT) por idosos comunitários, e, por fim, identificar qual equação prediz melhor a distância nessa faixa etária. Foram selecionados 84 idosos cadastrados nas Unidades Básicas de Saúde de Diamantina, Minas Gerais. Os voluntários foram submetidos ao ISWT e a distância percorrida em metros até a interrupção do teste foi registrada e utilizada para comparação com as equações de predição. Os voluntários apresentaram média de idade de 73,15±5,89 anos e alguns comprometimentos de saúde comuns dessa faixa etária, sendo a maioria mulheres e praticantes de atividade física. A análise estatística demonstrou que houve interação entre os fatores, ou seja, existe diferença entre as distâncias obtidas pelo ISWT e as distâncias obtidas pelas equações. Houve diferença também nas comparações entre os sexos (p<0,05) e a Equação 1 apresentou maior força de correlação (p<0,0001; r=0,414) com a distância real percorrida em relação às outras equações. Portanto, este estudo demonstrou uma diferença na comparação das distâncias real e calculadas por três equações de predição do ISWT, sugerindo que as equações utilizadas podem superestimar a distância percorrida pelos idosos, e que entre essas a Equação 1 apresentou uma predição mais próxima da distância percorrida para a amostra de idosos avaliada.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la validez externa de tres ecuaciones de referencia para calcular la distancia recorrida de la incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT) para ancianos comunitarios, así como identificar la ecuación que mejor predice la distancia en este grupo de edad. Se seleccionaron a 84 ancianos inscritos en las Unidades Básicas de Salud de Diamantina, Minas Gerais (Brasil). Se aplicaron a los voluntarios la ISWT, y la distancia recorrida en metros hasta la interrupción de la prueba se registró y se utilizó para comparar con las ecuaciones de predicción. Los voluntarios tenían un promedio de edad de 73,15±5,89 años y algunos problemas de salud habituales en este grupo de edad, de los cuales la mayoría fue mujeres y practicantes de actividad física. El análisis estadístico mostró que hubo una interacción entre los factores, es decir, existe una diferencia entre las distancias obtenidas por ISWT y las distancias obtenidas por las ecuaciones. También hubo una diferencia en las comparaciones entre los sexos (p<0,05), y la Ecuación 1 mostró una mayor fuerza de correlación (p<0,0001; r=0,414) con la distancia real recorrida en relación con las otras ecuaciones. Por lo tanto, este estudio demostró una diferencia en la comparación de las distancias reales y calculadas por tres ecuaciones de predicción de ISWT, lo que sugiere que las ecuaciones utilizadas pueden sobreestimar la distancia recorrida por los ancianos y que entre estas la Ecuación 1 presentó una predicción más cercana a la distancia recorrida por la muestra evaluada.

ABSTRACT Our study aimed to evaluate the external validity of three reference equations for estimating the distance to be covered in the incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT) by older adults and to identify which equation best predicts the distance for this age group. In total, 84 older adults registered in the Health Centers of Diamantina, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, were selected. The volunteers were subjected to the ISWT and the distance covered, in meters, until the interruption of the test was recorded and compared with the prediction equations. The volunteers had a mean age of 73.15±5.89 years and some health problems common to this age group, were mostly women, and physically active. Statistical analysis showed an interaction between the factors, that is, a difference between the distances covered the ISWT and the distances obtained by the equations. The analysis showed a difference between the men and women (p<0.05) and Equation 1 showed a greater correlation strength (p<0.0001; r=0.414) with the distance covered compared to the other equations. Therefore, our study showed a difference in the comparison of the distances covered and those estimated by three ISWT prediction equations, suggesting that the equations used may overestimate the distance covered by older adults, and that, Equation 1 showed a prediction closer to the distance covered by the older adults of the sample.

Prediction equation of hip external rotators maximum torque in healthy adults and older adults using the measure of hip extensors maximum torque.

