Frailty and functional status among older adults with cognitive impairment: data from the second wave of the FIBRA study.

Frailty is defined as a recognizable state of increased vulnerability resulting from age-associated decline of function in various physiological systems, such that the ability to deal with acute or everyday stressors is compromised. Objective: The aim of the study was to characterize the sample of older adults with cognitive impairment, according to the frailty status indirectly assessed by family members, other clinical and sociodemographic variables; and to assess the overlap of clinical conditions evaluated in this sample with cognitive impairment. Methods: Data were extracted from the follow-up database of the Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (FIBRA) study (2016-2017). The sample consisted of 130 elderly people with cognitive impairment assessed by the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). The scores for the Clinical Dementia Scale (CDR), Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia and Functional Activities Questionnaire were described. Frailty was indirectly measured through questions answered by family members about the five criteria that compose the frailty phenotype. Results: The sample consisted mostly of older women (n=91) with a mean age of 82.4 (SD=5.3) years, mean schooling of 3.3 years (SD=3.07), widowed (47.7%) and who lived with children and/or grandchildren (68%). More than half had multimorbidity (74.90%), 39.5% had depression symptoms suggestive of major depression, 57% had impaired functionality, 49.3% were frail, 37.6% pre-frail, and 13.10% robust. Conclusion: Among older adults with cognitive impairment, frailty and functional limitations are common.

A fragilidade é definida como um estado reconhecível de vulnerabilidade aumentada resultante do declínio da função associado à idade em vários sistemas fisiológicos, de modo que a capacidade de lidar com estressores agudos ou cotidianos fica comprometida. Objetivo: Caracterizar uma amostra de pessoas idosas com comprometimento cognitivo, segundo o estado de fragilidade, avaliado de forma indireta por familiares, assim como outras variáveis clínicas e sociodemográficas; e avaliar a sobreposição das condições clínicas avaliadas nesta amostra com o comprometimento cognitivo. Métodos: Os dados foram extraídos do banco de dados de acompanhamento do estudo Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros (FIBRA - 2016-2017). A amostra foi composta por 130 idosos com comprometimento cognitivo avaliado pelo Mini-Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM). Foram descritos os escores da Escala Clínica de Demência (CDR), da Escala Cornell de Depressão em Demência e do Questionário de Atividades Funcionais. A fragilidade foi mensurada indiretamente por meio de questões respondidas junto aos familiares sobre os cinco critérios que compõem o fenótipo de fragilidade. Resultados: A amostra foi composta em sua maioria por mulheres idosas (n=91) com idade média de 82,4 (DP=5,3) anos, escolaridade média de 3,3 anos (DP=3,07), viúvas (47,7%) e que viviam com filhos e/ou netos (68%). Mais da metade apresentava multimorbidade (74,90%), 39,5% apresentavam sintomas depressivos sugestivos de depressão maior, 57% tinham funcionalidade prejudicada, 49,3% eram frágeis, 37,6% pré-frágeis e 13,10% robustos. Conclusão: Entre idosos com alterações cognitivas, é comum a co-ocorrência de fragilidade e de limitações funcionais.

Higher purpose in life and education were associated with better cognition among older adults.

BACKGROUND: With aging, some cognitive abilities change because of neurobiological processes. Cognition may also be influenced by psychosocial aspects. OBJECTIVE: To describe the relationship between a measure of neuroticism, depression symptoms, purpose in life, and cognitive performance in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional analysis based on the data from the second wave of the Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (FIBRA) study, carried out between 2016 and 2017. The sample consisted of 419 older people (≥ 72 years old) cognitively unimpaired and mostly with low education. The variables of interest were sociodemographic, Neuroticism domain from the NEO-PI-R, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Purpose in Life (PiL) scale, and a cognitive composite score which included the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and the scores for the sub-items of the Mini-Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination (M-ACE), namely, Verbal Fluency (VF) - Animal, Clock Drawing Test (CDT), Episodic Memory (name and address). RESULTS: There was a greater number of women (70%), with older age (median = 80 years, IQR = 77-82), and low education (median = 4 years, IQR = 2-5). In the bivariate correlations, years of education (ρ = 0.415; p < 0.001) and PiL (ρ = 0.220; p < 0.001) were positively associated with cognition. Neuroticism (ρ = -0.175; p < 0.001) and depression symptoms (ρ = -0.185; p < 0.001) were negatively associated with cognition. In the logistic regression, after including confounding variables, the associations between cognition and PiL (OR = 2.04; p = 0.007) and education (OR = 1.32; p < 0.001) remained significant. CONCLUSION: Low PiL and low education levels were associated with worse cognition among older adults. Such results may be of relevance in programs that aim to improve cognition among older adults.

ANTECEDENTES: Com o envelhecimento, algumas habilidades cognitivas mudam devido a processos neurobiológicos. A cognição também pode ser influenciada por aspectos psicossociais. OBJETIVO: Descrever as relações entre uma medida de neuroticismo, sintomas depressivos, propósito de vida e o desempenho cognitivo em pessoas idosas residentes na comunidade. MéTODOS: Trata-se de uma análise transversal com base nos dados da segunda onda do estudo de Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros (FIBRA), realizado entre 2016 e 2017. A amostra foi composta por 419 pessoas idosas (≥ 72 anos) cognitivamente saudáveis e em maior parte com baixa escolaridade. As variáveis de interesse foram as sociodemográficas, domínio Neuroticismo do NEO-PI-R, Escala de Depressão Geriátrica (EDG) e Escala de Propósito de Vida (PV) e um escore cognitivo composto que incluiu o Miniexame de Estado Mental (MEEM) e as pontuações dos subitens do Miniexame Cognitivo de Addenbrooke (M-ACE), a saber, Fluência Verbal (FV) Animal, Teste do Desenho do Relógio (TDR) e Memória Episódica (nome e endereço). RESULTADOS: Houve um maior número de mulheres (70%), com idade elevada (mediana = 80 anos, IIQ = 77-82) e baixa escolaridade (mediana = 4 anos, IIQ = 2-5). Nas correlações bivariadas, anos de escolaridade (ρ = 0,415; p < 0,001) e PV (ρ = 0,220; p < 0,001) foram positivamente associadas à cognição. Neuroticismo (ρ = -0,175; p < 0,001) e sintomas depressivos (ρ = -0,185; p < 0,001) foram negativamente associados à cognição. Na regressão logística, após a inclusão de variáveis de confusão, as associações entre cognição e PV (OR = 2,04; p = 0,007) e escolaridade (OR = 1,32; p < 0,001) permaneceram significativas. CONCLUSãO: Baixo PV e baixa escolaridade foram associados à pior cognição em idosos. Tais resultados podem ser relevantes em programas que visam a melhorar a cognição entre pessoas idosas.

