Search

Background: Cognitive frailty (CF) is an emerging concern among older persons, particularly within lower socioeconomic statuses (SES) populations. Currently, there is limited evidence on the potential reversibility of CF through multi-domain interventions within this demographic. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the WE-RISE™ multi-domain intervention in addressing the potential reversibility of CF among community-dwelling older persons of lower SES, the intervention effects on multiple health dimensions, and to determine if WE-RISE™ is of low cost. Methods: This 24-week randomised controlled trial included 55 community-dwelling older persons of lower SES with CF, who were randomised into either the WE-RISE™ intervention group (n = 27), or the control group receiving usual care (n = 28). The WE-RISE™ intervention comprised of 12 weeks of instructor led, community-based intervention, followed by 12 weeks of WE-RISE™@Home. CF status, cognitive and physical function, nutrition, disability, health-related quality of life, exercise self-efficacy and depression were assessed at baseline, 12th and 24th weeks. Changes in CF status was analysed descriptively, while intervention effects were analyzed with split plot ANOVA. The cost of the WE-RISE™ intervention was calculated using activity-based costing. Results: At baseline, all participants in both the intervention and control groups (100%) were classified as CF. Following 12 weeks of the WE-RISE™ intervention, 74.1% of participants in the experimental group no longer met the criteria for cognitive frailty, with 63% maintaining this improvement at 24 weeks. In contrast, the CF status of participants in the control group remained largely unchanged, with only 10.7% showing improvement at 12 weeks and falling to 3.6% at 24 weeks. Significant intervention effects were observed for cognition, physical function, body composition, disability, health-related quality of life and self-perceived exercise self-efficacy (p < 0.05) following participation in WE-RISE™. The cost per intervention session was RM4.06 (≈ RM3.88), and the cost per subject for 48 sessions was RM194.74 (≈ RM187.01). Conclusion: The WE-RISE™ multi-domain intervention has demonstrated potential in reversing CF among older persons of lower SES, leading to significant improvements across multiple health dimensions at a low cost. WE-RISE™ shows promise to enrich the well-being of ageing societies, contribute to societal health, and ensure equitable access to healthcare, supporting broader implementation by enhancing equitable access to health programs and addressing the needs of older persons, WE-RISE™. Trial registration: This trial was registered in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12619001055190) on the 29th of July 2019 – retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There is a limited availability of multidomain interventions that target cognitive frailty. Thus, the aim of the present study was to develop and evaluate the content validity and acceptance of the multidomain intervention module to reverse cognitive frailty among older adults (iAGELESS). Patients and Methods: This study was conducted in two phases: Phase I included the development of the multidomain intervention module iAGELESS and evaluation of content validity, while Phase II consisted of evaluating the acceptance of the module among 18 healthcare and social care providers, 13 older adults with cognitive frailty, and 13 caregivers. Content validity index (CVI) was used to quantify the content validity. Respondents completed a questionnaire which consisted of information on sociodemographic, followed by module acceptance evaluation with respect to content, terminologies, and graphics. The data was then analyzed descriptively. Results: A multidomain intervention module, iAGELESS was developed. The module was found to have appropriate content validity (overall CVI = 0.83). All the caregivers, 92% of older adults with cognitive frailty and 83% of healthcare and social care providers were satisfied with the overall content of the module. More than 50% of those who accepted the module had satisfactory consensus on the ease of the terminologies, length of sentences, pictures, information, color, and font size included in the module. Conclusion: The iAGELESS module demonstrated good content validity and was well accepted, thus warranting its utilization in future studies to determine its effectiveness in reversing cognitive frailty among older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of physical inactivity and identify the predictors for low physical activity among community-dwelling older persons living in Malaysia in 3 years follow-up. In this prospective study, physical activity levels were measured using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly. The arbitrary cutoff for Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly in this study was ≤70.9 for low and >141 for high physical activity levels. Out of the 955 physically active participants at baseline, 555 of them (mean [SD] age 68.82 [4.92] years) were successfully followed up to 3 years. Cumulative incidence of being physically inactive was 21% with rate of 7 per 100 person-years. It was found that being older (<.001), from Malay ethnic group (<.05), smokers (<.01), having lower gait speed (<.001), and lower cognitive status (<.05) were predictors for physical inactivity among Malaysian community-dwelling older persons in 3 years follow-up. These factors should be taken into consideration when planning for intervention and promotion strategies to increase physical activity levels among Malaysian older persons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conducted physically, supervised group-based falls prevention exercise programs have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the risk of falls among older adults. In this study, we aimed to assess the acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of a virtual supervised group-based falls prevention exercise program (WE-SURF™) for community-dwelling older adults at risk of falls. Method: A preliminary study utilizing virtual discussions was conducted to assess the acceptability of the program among six older adults. Effectiveness was evaluated in a randomized controlled feasibility study design, comprising 52 participants (mean age: 66.54; SD: 5.16), divided into experimental (n = 26) and control (n = 26) groups. The experimental group engaged in a 6-month WE-SURF™ program, while the control group received standard care along with a fall's prevention education session. Feasibility of the intervention was measured using attendance records, engagement rates from recorded videos, dropouts, attrition reasons, and adverse events. Results: Preliminary findings suggested that WE-SURF™ was acceptable, with further refinements. The study revealed significant intervention effects on timed up and go (TUG) (η2p:0.08; p < 0.05), single leg stance (SLS) (η2p:0.10; p < 0.05), and lower limb muscle strength (η2p:0.09; p < 0.05) tests. No adverse events occurred during the program sessions, and both attendance and engagement rates were high (> 80% and 8/10, respectively) with minimal dropouts (4%). The WE-SURF™ program demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the risk of falls while enhancing muscle strength and balance. Conclusion: In conclusion, WE-SURF™ was demonstrated to be an acceptable, feasible, and effective virtual supervised group-based exercise program for fall prevention in community-dwelling older adults at risk of falls. With positive outcomes and favourable participant engagement, WE-SURF™ holds the potential for wider implementation. Further research and scaling-up efforts are recommended to explore its broader applicability. (Registration number: ACTRN 12621001620819). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study, we aimed to assess the synergistic effects of cognitive frailty (CF) and comorbidity on disability among older adults. Methods: Out of the 1318 participants from the Malaysian Towards Useful Aging (TUA) study, only 400 were included in the five-year follow-up analysis. A comprehensive interview-based questionnaire covering socio-demographic information, health status, biochemical indices, cognitive and physical function, and psychosocial factors was administered. Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to estimate the independent and combined odd ratios (ORs). Measures such as the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), the attributable proportion of risk due to the interaction, and the synergy index were used to assess the interaction between CF and comorbidity. Results: Participants with CF (24.1%) were more likely to report disability compared to those without CF (10.3%). Synergistic effects impacting disability were observed between CF and osteoarthritis (OA) (OR: 6.675, 95% CI: 1.057–42.158; RERI: 1.501, 95% CI: 1.400–1.570), CF and heart diseases (HD) (OR: 3.480, 95% CI: 1.378–8.786; RERI: 0.875, 95% CI: 0.831–0.919), CF and depressive symptoms (OR: 3.443, 95% CI: 1.065–11.126; RERI: 0.806, 95% CI: 0.753–0.859), and between CF and diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR: 2.904, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.487–5.671; RERI: 0.607, 95% CI: 0.577–0.637). Conclusion: These findings highlight the synergism between the co-existence of CF and comorbidity, including OA, HD, DM, and depressive symptoms, on disability in older adults. Screening, assessing, and managing comorbidities, especially OA, HD, DM and depressive symptoms, when managing older adults with CF are crucial for reducing the risk of or preventing the development of disability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Joint pain has been recognized as one of the major causes of limitations in mobility, functional decline, and consequently declined quality of life in older adults. Hence, this study aimed to identify the predictors, protective factors, and adverse outcomes of joint pain in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: In this Long-term Research Grant Scheme—Towards