BACKGROUND: The use of predictive equation of muscular torque can reduce physical effort and time spent during evaluation. OBJECTIVES: To establish, validate, and test the accuracy of a prediction equation to estimate the hip external rotators (HER) torque in adults and older adults by means of hip extensors (HEX) torque measurement. METHODS: Eighty-three healthy adults (development set) were assessed to test the association of HEX and HER torques and to establish the prediction equation. A separate 36 adults and 15 older adults (validation sets) were assessed to test the ability of the equation to estimate HER torque. Hip isometric strength was assessed by a handheld dynamometer. RESULTS: Simple linear regression analysis revealed that HEX torque was associated with HER torque (r=0.80; p<0.0001), resulting in the following prediction equation: HERtorque=-0.02+(0.58 * HEXtorque). Paired t-test revealed no difference between directly measured and predicted values of HER torque in adults (mean difference=0.02; 95% CI=-0.115, 0.072) and older adults (mean difference=0.05; 95% CI=-0.02, 0.12). CONCLUSION: The HEX and HER torques were strongly correlated. The prediction equation was valid, accurate, and can be used to estimate HER muscle strength in healthy adults and older adults, requiring only the direct measurement of HEX torque.

Sintomas depressivos e fatores associados em idosos institucionalizados da região metropolitana de Belo Horizonte / Depressive symptoms and associated factors in residents living in long-term care facilities from the metropolitan area of Belo Horizonte

OBJETIVO: Identificar a presença de sintomas depressivos e sua associação com a autopercepção de saúde em idosos residentes em instituições de longa permanência. METODOLOGIA: Estudo transversal que avaliou idosos institucionalizados após triagem realizada pelo miniexame do estado mental. Aplicaram-se questionários padronizados para a coleta de variáveis sociodemográficas, sintomas depressivos e autopercepção de saúde. Análise estatística descritiva por meio de medidas de tendência central e dispersão foram realizadas para caracterização da amostra. Para associação entre as variáveis, realizou-se análise de regressão multinomial simples. Em todos os testes, considerou-se o valor de alfa igual a 0,05. RESULTADOS: Avaliaram-se 127 idosos residentes em 47 instituições de longa permanência. Dentre aqueles que apresentaram sintomas depressivos, 32,3% foram caracterizados como leves e 13,4% com sintomas graves. Em relação à autopercepção de saúde, 46,5% consideraram sua saúde ruim/muito ruim. Na análise da associação entre sintomas depressivos leves e graves e autopercepção de saúde, observou-se significancia estatística de p = 0,004 e p = 0,001, respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados deste estudo sugerem a necessidade de atenção ao cuidado com os idosos institucionalizados que apresentam sintomas depressivos e seu impacto na autopercepção negativa da saúde.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the presence of depressive symptoms and its association with self-rated health among older adults living in Long-term Care Facilities. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study in which older adults living in LTCF were screened by using the Mental State Mini Exam. Standard questionnaires were used to collect the following data: 1) sociodemographic variables, 2) depressive symptoms, and 3) self-rated health. The descriptive statistical analysis by measures of central tendency and dispersion was performed to characterize the sample. The multinomial logistic regression analysis was performed to associate the variables. In all tests, the alpha value of 0.05 was considered. RESULTS: A total of 127 older adults living in 47 long-term care facilities were evaluated. Among those who presented depressive symptoms, 32.3% were classified as having mild symptoms and 13.4% had severe symptoms. Regarding self-rated health, 46.5% considered it poor/very poor. In the analysis of the association between mild and severe depressive symptoms and self-rated health, statistical significance (p = 0.004 and p = 0.001, respectively) was found. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that more attention should be directed to older adults living in LTCF who have symptoms of depression and to their impacts on the negative self-rated health.

Frailty syndrome in Brazilian older people: a population based study.