Frailty and functional status among older adults with cognitive impairment: data from the second wave of the FIBRA study / Fragilidade e funcionalidade entre idosos com alterações cognitivas: dados da segunda onda do estudo FIBRA

ABSTRACT. Frailty is defined as a recognizable state of increased vulnerability resulting from age-associated decline of function in various physiological systems, such that the ability to deal with acute or everyday stressors is compromised. Objective: The aim of the study was to characterize the sample of older adults with cognitive impairment, according to the frailty status indirectly assessed by family members, other clinical and sociodemographic variables; and to assess the overlap of clinical conditions evaluated in this sample with cognitive impairment. Methods: Data were extracted from the follow-up database of the Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (FIBRA) study (2016-2017). The sample consisted of 130 elderly people with cognitive impairment assessed by the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). The scores for the Clinical Dementia Scale (CDR), Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia and Functional Activities Questionnaire were described. Frailty was indirectly measured through questions answered by family members about the five criteria that compose the frailty phenotype. Results: The sample consisted mostly of older women (n=91) with a mean age of 82.4 (SD=5.3) years, mean schooling of 3.3 years (SD=3.07), widowed (47.7%) and who lived with children and/or grandchildren (68%). More than half had multimorbidity (74.90%), 39.5% had depression symptoms suggestive of major depression, 57% had impaired functionality, 49.3% were frail, 37.6% pre-frail, and 13.10% robust. Conclusion: Among older adults with cognitive impairment, frailty and functional limitations are common.

RESUMO. A fragilidade é definida como um estado reconhecível de vulnerabilidade aumentada resultante do declínio da função associado à idade em vários sistemas fisiológicos, de modo que a capacidade de lidar com estressores agudos ou cotidianos fica comprometida. Objetivo: Caracterizar uma amostra de pessoas idosas com comprometimento cognitivo, segundo o estado de fragilidade, avaliado de forma indireta por familiares, assim como outras variáveis clínicas e sociodemográficas; e avaliar a sobreposição das condições clínicas avaliadas nesta amostra com o comprometimento cognitivo. Métodos: Os dados foram extraídos do banco de dados de acompanhamento do estudo Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros (FIBRA - 2016-2017). A amostra foi composta por 130 idosos com comprometimento cognitivo avaliado pelo Mini-Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM). Foram descritos os escores da Escala Clínica de Demência (CDR), da Escala Cornell de Depressão em Demência e do Questionário de Atividades Funcionais. A fragilidade foi mensurada indiretamente por meio de questões respondidas junto aos familiares sobre os cinco critérios que compõem o fenótipo de fragilidade. Resultados: A amostra foi composta em sua maioria por mulheres idosas (n=91) com idade média de 82,4 (DP=5,3) anos, escolaridade média de 3,3 anos (DP=3,07), viúvas (47,7%) e que viviam com filhos e/ou netos (68%). Mais da metade apresentava multimorbidade (74,90%), 39,5% apresentavam sintomas depressivos sugestivos de depressão maior, 57% tinham funcionalidade prejudicada, 49,3% eram frágeis, 37,6% pré-frágeis e 13,10% robustos. Conclusão: Entre idosos com alterações cognitivas, é comum a co-ocorrência de fragilidade e de limitações funcionais.

Relationship between chronic pain, depressive symptoms, and functional disability in community-dwelling older adults: mediating role of frailty.

BACKGROUND: Borim et al. showed that older adults with chronic pain exhibited more depressive symptoms and frailty components. Depressive symptoms were associated with more frailty components, and those with more depressive symptoms and frailty faced greater limitations in IADL performance. Frailty appears to mediate the pathway from chronic pain to functional impairment Chronic pain is directly associated with depressive symptoms and frailty. Chronic pain is not directly associated with functional disability. Depression and frailty are both directly associated with functional disabilities. Frailty mediates the association between chronic pain and functional disability. Depression; Disability evaluation; Frailty; Frail elderly. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the direct and indirect effects of chronic pain, depressive symptoms, frailty components, and functional disability through a pathway analysis approach in a sample of community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: Data of 419 participants were cross-sectionally evaluated for the presence of depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale [15 items]), physical frailty components (phenotype criteria), chronic pain, and limitations in performing instrumental activities of daily living (functional disability scale by Lawton and Brody). Structural equation modeling via path analysis was used to explore the direct and indirect effects among these four variables. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. RESULTS: Of the total participants, 69.8% were women and 59.3% had low education (1-4 years); the mean age was 80.3±4.6 years. Chronic pain and depressive symptoms were directly related and were associated to frailty. The number of frailty components and depressive symptoms were directly associated with functional disability. Frailty had an indirect effect on the association between chronic pain, depressive symptoms, and functional disabilities. CONCLUSION: The pathway from chronic pain and depressive symptoms to functional disability is potentially mediated by the number of frailty components.

[Loneliness and its association with sociodemographic and health indicators in Brazilian adults and older adults: ELSI-Brazil]. / Solidão e sua associação com indicadores sociodemográficos e de saúde em adultos e idosos brasileiros: ELSI-Brasil.