Useful Ageing (LRGS-TUA) longitudinal study, a total of 1005 older participants aged 60 years and above who were successfully followed up after five years were included in the analysis. The participants self-reported their joint pain status at baseline and during the fifth year. Subsequently, the baseline characteristics were used to predict changes in joint pain status. Adverse outcomes related to joint pain were evaluated based on the participants' joint pain statuses. Results: Results showed that being female, having diabetes mellitus, and higher body mass index were associated with the incidence of joint pain. Meanwhile, increased intake of pantothenic acid and higher levels of blood albumin levels were associated with recovery from joint pain. Participants with persistent joint pain at baseline and follow-up showed higher levels of depression and disability compared to individuals who never experience any joint pain. However, participants who had recovered from joint pain did not differ significantly from those without joint pain at baseline and follow-up in these measures. Conclusions: By identifying the modifiable risk factors, factors associated with recovery, and adverse outcomes related to joint pain, this study adds to current evidence that may contribute to further management strategies for joint pain in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adoption of information and communication technology (ICT) by older adults with cognitive frailty and impairment is beneficial to support aging in place and promote healthy aging. However, data are scarce regarding the use of ICT by this demographic in comparison with other age groups. This bibliometric analysis was aimed at systematically mapping the literature on ICT‐related research on older adults with cognitive frailty and cognitive impairment to provide insights into research trends, patterns and knowledge gaps. Data were extracted from the Web of Science database, which identified 324 publications between 1980 and 2023. Performance analysis and science mapping were carried out using Microsoft® Excel, VOSViewer and Harzing's Publish or Perish. The analysis showed an upsurge in the research output trend over time. Notable journals, authors, citations, nations and research areas have been documented. Four key clusters were identified, including: (i) caregiver concern, support and involvement; (ii) technology as a tool for cognitive training and cognitive rehabilitation; (iii) cognitive improvement; and (iv) the use of technology for prevention and self‐management. The findings derived from this analysis provide an appropriate reference for future researchers to bridge the gap in ICT‐related studies among this population, and distinguish the relevant articles that are required for further investigation. These include the need for further long‐term research, the incorporation of ICT‐based approaches to counter cognitive frailty and the importance of multidomain telehealth interventions. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 251–262. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mosquito vector Aedes aegypti L., plays an important role in transmission of diseases including dengue, chikungunya and zika fever. In this study, citronella leaf oil extracted by hydro-distillation technique has been evaluated for its efficacy against this vector. Citronella leaf oil (100, 125, 150, 175 and 200 ppm) when tested, 150 ppm was found to be the effective larvicidal concentration against 4th instar larvae. LC50 and LC90 toxicity values were observed to be 107.10 and 141.59 ppm, respectively. GC-MS analysis indicated the presence of β-citronellal, geraniol, elemol and β-citronellol as the major components, which might be causing the larval mortality. Retention efficacy of the oil was found to be up to 84 hr in terms of larval killing and during this retention period, a significant delay in development (L4 to adult) was also observed. No effect of storage was observed on its larvicidal efficacy even after six months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The present study determines the prevalence of depression and the extent of clinical depression symptoms among community‐dwelling older adults with cognitive frailty and its associated factors. Methods: A total of 755 older adults aged ≥60 years were recruited. Their cognitive performance was determined using the Clinical Dementia Rating. Fried's criteria was applied to identify physical frailty, and the Beck Depression Inventory assessed their mental states. Results: A total of 39.2% (n = 304) of the participants were classified as cognitive frail. In this cognitive frail subpopulation, 8.6% (n = 26) had clinical depressive symptoms, which were mostly somatic such as disturbance in sleep pattern, work difficulty, fatigue, and lack of appetite. Older adults with cognitive frailty also showed significantly higher depression levels as compared with the noncognitive frail participants (t (622.06) = −3.38; P = 0.001). There are significant associations between depression among older adults