This article aims to categorize elderly non-frail (NF), pre-frail (PF) and frail (FF) as to fast and slow gait speed. Compare NF, PF and FF, and analyze associations between fast or slow gait speed with clinical, functional and mental factors. 5,501 elderly (65 years or over; to the Frailty in Brazilian Older People Study), classified as NF, PF and FF (Fried´s frailty phenotype) and, in relation to fast gait speed (≥ 0.8m/s) and slow (< 0.8m/s). Age, sex, body mass index, muscular strength, advanced, instrumental and basic activities of daily living, falls, fear of falling and depressive symptoms were evaluated. Logistic regression analysis investigated associations between variables. The proportion of the slow elderly increased with fragility (NF = 12.39%, PF = 37.56%, FF = 88.83%, p < 0.01). Be woman, performance in activities of daily living, muscle strength and fall were associated with fragility syndrome. The association between frailty and adverse health outcomes reinforces its primacy as an indicator of the functional health of the elderly. Functional capacity, muscular strength, and falls should be evaluated considering their potential for reversibility.

Is the Leukocyte Telomere Length Associated with Decreased Physical Functional Capacity in the Elderly?

Leukocyte telomere length in the elderly has been positively associated with healthy living and physical activity. Factors that interfere with telomere shortening are similar to those that may be associated with decreasing functional capacity. To investigate the relationship between mean leukocyte telomere length and functional capacity in community-dwelling elderly individuals, this is an observational, cross sectional, multicentric study conducted with elderly Brazilian patients. Sample characterization was performed using a sociodemographic clinical questionnaire. Telomere length was evaluated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and functional capacity was evaluated by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). A total of 113 elderly individuals (age 70 ± 5.4 years; 75 women and 38 men) were enrolled in this study. Unexpectedly, it was found that lower relative telomere length was associated with better physical capacity in the global SPPB score. Although telomere shortening is observed with increasing age, it is not associated with decreased functional capacity. Functionality is broad and multidimensional, involving the connection of biopsychosocial and cultural factors. While functionality may not be considered a marker of functional aging in an elderly cohort, it can still play an important role in longitudinal studies, which attempt to elucidate process theories. Future studies should use different techniques to measure telomere lengths in subpopulations of cells.

Inflammatory mediators and the risk of falls among older women with acute low back pain: data from Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE)-Brazil.

PURPOSE: To investigate the association between plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1-ß, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, and the soluble TNF receptor 1 [sTNF-R1]), disability, and risk of falls in older women with acute low back pain (LBP). METHODS: This cross-sectional study comprised a subsample of older women from the Back Complaints in the Elders international cohort study. Plasma levels of IL-1-ß, IL-6, TNF-α, and sTNF-R1 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Pain was assessed using the Numerical Pain Scale and McGill Pain Questionnaire, while disability was measured using the Roland Morris Questionnaire and gait speed. Risk of falls was estimated using the Physiological Profile Assessment. Linear regression model was used to verify the association between independent variables and fall risk. RESULTS: One hundred and ten women (aged 69.97 ± 5.5 years) with acute LBP were included. The regression model showed an association between the risk of falls and IL-6 levels, pain, gait speed, and years of education. It also explained 21.2% of risk of falls variance. The model equation was: fall risk = 1.28 + (0.19 IL-6) + (0.02 quality of pain) + (- 0.71 gait speed) + (-0 .17 educational level). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed an association between risk of falls and IL-6, pain, gait speed, and educational level in older women with LBP. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

Physiological risk of falls, physical and aerobic capacity in community-dwelling elderly / Risco fisiológico de quedas, capacidade física e aeróbica em idosos comunitários