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of loneliness and its associations with sociodemographic and health indicators in a nationally representative sample of Brazilian adults and older adults. Data from the baseline (2015-2016) of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil) were analyzed, and participants with complete information on the variables of interest (n = 7,957) were included. Loneliness was the outcome variable, which was based on the question "How often do you feel alone or lonely: always, sometimes, or never?" Independent variables included sociodemographic indicators and health behaviors and conditions. The analyses included the Pearson's chi-square test for calculating relative frequencies, and Poisson regression for estimating prevalence ratios (PR) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The prevalence of always feeling lonely was 16.8%; sometimes, 31.7%; and never, 51.5%. Significant associations were observed between always feeling lonely and depression (PR = 4.49; 95%CI: 3.93-5.11), living alone (PR = 2.44; 95%CI: 2.12-2.82), low education level (PR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.61-2.32), being a woman (PR = 1.53; 95%CI: 1.36-1.72), self-rated poor/very poor health (PR = 1.48; 95%CI: 1.27-1.73), and poor/very poor sleep quality (PR = 1.21; 95%CI: 1.05-1.41). Given its potential to harm quality of life, it is necessary to longitudinally understand the trajectories of loneliness and associated variables, and to use this knowledge to design public policies and health interventions that could benefit the biopsychosocial well-being of Brazilian adults and older adults.

O objetivo foi investigar a prevalência de solidão e suas associações com indicadores sociodemográficos e de saúde em amostra nacionalmente representativa de adultos e idosos brasileiros. Foram analisados dados da linha de base (2015-2016) do Estudo Longitudinal da Saúde dos Idosos Brasileiros (ELSI-Brasil) e incluídos os participantes com informações completas nas variáveis de interesse (n = 7.957). Solidão foi a variável de desfecho, cuja medida baseou-se na pergunta "Com que frequência o(a) senhor(a) se sentiu sozinho(a) ou solitário(a): sempre, algumas vezes ou nunca?". As variáveis independentes compreenderam indicadores sociodemográficos e comportamentos e condições de saúde. As análises incluíram o teste qui-quadrado de Pearson, para cálculo das frequências relativas, e a regressão de Poisson, para estimativa das razões de prevalência (RP) e respectivos intervalos de 95% de confiança (IC95%). A prevalência de sempre sentir solidão foi de 16,8%; de algumas vezes, 31,7%; e de nunca, 51,5%. Foram observadas associações significativas entre sempre sentir solidão e depressão (RP = 4,49; IC95%: 3,93-5,11), morar só (RP = 2,44; IC95%: 2,12-2,82), baixa escolaridade (RP = 1,93; IC95%: 1,61-2,32), sexo feminino (RP = 1,53; IC95%: 1,36-1,72), autoavaliação de saúde ruim/muito ruim (RP = 1,48; IC95%: 1,27-1,73) e qualidade do sono ruim/muito ruim (RP = 1,21; IC95%: 1,05-1,41). Dado seu potencial de prejuízo à qualidade de vida, é necessário conhecer longitudinalmente as trajetórias da solidão e as variáveis associadas e usar esse conhecimento para o delineamento de políticas públicas e intervenções em saúde que poderão beneficiar o bem-estar biopsicossocial de adultos e idosos brasileiros.

El objetivo fue investigar la prevalencia de la soledad y sus asociaciones con indicadores sociodemográficos y de salud en una muestra nacionalmente representativa de adultos y ancianos brasileños. Se analizaron datos de la línea base (2015-2016) del Estudio Longitudinal de la Salud de los Ancianos Brasileños (ELSI-Brasil) y se incluyeron los participantes con información completa en las variables de interés (n = 7.957). La soledad fue la variable de desenlace, cuya medida se basó en la pregunta "¿Con qué frecuencia te sentiste solo(a) o solitario(a): siempre, a veces o nunca?". Las variables independientes incluyeron indicadores sociodemográficos y comportamientos y condiciones de salud. Los análisis incluyeron la prueba de chi-cuadrado de Pearson para calcular las frecuencias relativas, y la regresión de Poisson, para estimar las razones de prevalencia (RP) y los respectivos intervalos de 95% de confianza (IC95%). La prevalencia de sentirse siempre solo fue de 16,8%; a veces, 31,7%; y nunca, 51,5%. Se observaron asociaciones significativas entre sentir siempre soledad y depresión (RP = 4,49; IC95%: 3,93-5,11), vivir solo (RP = 2,44; IC95%: 2,12-2,82), baja escolaridad (RP = 1,93; IC95%: 1,61-2,32), sexo femenino (RP = 1,53; IC95%: 1,36-1,72), autoevaluación de salud mala/muy mala (RP = 1,48; IC95%: 1,27-1,73) y calidad del sueño mala/muy mala (RP = 1,21; IC95%: 1,05-1,41). Dado su potencial para perjudicar la calidad de vida, es necesario conocer longitudinalmente las trayectorias de la soledad y las variables asociadas, y usar ese conocimiento para diseñar políticas públicas e intervenciones en salud que puedan beneficiar el bienestar biopsicosocial de adultos y ancianos brasileños.

[Influence of multimorbidity patterns on the activities in the day-to-day lives of the elderly: nine-year follow-up of the Fibra Study]. / Influência de padrões de multimorbidade nas atividades de vida diária da pessoa idosa: seguimento de nove anos do Estudo Fibra.

The scope of this article was to evaluate the influence of multimorbidity and associated effects on the activities in the day-to-day lives of community-dwelling elderly individuals. It involved a cohort study with data from the FIBRA Study, the baseline (2008-2009) and follow-up (2016-2017). The basic activities in daily living (ADL) were evaluated using Katz's index, and the chronic diseases were classified as: (1) multimorbidity and multimorbidity patterns; (2) cardiopulmonary; (3) vascular-metabolic; and (4) mental-musculoskeletal. The chi-square test and Poisson regression data were used for analysis. A total of 861 older adults with no functional dependency at baseline were analyzed. Elderly individuals with multimorbidity (RR = 1.58; 95%CI: 1.19-2.10) and classified according to cardiopulmonary (RR = 2.43; 95%CI: 1.77-3.33), vascular-metabolic (RR = 1.50; 95%CI: 1.19-1.89) and mental-musculoskeletal (RR = 1.30; 95%CI: 1.03-1.65) had a higher risk of presenting functional decline in ADL in the follow-up compared to those who didn't have the same disease patterns. Multimorbidity and its patterns increased the risk of functional disability in older adults over the nine-year period.