Abstract Introduction: Falls are multifactorial and are related to the aging process, reduced functional capacity, comorbidities, sensory deficits, muscle weakness, postural instability and decreased protective response. Objective: To verify the correlation between physiological risk of falls and physical and aerobic capacity of the community-dwelling elderly. Method: Participated elderly individuals from the community, aged ≥65 years, without distinction of sex, race, and/or social class. We excluded cognitive impairments, locomotion incapacity, neurological diseases or sequelae, and/or severe pain that prevented the performance of the tests. We evaluated risk of falls (Physiological Profile Assessment - PPA), physical capacity (Short Physical Performance Battery - SPPB) and aerobic capacity (Shuttle Walk Test - ISWT). Results: Participated 59 elderly (71.8±5.0 ys). The mean performance in PPA was 0.4±0.4; SPPB was 10.4±1.7 and ISWT was 281±111.7 meters. PPA presented a moderate and statistically significant correlation (P<0.001) for SPPB (r= -0.53) and ISWT (r= -0.46). Conclusion: There is a moderate correlation between the physiological risk of falls (PPA) and functional (SPPB) and aerobic capacity (ISWT). Preventive measures to reduce the risk of falls should include strategies to increase functional and aerobic capacity. It is suggested the systematic use of SPPB in clinical practice.

Resumo Introdução: Quedas são multifatoriais e estão relacionadas com o processo de envelhecimento, redução da capacidade funcional, presença de comorbidades, déficits sensoriais, fraqueza muscular, instabilidade postural e redução da resposta protetora. Objetivo: Verificar a correlação entre risco fisiológico de quedas e capacidade física e aeróbica em idosos comunitários. Método: Participaram idosos da comunidade, com 65 anos e mais, sem distinção de sexo, raça e/ou classe social. Excluiu-se aqueles com déficit cognitivo, incapacidade de locomoção, doenças e sequelas neurológicas e, dor que incapacitasse a realização dos testes. Avaliou-se risco de quedas (Physiological Profile Assessment - PPA), capacidade física (Short Physical Performance Battery - SPPB) e capacidade aeróbica (Incremental Shuttle Walk Test - ISWT). Resultados: Participaram 59 idosos (71,8±5,0 anos). A performance média no PPA foi 0,4±0,4; no SPPB foi 10,4±1,7 e no ISWT foi 281±111,7 metros. PPA apresentou uma negativa, moderada e estatisticamente significante correlação (p<0.001) com o SPPB (r= -0,53) e ISWT (r= -0,46). Conclusão: Medidas preventivas para reduzir o risco de quedas devem incluir estratégias para aumentar capacidade funcional e aeróbica. Sugere-se ainda, o uso do SPPB na prática clínica, como medida de rastreio.

Frailty syndrome in Brazilian older people: a population based study / Síndrome de fragilidade em idosos brasileiros: um estudo de base populacional

Abstract This article aims to categorize elderly non-frail (NF), pre-frail (PF) and frail (FF) as to fast and slow gait speed. Compare NF, PF and FF, and analyze associations between fast or slow gait speed with clinical, functional and mental factors. 5,501 elderly (65 years or over; to the Frailty in Brazilian Older People Study), classified as NF, PF and FF (Fried´s frailty phenotype) and, in relation to fast gait speed (≥ 0.8m/s) and slow (< 0.8m/s). Age, sex, body mass index, muscular strength, advanced, instrumental and basic activities of daily living, falls, fear of falling and depressive symptoms were evaluated. Logistic regression analysis investigated associations between variables. The proportion of the slow elderly increased with fragility (NF = 12.39%, PF = 37.56%, FF = 88.83%, p < 0.01). Be woman, performance in activities of daily living, muscle strength and fall were associated with fragility syndrome. The association between frailty and adverse health outcomes reinforces its primacy as an indicator of the functional health of the elderly. Functional capacity, muscular strength, and falls should be evaluated considering their potential for reversibility.

Resumo O artigo tem por objetivos categorizar idosos não frágeis (NF), pré-frágeis (PF) e frágeis (FF) quanto à velocidade rápida e lenta de marcha. Compara NF, PF e FF, e analisa associações entre velocidade de marcha rápida e lenta com fatores clínicos, funcionais e mentais. 5.501 idosos (65 anos ou mais; Estudo de Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros - Rede Fibra), classificados em NF, PF e FF (fenótipo de fragilidade de Fried) e, quanto a velocidade de marcha rápida (≥ 0.8m/s) e lenta (< 0.8m/s). Avaliou-se idade, sexo, índice de massa corpórea, força muscular, atividades instrumentais, básicas e avançadas de vida diária, quedas, medo de quedas e sintomas depressivos. Análise de regressão logística para verificar associação entre variáveis. A proporção de idosos lentos aumentou com a fragilidade (NF = 12,39%, PF = 37,56%, FF = 88,83%, p < 0,01). Ser mulher, desempenho nas atividades de vida diária, força muscular e relato de quedas associou-se com a fragilidade. A associação entre fragilidade e eventos adversos de saúde reforçou sua importância em ser um indicador da saúde funcional dos idosos. Capacidade funcional, força muscular e ocorrência de quedas devem ser avaliados, considerando seu potencial de reversibilidade.

Concurrent validity of handgrip strength between the jamar and bulb dynamometers in women with rheumatoid arthitis / Validade concorrente da força de preensão palmar entre os dinamômetros Jamar e de bulbo em mulheres com artrite reumatoide / Validez concurrente de la fuerza de prensión palmar entre los dinamómetros Jamar y de bulbo en mujeres con artritis reumatoide

Abstract Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive disease that causes deformation and constant joint damage. Handgrip strength (HGS) has been used by several health professionals in clinical practice as a mechanism for assessing muscle strength and overall performance. Objective: To perform the concordance analysis of handgrip strength measurements using a pneumatic dynamometer (Bulb) and a hydraulic dynamometer (Jamar) in women with rheumatoid arthritis. Method: The HGS measurements by the two dynamometers followed the norms of the American Society of Hand Therapists. The concordance between measurements was performed by the Bland-Altman method. Significance level was 5%. Results: In total, 41 women (60.63 ± 8.35 years) participated in the study. Analysis showed that the measures between the two dynamometers were not concordant (bias = 9.04, p < 0.01), there was a linear relationship between the difference of the measures and the mean (r = 0.73, p < 0.01), and the limits of agreement were very extensive (−2.74 to 20.81). Conclusion: Assuming that the rheumatoid arthritis compromises the hands, with a consequent decrease in HGS, further exploration of the subject is suggested in future studies to define the best measure for clinical practice at the different levels of health care. However, since there are many different dynamometers, we suggest to better explore the agreement between the measurements obtained by them in populations under different conditions.

Resumo Introdução: Artrite reumatóide (AR) é uma doença progressiva que causa deformação e comprometimento articular. A força de preensão palmar (FPP) tem sido usada por vários profissionais de saúde, na prática clínica, para avaliar força muscular e desempenho. Objetivo: Analisar a concordância das medidas de força de preensão palmar usando o dinamômetro pneumático (Bulbo) e hidráulico (Jamar) em mulheres com artrite reumatoide. Método: As medidas de FPP pelos dois dinamômetros seguiram as normas da American Society of Hand Therapists. A concordância entre as medidas foi por meio do método de Bland-Altman. Nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Participaram 41 mulheres (60,63 ± 8,35 anos). A análise entre os dois dinamômetros demonstrou não haver concordância (bias = 9,04, p < 0,01), com uma relação linear entre a diferença das medidas e a média (r = 0,73, p < 0,01) e, os limites de concordância foram muito extensos (-2,74 to 20,81). Conclusão: Como a artrite reumatoide compromete as mãos com consequente diminuição da FPP, é importante explorar melhor este tema para definir a melhor medida para a prática clínica nos diferentes níveis de atenção à saúde. No entanto, devido ao grande número de tipo de dinamômetros, sugere-se novos estudos sobre a concordância destas medidas em populações de diferentes condições.