O objetivo foi avaliar a influência da multimorbidade e seus padrões nas atividades básicas de vida diária da pessoa idosa residente na comunidade. Trata-se de estudo de coorte com dados provenientes do Estudo FIBRA, linha de base (2008-2009) e seguimento (2016-2017). As atividades básicas de vida diária (ABVD) foram avaliadas pelo questionário de Katz e as doenças crônicas foram classificadas como (1) multimorbidade e padrões de multimorbidade: (2) cardiopulmonar; (3) vascular-metabólico; e (4) mental-musculoesquelético. Para a análise de dados, utilizou-se o teste qui-quadrado e a regressão de Poisson. Foram analisados 861 indivíduos sem limitação para ABVD na linha de base. As pessoas idosas com multimorbidade (RR = 1,58; IC95%: 1,19-2,10) e classificados nos padrões cardiopulmonar (RR = 2,43; IC95%: 1,77-3,33), vascular-metabólico (RR = 1,50; IC95%: 1,19-1,89) e mental-musculoesquelético (RR = 1,30; IC95%: 1,03-1,65) tiveram maior risco de apresentar declínio funcional nas ABVD no seguimento em comparação aos que não tinham os mesmos padrões de doenças. A multimorbidade e seus padrões aumentaram o risco de incapacidade na pessoa idosa ao longo de nove anos.

Influência de padrões de multimorbidade nas atividades de vida diária da pessoa idosa: seguimento de nove anos do Estudo Fibra / Influence of multimorbidity patterns on the activities in the day-to-day lives of the elderly: nine-year follow-up of the Fibra Study

Resumo O objetivo foi avaliar a influência da multimorbidade e seus padrões nas atividades básicas de vida diária da pessoa idosa residente na comunidade. Trata-se de estudo de coorte com dados provenientes do Estudo FIBRA, linha de base (2008-2009) e seguimento (2016-2017). As atividades básicas de vida diária (ABVD) foram avaliadas pelo questionário de Katz e as doenças crônicas foram classificadas como (1) multimorbidade e padrões de multimorbidade: (2) cardiopulmonar; (3) vascular-metabólico; e (4) mental-musculoesquelético. Para a análise de dados, utilizou-se o teste qui-quadrado e a regressão de Poisson. Foram analisados 861 indivíduos sem limitação para ABVD na linha de base. As pessoas idosas com multimorbidade (RR = 1,58; IC95%: 1,19-2,10) e classificados nos padrões cardiopulmonar (RR = 2,43; IC95%: 1,77-3,33), vascular-metabólico (RR = 1,50; IC95%: 1,19-1,89) e mental-musculoesquelético (RR = 1,30; IC95%: 1,03-1,65) tiveram maior risco de apresentar declínio funcional nas ABVD no seguimento em comparação aos que não tinham os mesmos padrões de doenças. A multimorbidade e seus padrões aumentaram o risco de incapacidade na pessoa idosa ao longo de nove anos.

Abstract The scope of this article was to evaluate the influence of multimorbidity and associated effects on the activities in the day-to-day lives of community-dwelling elderly individuals. It involved a cohort study with data from the FIBRA Study, the baseline (2008-2009) and follow-up (2016-2017). The basic activities in daily living (ADL) were evaluated using Katz's index, and the chronic diseases were classified as: (1) multimorbidity and multimorbidity patterns; (2) cardiopulmonary; (3) vascular-metabolic; and (4) mental-musculoskeletal. The chi-square test and Poisson regression data were used for analysis. A total of 861 older adults with no functional dependency at baseline were analyzed. Elderly individuals with multimorbidity (RR = 1.58; 95%CI: 1.19-2.10) and classified according to cardiopulmonary (RR = 2.43; 95%CI: 1.77-3.33), vascular-metabolic (RR = 1.50; 95%CI: 1.19-1.89) and mental-musculoskeletal (RR = 1.30; 95%CI: 1.03-1.65) had a higher risk of presenting functional decline in ADL in the follow-up compared to those who didn't have the same disease patterns. Multimorbidity and its patterns increased the risk of functional disability in older adults over the nine-year period.

Cognitive Impairment Predicts Sarcopenia 9 Years Later among Older Adults.

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

Interventions used by health professionals in older adults with low levels of health literacy: a scoping review / Intervenções utilizadas por profissionais de saúde em idosos com baixo letramento em saúde: uma revisão de escopo

This scoping review sought to identify, synthesize, and assess the available evidence on the aims and effects of interventions used by health professionals in older adults with low levels of health literacy. Relevant articles were selected from the databases from April 2017 to April 2020. The Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis was used for conducting this scoping review, and a total of 22 studies were reviewed. The positive effects observed for each type of intervention, yielding significant results for some of the outcomes and improvements in intragroup scores, demonstrated that the interventions had good acceptability by older adults with limited health literacy. However, we were not able to determine which intervention strategies had a significant positive effect on health outcomes in these patients. Further high-quality randomized clinical trials employing greater methodological rigor for assessing results are needed to elucidate the potential benefits of interventions in this population. (AU)

Uma revisão de escopo foi conduzida para identificar, resumir e avaliar a evidência existente sobre os objetivos e efeitos das intervenções utilizadas por profissionais de saúde em idosos com baixo letramento em saúde. Artigos relevantes foram selecionados de bases de dados entre abril de 2017 a abril de 2020. Os autores consultaram o manual de síntese de evidências do The Joanna Briggs Institute para a condução desta revisão de escopo. Ao final, foram selecionados 22 estudos. Os efeitos positivos observados para cada tipo de intervenção, produzindo resultados significativos para alguns desfechos e melhoria na pontuação intragrupos, demonstraram que as intervenções têm boa aceitação por parte dos idosos com baixo letramento digital. No entanto, não foi possível concluir quais estratégias tiveram efeitos positivos significativos para melhoria de desfechos em saúde nesses pacientes. Futuros ensaios clínicos randomizados de alta qualidade com rigor metodológico para avaliação dos resultados são necessários para elucidar os potenciais benefícios das intervenções para essa população. (AU)

Relationship between chronic pain, depressive symptoms, and functional disability in community-dwelling older adults: mediating role of frailty

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the direct and indirect effects of chronic pain, depressive symptoms, frailty components, and functional disability through a pathway analysis approach in a sample of community-dwelling older adults. Methods Data of 419 participants were cross-sectionally evaluated for the presence of depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale [15 items]), physical frailty components (phenotype criteria), chronic pain, and limitations in performing instrumental activities of daily living (functional disability scale by Lawton and Brody). Structural equation modeling via path analysis was used to explore the direct and indirect effects among these four variables. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results Of the total participants, 69.8% were women and 59.3% had low education (1-4 years); the mean age was 80.3±4.6 years. Chronic pain and depressive symptoms were directly related and were associated to frailty. The number of frailty components and depressive symptoms were directly associated with functional disability. Frailty had an indirect effect on the association between chronic pain, depressive symptoms, and functional disabilities. Conclusion The pathway from chronic pain and depressive symptoms to functional disability is potentially mediated by the number of frailty components.