Resumen Introducción: La artritis reumatoide (AR) es una enfermedad progresiva que causa deformación y compromiso articular. La fuerza de prensión palmar (FPP) ha sido utilizada por varios profesionales de la salud, en la práctica clínica, para evaluar la fuerza muscular y el rendimiento. Objetivo: Analizar la concordancia de las medidas de fuerza de prensión palmar usando el dinamómetro neumático (Bulbo) e hidráulico (Jamar) en mujeres con artritis reumatoide. Método: Las medidas de FPP por los dos dinamómetros siguieron las normas de la American Society of Hand Therapists. La concordancia entre las medidas fue mediante el método de Bland-Altman. Nivel de significancia del 5%. Resultados: Participaron 41 mujeres (60,63 ± 8,35 años). El análisis entre los dos dinamómetros demostró no haber concordancia (bias = 9,04, p < 0,01), con una relación lineal entre la diferencia de las medidas y la media (r = 0,73, p < 0,01), los límites de concordancia fueron muy extensos (-2,74 a 20,81). Conclusión: Como la artritis reumatoide compromete las manos con consecuente disminución de la FPP, es importante explorar mejor este tema para definir la mejor medida para la práctica clínica en los diferentes niveles de atención a la salud. Sin embargo, debido al gran número de dinamómetros, se sugiere nuevos estudios sobre la concordancia de estas medidas en poblaciones de diferentes condiciones.

Força de preensão palmar e desempenho funcional em mulheres de meia-idade e idosas com artrite reumatoide / Fuerza de prensión manual y rendimiento funcional en mujeres de mediana edad y ancianas con artritis reumatoide / Handgrip strength and functional performance in middle-aged and older women with rheumatoid arthritis

RESUMO A força de preensão palmar em mulheres com artrite reumatoide pode estar comprometida devido à presença de deformidades e restrições funcionais impostas pela doença. Existem poucas informações na literatura sobre a diferença de força de preensão e funcionalidade em mulheres adultas e idosas com artrite reumatoide. O objetivo foi comparar a força de preensão palmar, capacidade funcional, e fadiga entre mulheres adultas (meia idade) e idosas com artrite reumatoide e verificar a associação destas variáveis nas duas faixas etárias. Participaram mulheres com artrite reumatoide, acima de 45 anos, com marcha independente, divididas em grupo de adultas (45 a 59 anos) e idosas (60 anos e mais). Foram mensuradas a força de preensão palmar (dinamômetro Jamar®), capacidade funcional (velocidade de marcha) e fadiga (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy); feitas comparações entre grupos de idade pelo teste t-Student independente, e associação entre as variáveis, em cada grupo, pelo teste de correlação de Pearson. Foi verificado nível de significância de 5% e a força de preensão palmar foi maior no grupo de idosas (p=0,01). No grupo de adultas, houve associação entre capacidade funcional e fadiga (r=0,53; p=0,01) e no grupo de idosas, houve associação entre força de preensão palmar e velocidade de marcha (r=0,51; p=0,02). Os resultados demonstraram que as idosas estavam em melhores condições musculares. Parâmetros indicados, como marcadores de desempenho funcional e muscular em idosas demonstraram estar associados, confirmando o uso destes marcadores nesta condição específica.

RESUMEN La fuerza de prensión manual en mujeres con artritis reumatoide puede verse comprometida debido a la presencia de deformidades y restricciones funcionales impuestas por la enfermedad. Hay poca información en la literatura sobre la diferencia en la fuerza de agarre y la funcionalidad en mujeres adultas y mayores con artritis reumatoide. El objetivo fue comparar la fuerza de la empuñadura, la capacidad funcional y la fatiga entre mujeres adultas (de mediana edad) y ancianas con artritis reumatoide y verificar la asociación de estas variables en ambos grupos de edad. Participaron mujeres con artritis reumatoide, mayores de 45 años, con marcha independiente, divididas en grupos de adultos (45 a 59 años) y ancianos (60 años y más). Se midieron la fuerza de agarre de la mano (dinamómetro Jamar®), la capacidad funcional (velocidad de marcha) y la fatiga (Evaluación funcional de la terapia de enfermedades crónicas). Se realizaron comparaciones entre grupos de edad mediante la prueba t de Student independiente, y la asociación entre las variables en cada grupo mediante la prueba de correlación de Pearson. Nivel de significancia del 5%. La fuerza de agarre fue mayor en el grupo de ancianos (p=0.01). En el grupo de adultos, hubo una asociación entre la capacidad funcional y la fatiga (r=0.53; p=0.01), y en el grupo de ancianos, hubo una asociación entre la fuerza de prensión y la velocidad de la marcha (r=0.51; p=0.02). Los resultados mostraron que las mujeres mayores estaban en mejor condición muscular. Los parámetros indicados como marcadores de rendimiento funcional y muscular en mujeres de edad avanzada se asociaron, lo que confirma el uso de estos marcadores en esta condición específica.