Cognition, functionality, and life space in older adults: the mediating role of perceived control and autonomy / Cognição, funcionalidade e espaço de vida nas pessoas idosas: o papel mediador da percepção de controle e autonomia

OBJECTIVES: To examine a model of associations between cognition, functionality, and life-space mobility, and the mediating role of perceived control and autonomy. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study with a sample of older adults aged over 72 years, which used data from the FIBRA study. We used the structural equation modeling technique. Variables in this model were cognition, functionality, perceived control and autonomy, and life-space mobility, with sociodemographic and health covariables. Data imputation was done through the expected maximization method aiming at more effective data utilization. This study was funded by Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior. RESULTS: The mediation model reached good fit indices. Cognition, functionality, and perceived control and autonomy demonstrated a predictive capacity for life space. Functionality and perceived control and autonomy mediated the relationship between cognition and life space; therefore, cognition influences life space, given its associations with the mediating variables. There was a mediating effect of perceived control and autonomy on the relationship between functionality and life space. CONCLUSIONS: Perceived control and autonomy have an adaptive role when considering changes in personal competencies. This adaptation is reflected on life spaces, indicating an adjustment between competence and environment. Studies aimed at promoting a good relationship between an individual and his or her context maintaining life space should consider perceived control and autonomy as important mechanisms in this relationship

OBJETIVOS: Examinar um modelo de associações entre cognição, funcionalidade e mobilidade em espaço de vida, e o papel mediador da percepção de controle e autonomia. METODOLOGIA: Estudo transversal, com amostra composta por idosos acima de 72 anos, utilizando dados do estudo FIBRA. Utilizou-se a técnica de Modelagem por Equações Estruturais. As variáveis do modelo foram a cognição, a funcionalidade, a percepção de controle e autonomia e a mobilidade em espaço de vida, com covariáveis sociodemográficas e de saúde. Realizou-se imputação de dados através da técnica Expected Maximization, visando o melhor aproveitamento dos dados. Estudo financiado pela Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior. RESULTADOS: O modelo de mediação obteve bons índices de ajuste. A cognição, a funcionalidade e a percepção de controle e autonomia demonstraram capacidade preditiva do espaço de vida. A funcionalidade e a percepção de controle e autonomia mediaram a relação entre a cognição e o espaço de vida, portanto, a cognição influencia o espaço de vida, dada suas associações com as variáveis mediadoras. Houve efeito de mediação da percepção de controle e autonomia na relação entre a funcionalidade e o espaço de vida. CONCLUSÕES: A percepção de controle e autonomia exerce função adaptativa frente às alterações nas competências pessoais. Essa adaptação é refletida nos espaços de vida, indicando ajuste entre competência e meio. Estudos que visem promover uma boa relação entre o indivíduo e seu contexto, mantendo o espaço de vida, devem considerar a percepção de controle e autonomia como mecanismo importante nesta relação."

Are quality of life, functional capacity, and urinary incontinence associated with fecal incontinence? The Fibra-BR Study / Cuidados de saúde, capacidade funcional e incontinência urinária estão associados à incontinência fecal? Estudo Fibra-BR

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of fecal incontinence and its association with clinical, functional, and cognitive-behavioral variables, medication use, frailty, falls, and quality of life in community-dwelling older adults (aged 65 years or older). METHODS: Cross-sectional, multicenter study carried out across 16 Brazilian cities. The question "In the last 12 months, did you experience fecal incontinence or involuntary passage of stool?" was defined as the indicator variable for fecal incontinence. Bivariate analyses were carried out to assess the prevalence of fecal incontinence and sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, cognition, functional capacity, depression, frailty, quality of life, and falls. Logistic regression analysis was also performed, with fecal incontinence as the dependent variable. RESULTS: Overall, 6855 subjects were evaluated; 66.56% were female, 52.93% white, and the mean age was 73.51 years. The prevalence of fecal incontinence was 5.93%. It was associated with worse self-care (OR 1.78 [1.08­2.96]), dependence for basic activities of daily living (OR 1.29 [1.01­1.95]), and urinary incontinence (OR 4.22 [3.28­5.41]). Furthermore, the absence of polypharmacy was identified as a protective factor (OR 0.61 [0.44­0.85]). CONCLUSION: The overall prevalence of fecal incontinence was 5.93%. On logistic regression, one quality of life variable, dependence for basic activities of daily living, and polypharmacy were significantly associated with fecal incontinence

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência de incontinência fecal e sua associação com variáveis clínicas, funcionais, cognitivo-comportamentais, uso de fármacos, fragilidade, quedas e qualidade de vida em indivíduos com 65 anos ou mais que vivem na comunidade. METODOLOGIA: Estudo transversal e multicêntrico, realizado em 16 cidades brasileiras. A pergunta "Nos últimos 12 meses o(a) senhor(a) apresentou incontinência fecal ou perda de fezes de forma involuntária?'' foi a variável indicadora de incontinência fecal. Análises bivariadas avaliaram a prevalência de incontinência fecal e suas características sociodemográficas, comorbidades, cognição, funcionalidade, depressão, fragilidade, qualidade de vida e quedas. Também realizou-se análise de regressão logística tendo a incontinência fecal como variável dependente. RESULTADOS: No total, 6855 indivíduos foram avaliados; 66,56% eram do sexo feminino, 52,93% brancos e a média de idade de 73,51 anos. A prevalência de incontinência fecal foi de 5,93% e estava associada com pior cuidado com a própria saúde [OR 1,78 (1,08­2,96)], dependência para as atividades básicas de vida diária [OR 1,29 (1,01­1,95)] e incontinência urinária [OR 4,22 (3,28­5,41)]. Além disso, observou-se que a ausência de polifarmácia [OR 0,61 (0,44­0,85)] foi identificada como associação de proteção. CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência de incontinência fecal foi de 5,93%. Na regressão logística, uma variável de qualidade de vida, dependência para atividades básicas de vida diária e polifarmácia mostrou-se significativamente associada à incontinência fecal

Morbidities, Self-reported Health, Purpose, and Satisfaction with Life in Older Adults / Morbidades, Autoavaliação de Saúde, Propósito e Satisfação com a Vida em Idosos / Morbilidades, Autoevaluación de Salud, Propósito y Satisfacción con la Vida en Adultos Mayores

Abstract This study aims to estimate the prevalence of overall satisfaction with life regarding sense of purpose in life, morbidities, and self-reported health, and to identify their direct and indirect associations among the domains in community-dwelling older adults. The research has a cross-sectional design, and we evaluated 419 older adults. Morbidities were assessed using a dichotomous question; self-reported health and satisfaction with life were assessed using a 5-point Likert scale; and sense of purpose was assessed using the Ryff and Keyes 10-item scale. An analysis of structural equations was conducted using Path Analysis. The relationship between morbidities and overall satisfaction with life was mediated by self-reported health; purpose in life mediated the relationship between self-reported health and overall satisfaction with life. Beyond managing chronic illnesses, subjective assessments of health and well-being are key to successful aging.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo estimar a prevalência de satisfação global com a vida e referenciada a domínios, propósito de vida, morbidades e autoavaliação de saúde e identificar associações diretas e indiretas de morbidades, autoavaliação geral de saúde e propósito de vida com satisfação global com a vida em idosos comunitários. Trata-se de um delineamento transversal que avaliou 419 idosos. Morbidades foram avaliadas por questão dicotômica, autoavaliação de saúde e satisfação com a vida por escala tipo Likert de 5 pontos, e propósito pela escala de 10 itens de Ryff e Keyes. Utilizou-se análise de equações estruturais via análise de caminhos. A relação entre morbidades e satisfação global com a vida foi mediada pela autoavaliação de saúde; propósito de vida mediou a relação entre autoavaliação de saúde e satisfação global com a vida. Além do tratamento de doenças crônicas, avaliações subjetivas da saúde e bem-estar são essenciais para o envelhecimento bem-sucedido.

Resumen Este estudio tuvo como objetivo estimar la prevalencia de satisfacción global con la vida y referenciada a los dominios propósito de vida, morbilidades y salud autoevaluada, e identificar asociaciones directas e indirectas de morbilidades, autoevaluación general de salud y propósito con la satisfacción general con la vida en adultos mayores comunitarios. Es un diseño transversal que evaluó a 419 adultos mayores. Las morbilidades se evaluaron mediante una pregunta dicotómica, la autoevaluación de salud y la satisfacción con la vida por la escala Likert de 5 puntos, y el propósito mediante la escala de 10 ítems de Ryff y Keyes. Se utilizó análisis de ecuaciones estructurales vía análisis de trayectoria. La relación entre morbilidades y satisfacción general con la vida estuvo mediada por autoevaluación de la salud; el propósito de vida medió la relación entre autoevaluación de salud y satisfacción general con la vida. Más allá del manejo de enfermedades crónicas, las evaluaciones subjetivas de salud y bienestar son clave para un envejecimiento exitoso.

Solidão e sua associação com indicadores sociodemográficos e de saúde em adultos e idosos brasileiros: ELSI-Brasil / Loneliness and its association with sociodemographic and health indicators in Brazilian adults and older adults: ELSI-Brazil / La soledad y su asociación con indicadores sociodemográficos y de salud en adultos y ancianos brasileños: ELSI-Brasil

Resumo: O objetivo foi investigar a prevalência de solidão e suas associações com indicadores sociodemográficos e de saúde em amostra nacionalmente representativa de adultos e idosos brasileiros. Foram analisados dados da linha de base (2015-2016) do Estudo Longitudinal da Saúde dos Idosos Brasileiros (ELSI-Brasil) e incluídos os participantes com informações completas nas variáveis de interesse (n = 7.957). Solidão foi a variável de desfecho, cuja medida baseou-se na pergunta "Com que frequência o(a) senhor(a) se sentiu sozinho(a) ou solitário(a): sempre, algumas vezes ou nunca?". As variáveis independentes compreenderam indicadores sociodemográficos e comportamentos e condições de saúde. As análises incluíram o teste qui-quadrado de Pearson, para cálculo das frequências relativas, e a regressão de Poisson, para estimativa das razões de prevalência (RP) e respectivos intervalos de 95% de confiança (IC95%). A prevalência de sempre sentir solidão foi de 16,8%; de algumas vezes, 31,7%; e de nunca, 51,5%. Foram observadas associações significativas entre sempre sentir solidão e depressão (RP = 4,49; IC95%: 3,93-5,11), morar só (RP = 2,44; IC95%: 2,12-2,82), baixa escolaridade (RP = 1,93; IC95%: 1,61-2,32), sexo feminino (RP = 1,53; IC95%: 1,36-1,72), autoavaliação de saúde ruim/muito ruim (RP = 1,48; IC95%: 1,27-1,73) e qualidade do sono ruim/muito ruim (RP = 1,21; IC95%: 1,05-1,41). Dado seu potencial de prejuízo à qualidade de vida, é necessário conhecer longitudinalmente as trajetórias da solidão e as variáveis associadas e usar esse conhecimento para o delineamento de políticas públicas e intervenções em saúde que poderão beneficiar o bem-estar biopsicossocial de adultos e idosos brasileiros.