ABSTRACT The handgrip strength in women with rheumatoid arthritis may be compromised, considering the presence of deformities and functional restrictions imposed by the disease. There is insufficient information on the difference in handgrip strength and functionality among middle-aged and older women with rheumatoid arthritis. The aim was to compare handgrip strength, functional capacity and fatigue among middle-aged and older women with rheumatoid arthritis and to verify the association of these variables in the different age groups. Women with rheumatoid arthritis, older than 45 years, with independent gait, were divided into groups of middle-aged (45-59 years) and older women (60 years and over). Handgrip strength (Jamar® dynamometer), functional capacity (gait speed) and fatigue (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy) were measured. Statistical comparisons were made between groups by the independent Student's t-test and the association between variables in each group by Pearson's correlation test. The significance level considered was 5%. There was a significant difference in handgrip strength between groups (p=0.01). In the adult group, there was an association between functional capacity and fatigue (r=0.53, p=0.01) and in the elderly women group, there was an association between handgrip strength and gait speed (r=0.51, p=0.02). The results showed that the older women were in better muscle conditions. Parameters indicated as markers of functional and muscle performance in elderly women were shown to be associated, confirming the use of these markers in this specific condition.

Influence of the number and severity of comorbidities in the course of acute non-specific low back pain in older adults: longitudinal results from the Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE-Brazil).

BACKGROUND: The presence of comorbidities is quite common in older adults. However, the effects of comorbidities on the course of acute low back pain (LBP) are not fully understood. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of the number and severity of comorbidities on the severity of pain and disability 3 months from baseline in people with an acute episode of non-specific LBP. METHODS: Data from the Back Complaints in the Elders study, a cohort that enrolled 602 community-dwelling older adults with acute LBP at baseline, were used in these analyses. Comorbidities, pain intensity and disability were assessed using the Self-Administered Comorbidities Questionnaire (SCQ), the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), respectively. Age, sex, marital status, education, income and body mass index were covariates. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 67.6 ± 7.0 years. Both pain and disability scores decreased from 7.2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 7.0-7.4) to 5.8 (95% CI 5.5-6.1) in NRS and from 13.5 (95% CI 13.0-14.1) to 12.0 (95% CI 11.4-12.7) in RMDQ 3 months from baseline. The linear regression analysis showed a significant association between SCQ scores at baseline and pain (coefficient = 0.16, 95% CI 0.08-0.24; P < 0.001) or disability (coefficient = 0.29, 95% CI 0.16-0.41; P < 0.001) scores at the 3-month follow-up, after adjusting for confounders. Participants with highest SCQ scores were less likely to report improvement of at least 30% in pain (OR: 0.41, 95% CI 0.22-0.79; P = 0.008) and disability (OR: 0.42, 95% CI 0.28-0.85; P = 0.015). CONCLUSION: The presence and severity of comorbidities were independently associated with the prognosis of acute non-specific LBP in older adults.