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of loneliness and its associations with sociodemographic and health indicators in a nationally representative sample of Brazilian adults and older adults. Data from the baseline (2015-2016) of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil) were analyzed, and participants with complete information on the variables of interest (n = 7,957) were included. Loneliness was the outcome variable, which was based on the question "How often do you feel alone or lonely: always, sometimes, or never?" Independent variables included sociodemographic indicators and health behaviors and conditions. The analyses included the Pearson's chi-square test for calculating relative frequencies, and Poisson regression for estimating prevalence ratios (PR) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The prevalence of always feeling lonely was 16.8%; sometimes, 31.7%; and never, 51.5%. Significant associations were observed between always feeling lonely and depression (PR = 4.49; 95%CI: 3.93-5.11), living alone (PR = 2.44; 95%CI: 2.12-2.82), low education level (PR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.61-2.32), being a woman (PR = 1.53; 95%CI: 1.36-1.72), self-rated poor/very poor health (PR = 1.48; 95%CI: 1.27-1.73), and poor/very poor sleep quality (PR = 1.21; 95%CI: 1.05-1.41). Given its potential to harm quality of life, it is necessary to longitudinally understand the trajectories of loneliness and associated variables, and to use this knowledge to design public policies and health interventions that could benefit the biopsychosocial well-being of Brazilian adults and older adults.

Resumen: El objetivo fue investigar la prevalencia de la soledad y sus asociaciones con indicadores sociodemográficos y de salud en una muestra nacionalmente representativa de adultos y ancianos brasileños. Se analizaron datos de la línea base (2015-2016) del Estudio Longitudinal de la Salud de los Ancianos Brasileños (ELSI-Brasil) y se incluyeron los participantes con información completa en las variables de interés (n = 7.957). La soledad fue la variable de desenlace, cuya medida se basó en la pregunta "¿Con qué frecuencia te sentiste solo(a) o solitario(a): siempre, a veces o nunca?". Las variables independientes incluyeron indicadores sociodemográficos y comportamientos y condiciones de salud. Los análisis incluyeron la prueba de chi-cuadrado de Pearson para calcular las frecuencias relativas, y la regresión de Poisson, para estimar las razones de prevalencia (RP) y los respectivos intervalos de 95% de confianza (IC95%). La prevalencia de sentirse siempre solo fue de 16,8%; a veces, 31,7%; y nunca, 51,5%. Se observaron asociaciones significativas entre sentir siempre soledad y depresión (RP = 4,49; IC95%: 3,93-5,11), vivir solo (RP = 2,44; IC95%: 2,12-2,82), baja escolaridad (RP = 1,93; IC95%: 1,61-2,32), sexo femenino (RP = 1,53; IC95%: 1,36-1,72), autoevaluación de salud mala/muy mala (RP = 1,48; IC95%: 1,27-1,73) y calidad del sueño mala/muy mala (RP = 1,21; IC95%: 1,05-1,41). Dado su potencial para perjudicar la calidad de vida, es necesario conocer longitudinalmente las trayectorias de la soledad y las variables asociadas, y usar ese conocimiento para diseñar políticas públicas e intervenciones en salud que puedan beneficiar el bienestar biopsicosocial de adultos y ancianos brasileños.

Self-assessed masticatory function and frailty in Brazilian older adults: the FIBRA Study.

OBJETIVE: To investigate the relationship between the masticatory function and the frailty of older people. METHODS: Exploratory cross-sectional study using secondary data from the FIBRA Project on the frailty conditions of older people living in urban areas of six Brazilian municipalities, from 2008 to 2009. The population consisted of older adults aged 65 and over with no cognitive impairment. A single session identification questionnaire and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) were applied, followed by collecting sociodemographic data and data on the participants' self-assessment of masticatory function, general health, and oral health. RESULTS: 2,341 older people (164 frail older adults), of whom 63.2% reported not having seen a dentist in the last year, and approximately 26% of them had three or more functional feeding problems. Older participants (OR = 2.88; 95%CI: 2.01-4.13), who are retired (OR = 2.31; 95%CI: 1.18-5.53), those who were depressed (OR = 2.31; 95%CI: 1.58-3.38), and those who self-assessed their general health as worse compared to others of the same age (OR = 3.91; 95%CI: 2.39-6.40) were at higher risk of frailty. Three or more problems related to the functional aspects of mastication were associated with a greater chance of frailty (OR = 2.06; 95%CI: 1.25-3.41). CONCLUSION: This study found an association between masticatory function and a greater chance of frailty among the studied population.

Functional dentition and associated factors: the evaluation of three indicators

Studying the different indicators of functional dentition classification can contribute to the understanding of the associated factors, and thus help in the definition of strategies associated with oral health care. This approach has been little explored in the literature, especially when considering the older age group. Aim:The aim of this study is to evaluate the factors associated with three distinct functional dentition classification. Methods: Cross-sectional exploratory study using secondary data from the Frailty in Older Brazilians (FIBRA) Project of 876 older adults living in Campinas, Brazil. The indicators of dental function assessed was number of natural teeth present, occluding pairs of teeth and the Eichner index, which were verified by trained dentists, following the World Health Organization criteria for epidemiological studies in oral health. The explanatory variable assessed was the self-perception of oral health-related quality of life measured by the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) and its dimensions. It was also collected sociodemographic information such as age, gender, race/ethnicity, schooling, family income, smoking behavior and frailty status. The association was verified through Poisson regressions for number of teeth and pairs of teeth in occlusion and multinomial regression for the Eichner index, adjusted by sociodemographic and health variables. Results: Lower prevalence of participants with less than 21 teeth who negatively perceived GOHAI ́s pain and discomfort dimension and higher prevalence of having less teeth among the ones that negatively perceived GOHAI ́s physical and functional dimensions. No association was found between the perception of quality of life and occlusion pairs of teeth and the Eichner Index. Conclusion: Two out of three indicators assessed were associated with quality of life. Therefore, it is important to select sensitive indicators to be able to identify and better comprehend this relationship

Depressive symptoms, symptoms of insomnia and stressful events in hypertensive older adults: Cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: the aim of this study was to determine whether symptoms of insomnia and intensity of stressful life events are independently associated with depressive symptoms in community-dwelling hypertensive older adults. METHODS: this was an observational cross-sectional study. Participants were 438 older adults with arterial hypertension who completed questionnaires about depressive symptoms, stressful events, self-reported symptoms of insomnia and socio-demographic characteristics. Cluster analysis was performed to obtain groups according to insomnia symptoms. The following groups were identified: Poor Sleep Quality, Early Waking and Good Sleep Quality. Associations were tested using linear regression analysis and multiple Poisson regression analysis. RESULTS: The factors that independently contributed to the increase of depressive symptoms were belonging to the Poor Sleep Quality group (p<.001) and Early Waking group (p=.005), reporting higher intensity of stressful life events (p<.001) and having less schooling (p=.003). CONCLUSION: older adults with hypertension need a comprehensive approach to their health care that considers depressive symptoms and their relationship with intensity of stressful events, insomnia symptoms and schooling.