Declínio da velocidade da marcha e desfechos de saúde em idosos: dados da Rede Fibra / Disminución de la velocidad de la marcha y resultados en la salud de los ancianos: datos de la Red Fibra / Decreased gait speed and health outcomes in older adults: Rede FIBRA's data

RESUMO A velocidade da marcha (VM) tem sido considerada um marcador de saúde em idosos capaz de predizer desfechos adversos de saúde, mas a compreensão de fatores associados a ela ainda é limitada e controversa. O objetivo deste trabalho é identificar desfechos adversos de saúde relacionados ao declínio da velocidade de marcha em idosos comunitários. Trata-se de estudo transversal e multicêntrico, que avaliou o autorrelato de doenças crônicas e de hospitalização no último ano, polifarmácia e velocidade de marcha. Utilizou-se análise de regressão logística para estimar os efeitos de cada variável independente na chance de os idosos apresentarem declínio na velocidade de marcha inferior (VM<0,8m/s) (α=0,05). Participaram da pesquisa 5.501 idosos. A menor velocidade da marcha mostrou-se associada a portadores de doenças cardíacas (OR=2,06; IC: 1,67-2,54), respiratórias (OR=3,25; IC: 2,02-5,29), reumáticas (OR=2,16; IC: 1,79-2,52) e/ou depressão (OR=2,51; IC: 2,10-3,14), hospitalizados no último ano (OR=1,51; IC: 1,21-1,85) e polifarmácia (OR=2,14; IC: 1,80-2,54). Assim, os resultados indicaram que idosos com velocidade de marcha menor que 0,8m/s apresentam maior risco de eventos adversos de saúde. Dessa forma, sugere-se que a velocidade de marcha não seja negligenciada na avaliação de idosos comunitários, inclusive na atenção básica.

RESUMEN La velocidad de la marcha (VM) se ha considerado un marcador de salud en los ancianos capaz de predecir resultados adversos en la salud, pero la comprensión de sus factores asociados todavía es limitada y controvertida. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo identificar los resultados adversos para la salud relacionados con la disminución de la velocidad de la marcha en los ancianos comunitarios. Se trata de un estudio transversal y multicéntrico, el que evaluó el autoinforme de enfermedades crónicas y de la hospitalización en el último año, la polifarmacia y la velocidad de la marcha. Se utilizó el análisis de regresión logística para estimar los efectos de cada variable independiente sobre la posibilidad de que los ancianos presenten una disminución más baja en la velocidad de la marcha (VM<0,8 m/s) (α=0,05). Participaron en el estudio 5.501 ancianos. La velocidad de marcha más baja estuvo asociada a portadores de enfermedades cardíacas (OR=2,06; IC: 1,67-2,54), respiratorias (OR=3,25; IC: 2,02-5,29), reumáticas (OR=2,16; IC: 1,79-2,52) y/o depresión (OR=2,51; IC: 2,10-3,14), hospitalizados en el último año (OR=1,51; IC: 1,21-1,85) y polifarmacia (OR=2,14; IC: 1,80-2,54). De esta manera, los resultados indicaron que los ancianos con velocidades de marcha por debajo de 0,8m/s presentan un mayor riesgo de eventos adversos para la salud. Por lo tanto, se sugiere que la velocidad de la marcha no debe ser descuidada en la evaluación de ancianos comunitarios, incluso en la atención primaria.

Abstract Gait speed (GS) can predict adverse health outcomes. However, an understanding of its associated factors is still limited and with some controversy. The objective of this study was to identify adverse health outcomes related to the decline in gait speed in community-dwelling older adults. This is a cross-sectional study that evaluated records of chronic diseases and hospitalization in the last year, polypharmacy, and gait speed. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the effects of each independent variable on the chance of older adults presenting a decline in gait speed (GS<0.8 m/s) (α=5%). In total, 5,501 older adults participated. Brazilian older adults with heart diseases (OR=2.06; 1.67-2.54 CI), respiratory diseases (OR=3.25; 2.02-5.29 CI), rheumatic (OR=2.16; 1.79-2.52 CI) and/ or depression diseases (OR=2.51; 2.10-3.14 CI); hospitalized in the last year (OR=1.51; 1.21-1.85 CI) and under polypharmacy (OR=2.14; 1.80-2.54 CI) were associated with lower gait speed. Thus, the results showed that those with gait speed lower than 0.8 m/s are at higher risk of some adverse health events. Therefore, it is suggested that gait speed should not be neglected in the evaluation in community-dwelling older adults, including basic health care.