Prevalence of chronic diseases in octogenarians: data from the National Health Survey 2019. / Prevalência de doenças crônicas em octogenários: dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde 2019.

This article aims to estimate the prevalence of chronic diseases/conditions in octogenarians according to sex, age groups and private health insurance, and its relationship with difficulty in performing usual activities. Cross-sectional population-based study with elderly data (n = 6,098) from the National Health Survey (PNS) 2019. Prevalences and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. The prevalences were: hypertension 61.7%, chronic back problem 30.0%, hypercholesterolemia 22.0%, diabetes 20.3%; arthritis/rheumatism 19.4%, heart disease 19.3%, depression 9.4%, cancer 8.9%, cerebrovascular accident (CA) 7.5%, asthma 4.9%, lung disease (LD) 4.2% and kidney failure (KF) 3.0%. Hypertension, chronic back problem, hypercholesterolemia, major arthritis/rheumatism and depression in women, and cancer in men. Major heart disease, hypercholesterolemia, arthritis/rheumatism, KF, cancer and depression in those with private health insurance. Restriction of usual activities 14.8%, more frequent in cardiac patients, with chronic back problem, arthritis/rheumatism, KF, depression, CA, cancer and LD. There were higher prevalences in women and in those who have health insurance. Difficulties in usual activities related to diseases demand the expansion of care for the older adults.

O objetivo deste artigo é estimar a prevalência de doenças/condições crônicas em octogenários segundo sexo, faixas etárias e plano de saúde, e sua relação com a dificuldade para realização de atividades habituais. Estudo transversal de base populacional com dados de idosos (n = 6.098) da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde 2019. Estimaram-se as prevalências e intervalos de confiança de 95%. As prevalências foram: hipertensão 61,7%, problema de coluna 30,0%, hipercolesterolemia 22,0%, diabetes 20,3%, artrite/reumatismo 19,4%, cardiopatias 19,3%, depressão 9,4%, câncer 8,9%, AVC 7,5%, asma 4,9%, doença pulmonar (DP) 4,2% e insuficiência renal (IR) 3,0%. Hipertensão, problema de coluna, hipercolesterolemia, artrite/reumatismo e depressão maiores nas mulheres, e câncer nos homens. Cardiopatias, hipercolesterolemia, artrite/reumatismo, IR, câncer e depressão maiores naqueles com plano de saúde. Restrição de atividades habituais, 14,8% mais frequente nos cardiopatas, com problema de coluna, artrite/reumatismo, IR, depressão, AVC, câncer e DP. Observaram-se maiores prevalências nas mulheres e nos que possuem plano de saúde. Dificuldades para atividades habituais relacionadas às doenças demandam a ampliação do cuidado aos mais idosos.

Relationships between self-reported dyspnea, health conditions and frailty among Brazilian community-dwelling older adults: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT CONTEXT: Dyspnea is a symptom present in several chronic diseases commonly seen among older adults. Since individuals with dyspnea tend to stay at rest, with consequently reduced levels of physical activity, they are likely to be at greater risk of developing frailty, especially at older ages. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study at community level, Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationships between self-reported dyspnea, health conditions and frailty status in a sample of community-dwelling older adults. METHOD: Secondary data from the follow-up of the Frailty in Brazilian Elderly (FIBRA) study, involving 415 community-dwelling older adults (mean age: 80.3 ± 4.68 years), were used. The variables analyzed were sociodemographic characteristics, reported dyspnea, clinical data and frailty phenotype. Associations between dyspnea and other variables (age, sex, education and body mass index) were verified through the crude (c) and adjusted (a) odds ratios. RESULTS: The prevalence of dyspnea in the entire sample was 21.0%. Dyspnea was more present in individuals with pulmonary diseases, heart disease, cancer and depression. Older adults with multimorbidities (adjusted odds ratio, ORa = 2.91; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.41-5.99) and polypharmacy (ORa = 2.02; 95% CI = 1.15-3.54) were more likely to have dyspnea. Those who reported dyspnea were 2.54 times more likely to be frail (ORa = 2.54; 95% CI = 1.08-5.97), and fatigue was their most prevalent phenotype component. CONCLUSION: Dyspnea was associated with different diseases, multimorbidities, polypharmacy and frailty. Recognizing the factors associated with dyspnea may contribute to its early identification and prevention of its negative outcomes among older adults.

Relationships between self-reported dyspnea, health conditions and frailty among Brazilian community-dwelling older adults: a cross-sectional study.

CONTEXT: Dyspnea is a symptom present in several chronic diseases commonly seen among older adults. Since individuals with dyspnea tend to stay at rest, with consequently reduced levels of physical activity, they are likely to be at greater risk of developing frailty, especially at older ages. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study at community level, Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationships between self-reported dyspnea, health conditions and frailty status in a sample of community-dwelling older adults. METHOD: Secondary data from the follow-up of the Frailty in Brazilian Elderly (FIBRA) study, involving 415 community-dwelling older adults (mean age: 80.3 ± 4.68 years), were used. The variables analyzed were sociodemographic characteristics, reported dyspnea, clinical data and frailty phenotype. Associations between dyspnea and other variables (age, sex, education and body mass index) were verified through the crude (c) and adjusted (a) odds ratios. RESULTS: The prevalence of dyspnea in the entire sample was 21.0%. Dyspnea was more present in individuals with pulmonary diseases, heart disease, cancer and depression. Older adults with multimorbidities (adjusted odds ratio, ORa = 2.91; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.41-5.99) and polypharmacy (ORa = 2.02; 95% CI = 1.15-3.54) were more likely to have dyspnea. Those who reported dyspnea were 2.54 times more likely to be frail (ORa = 2.54; 95% CI = 1.08-5.97), and fatigue was their most prevalent phenotype component. CONCLUSION: Dyspnea was associated with different diseases, multimorbidities, polypharmacy and frailty. Recognizing the factors associated with dyspnea may contribute to its early identification and prevention of its negative outcomes among older adults.