with cognitive frailty and multimorbidity (P = 0.009), polypharmacy (P = 0.009), vision problems (P = 0.046), and hearing problems (P = 0.047). The likelihood of older adults with cognitive frailty who experience impairments to their vision and hearing, polypharmacy, and multimorbidity to be depressed also increased by 2, 3, 5, and 7‐fold. Conclusions: The majority of the Malaysian community‐dwelling older adults were in a good mental state. However, older adults with cognitive frailty are more susceptible to depression due to impairments to their hearing and vision, multimorbidity, and polypharmacy. As common clinical depressive symptoms among older adults with cognitive frailty are mostly somatic, it is crucial for health professionals to recognize these and not to disregard them as only physical illness. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 225–233. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-management education program (SMEP) is essential in the knee osteoarthritis (OA) management. While the benefits of tailored SMEP have been highlighted in the literature, evidence on the effects of tailored knee OA SMEP for multiethnic populations, such as in Malaysia, remains limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to conduct an intervention study on a tailored SMEP among Malaysian older adults who aged 60 years and above with knee OA. Participants aged 60 years and over with a diagnosis of knee OA were recruited. The intervention comprised four weekly structured group SMEP which was developed specifically for the multicultural population in Malaysia. Symptom's severity and functional performance were assessed at baseline and six-week follow-up using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score questionnaire (KOOS), 30 seconds sit to stand (30sST), time up and go (TUG), chair sit and reach (CSR), back stretch (BS), handgrip strength (HGS) and two-minute walk (2MW) tests. Of the 32 individuals recruited, 30 participants, mean age of 66.77 (±6.42) years, completed the post-intervention assessment. Improvements in mean KOOS domains scores were observed by between 1.3% - 8.6% from baseline to follow-up. Significant differences between baseline and followup scores were identified for 30sST (p < 0.05), TUG (p < 0.001) and 2MW (p < 0.001) tests. A 4-week tailored SMEP delivered face to face by a physiotherapist, improved lower limb muscle strength, mobility, balance and endurance. Larger randomized controlled trials regarding the long-term effects of SMEP for older adults with OA is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Southeast Asia (SEA) is a rapidly ageing and a diversely populated region that requires strategies to maintain its populations' physical activity and sense of well‐being. While the benefits of group exercise programs are known, the characteristics and types of exercises in terms of their effectiveness for physical function and fidelity of the programs have yet to be defined within this population. Methods: Ovid, MEDLINE, Scopus, PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database), EBSCOHOST, Cochrane library and Open Grey databases were searched to identify relevant studies. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro Scale and the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS). Meta‐analysis was undertaken when the same outcome measures were reported in a minimum of two studies with appropriate data. (PROSPERO: CRD42020177317). Results: Eleven studies with 900 participants were included, out of which 395 participants were allocated to group exercise programs and 383 completed the program. Culturally adapted Thai dance programs and multicomponent exercise programs were the most‐commonly reported group exercises. The Timed Up and Go test (TUG) and attendance rates were the most‐frequently reported outcomes. Meta‐analysis demonstrated significant improvement in physical function assessed using the Timed Up and Go test (Random effect model −1.27 s, 95% CI −1.65, −0.88, I2 = 74%). In two studies, adherence (81% and 94%) and dropout rates (4% and 19%) were reported. Conclusions: Group‐based exercise programs in Southeast Asia consisting mostly of culturally adapted Thai dance programs and multicomponent exercise programs appear to have positive effects on physical function. However, better descriptions of fidelity, including adherence, are required in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Educational videos and other multimedia materials are frequently employed to enhance clinical undergraduate learning. The acceptability and use of a fall prevention training videos by Malaysian clinical students are examined in this study. The use of multimedia in the classroom offers numerous advantages, but it is important to understand the needs, preferences, and feedback of the students regarding its usefulness and efficacy. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the acceptability and usability of the fall prevention instructional videos among clinical undergraduates in Malaysia through quantitative and qualitative study methods. This study looks at the acceptability and usage of fall prevention videos among clinical undergraduates in Malaysia. A quantitative and qualitative study of 53 clinical undergraduate students in Malaysia was conducted. The System Usability Scale (SUS) was adapted for our study to incorporate two open-ended questions regarding educational video continuity and practicality, feedback sections, and closed-ended questions addressing video flaws. The educational video on fall prevention has an excellent usability score of 73.26 ± 13.32. Most of the feedback suggested trimming the videos because 15 participants (28 %) felt it was too long. Many participants said that the educational videos were essential for practical sessions and future learning. The consensus was that educational videos should be kept up to date for future learning and usefulness, but more improvements are required to make the learning process better for the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Creating a competent healthcare workforce that can meet the demands of the 21st century's globalised healthcare system is a top priority. The purpose of this study was to understand how competency behaviours of final-year physical therapy students are promoted through an evidence-based Programmatic Clinical Portfolio (Pro-CP). If Pro-CP can develop competency behaviours, this study further explores the factors contributing to the development of competency behaviours. The Pro-CP instrument was developed based on contemporary principles of the programmatic assessment model, which provides a valid measure of workplace competence. A phenomenological study design was used to capture the experiences of final-year physical therapy graduates. The sample (n = 32) was drawn from both public and private settings during a four-week clinical internship. Data from the focus group discussions (FGDs) were coded deductively using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to assist in answering the research questions. Five themes emerged from the thematic analysis, namely, (a) Increased behaviours towards Pro-CP; (b) Decreasing subjective norms towards Pro-CP; (c) Increased self-efficacy towards Pro-CP; (d) Increased learning autonomy towards Pro-CP; (e) Need for institutional support. This qualitative study highlights the key elements of behavioural beliefs, normative beliefs, and perceived behavioural control concerning self-efficacy to understand the cultivation of competence behaviours. Consideration of programmatic assessment principles in the design of the competence assessment instrument holds promise for providing a valid value that genuinely defines the competency behaviours of physical therapy graduates. This study adds new thinking to competence assessment instrument in physical therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aedes aegypti is responsible for the spread of various public health diseases and mostly synthetic insecticides are being used for its control. However, regular and over use of these substances has lead to mosquito resistance and environment contamination. Plant based products are natural alternatives to replace the commercial synthetic insecticides. This study was conducted to assess the ovicidal, larvicidal and pupicidal potential of the extract prepared from dried neem seed kernels against Aedes aegypti. Larvicidal activity of neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) was tested using five different concentrations viz., 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm against all four instars of Ae. aegypti. Ovicidal and pupicidal activity was evaluated by exposing fresh viable eggs and pupae to three concentrations of NSKE, below its effective larvicidal concentration i.e. 200, 300 and 400 ppm. Calculated values for LC50 were recorded as 49.96, 66.39, 77.19 and 83.57 ppm and for LC90 values were 186.53, 228.86, 286.69 and 358.02 ppm, respectively for LI, LII, LIII and LIV instars of Ae. aegypti till 48 hours of exposure to NSKE. Treatment of NSKE with 300 and 400 ppm showed 100% ovicidal activity and significant mortality of both male and female pupae in comparison to control sets. These results indicate that NSKE could be used as larvicidal, ovicidal and pupicidal plant based agent for the efficient control of Ae. aegypti in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Home-based exercise (HBE) and patient education (EDU) have been reported as beneficial additions to usual knee osteoarthritis (KOA) rehabilitation. However, previous trials mostly examined the effects of HBE and EDU separately. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of a structured combined HBE and EDU program in addition to usual KOA rehabilitation on pain score, functional mobility, and disability level. Study Design: A parallel-group, single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Methods: Eighty adults with KOA were randomly allocated to experimental (n = 40) and control (n = 40) groups. All participants underwent their usual physiotherapy care weekly for eight weeks. The experimental group received a structured HBE + EDU program to their usual care, while the control group performed home stretching exercises to equate treatment time. The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) for the disability level, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and timed up-and-go test (TUG) for mobility were measured pre-post intervention. Results: After eight weeks, the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in the KOOS (all subscales), pain VAS, and TUG scores compared to baseline (P < 0.001); meanwhile, only KOOS (activities of daily living and sports subscales) was significant in the control group. Relative to the control, the experimental group presented higher improvements (P < 0.001) by 22.2%, 44.1%, and 15.7% for KOOS, pain VAS, and TUG, respectively. Conclusion: Integrating the HBE + EDU program into usual KOA rehabilitation could reduce pain and disability, while it improved functional mobility. The finding of this study suggests a combination of a structured HBE and EDU program to be considered as part of mainstream KOA management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The two‐minute step test (2MST) has been used to estimate cardiorespiratory fitness and optimum scores are needed for performing activities of daily living with ease among older persons. However, there is limited information on the mediating role of cognitive impairment on 2MST performance and the 2MST normative data. Hence, we aim to identify the mediating role of cognitive status on performance in the 2MST among community‐dwelling older adults and to establish the normative values of the 2MST. Methods: Participants aged 60 years and above were recruited through multistage random sampling from four states in Malaysia. The participants performed the 2MST using standard protocols. Mean comparison was done using an independent sample t‐test or one‐way analysis of variance. The 2MST normative values were then outlined descriptively. Results: Older age groups (60–69 years: 65.4 ± 21.9 times; 70–79 years: 61.7 ± 22.9 times; ≥80 years: 51.6 ± 24.5 times) had significantly lower levels of 2MST performance (p < 0.001). Women (56.6 ± 20.9 times) and participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (58.7 ± 21.7 times) also had significantly lower levels of 2MST performance (p < 0.001) compared with men (69.1 ± 20.7 times) and participants with normal cognition (63.7 ± 21.6 times). Cognitive status had a significant mediation effect for age and sex on 2MST performance (p < 0.001). Therefore, the 2MST normative values were stratified according to cognitive status, sex, and age groups. Conclusion: Validation of these findings in a larger number of older populations with MCI may provide directions for cardiorespiratory fitness training to be emphasised among older persons with MCI. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 950–955. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aim to assess general psychological health, associated factors, and the potential of coping strategies as a mediator for middle-aged and older Malaysian adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 535 individuals aged 52 years and above from the previous cohort and interventional studies in Peninsular Malaysia were contacted during the Movement Control Order (MCO) issued during the COVID-19 pandemic. Telephonic interviews were conducted to obtain participant information concerning socio-demography, physical activity, subjective well-being (SWB) as assessed using flourishing scale, coping strategies, and general psychological health (GHQ-12). Simple linear regression (SLR) and multiple linear regression (MLR) analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with GHQ-12. The associated factors were further analysed using mediation analysis to determine the potential of coping strategies as a mediator. It was observed that participants had a low mean GHQ-12 score (M = 0.80, SD = 2.19), indicating good psychological health. Living arrangement, physical activity, and flourishing scale were associated with psychological health (R2 = 0.412, p < 0.05) in MLR. Positive reinterpretation, emotional support, instrumental support, humour, denial, and self-blame appear to partially mediate the relationship between socio-demography, physical activity, flourishing scale and GHQ-12, with lower coefficient values. Middle-aged and older adults in Malaysia had good psychological health during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially when living with family, physically active, and having good subjective well-being. These findings provide the initial evidence to help promote the ageing population's general well-being and mental health and enable them to cope with change during the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rapid population aging occurring in developing nations necessitates innovation to ensure we continue to gain ground on aging research despite pandemic threats. While developed nations have resorted to virtual communications, this is challenging in developing nations due to poor internet connectivity and digital literacy. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of virtual data collection for a longitudinal study of aging assessing cognitive frailty in a middle-income Southeast Asian country. Methods: The Transforming Cognitive Frailty into Later-Life Self-Sufficiency (AGELESS) longitudinal study of aging involved community-dwelling participants aged 60 years and above. A semi-structured focus group discussion was conducted via videoconferencing with selected representatives from existing participants. The survey instrument was compiled during a hybrid meeting and refined using a virtual Delphi process involving 51 AGELESS investigators. The final draft survey and recruitment strategy were then piloted among selected participants. Results: Twelve individuals participated in the virtual focus group interview. Smartphone, tablet computer, laptops, and desktop personal computers were used for information gathering, communication, banking, shopping, leisure, religion, and education, within this group. The survey instrument was redacted from 362 items in 18 sections to 141 items in 12 sections through 3 virtual Delphi rounds facilitated by email, social media messaging, and videoconferencing which attracted 213 comments. Of 45 participants selected for the pilot survey, 30 were successfully contacted after one attempt and 18 completed the survey. Cognitive frailty was present in 13%, cognitive impairment in 20%, frailty in 20%, and 47% were robust. Conclusion: A virtual survey instrument was developed for the AGELESS longitudinal survey of aging which was vital for determining the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our older population as well as sustaining research into aging despite barriers posed by the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Falls is a common and debilitating condition among the older population, intensifying the need to educate older persons about falls. Technology advancement enables effective and efficient delivery of falls education to the older population. However, there is paucity of information on the perception of Malaysian older population on falls and their preferred website characteristics such as font size, design, layout, colour, navigation, and use of graphics or videos. Physiological changes in vision, cognition and psychomotor skills can affect how the older persons use the website. As Malaysia is a multicultural country, the needs of the website characteristics and falls perception of older persons may differ greatly. The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of the older persons about falls and their desired website characteristics. Twenty-five community-living older persons (n = 25) of age 60 years and above were involved in the focus group discussions. NvivoTM software was used for data management and thematic analysis was undertaken. Emerging themes included 'Perceptions of falls in older persons', 'Actions taken when falls occurred', 'Perceived prevention strategies for falls' and 'End user requirements for falls educational website'. Falls were perceived as both an avoidable and a non-avoidable incident. Although the participants mentioned physical activity and home hazard modifications as strategies to prevent falls, they mainly discussed self-initiated precautionary approaches in falls prevention. Regarding desired website characteristics, the participants emphasized on easily readable text, appealing design, clear information, use of images/videos, and simple website navigation. Special requirements for colour selection and multi-language options were also raised. The delivery of falls education through website can be made possible by understanding the perception of older persons about falls and their requirements for the website. This is especially important as ethnic and cultural influences may play a role on their perceptions about falls and desired website characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aimed to determine gender specific age-related decline in anthropometry status, physical performance (PP) and physical activity (PA) in older persons with and without mild cognitive impairment (MCI) prospectively over 3 years. Within-group changes across three time points (baseline-Wave 1, 18 months-Wave 2, 36 months-Wave 3) based on gender and cognitive status were determined. Data was collected at Wave 3 of a longitudinal study: "Neuroprotective Model for Health Longevity among Elderly". Secondary data from Wave 1 and 2 was obtained for analysis. Older persons with MCI were categorised to have subjective memory problems (answered 'yes' on item 10 of Geriatric Depression Scale), scored at least 1.5 SD below mean average on Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test and Digit Span, no dementia, no problems with activities in daily living, intact global cognition (>19/30: Mini Mental State Examination) and without depression (Geriatric Depression Scale 15-items,=4). Anthropometry measurements and a battery of PP tests were performed. PA was measured using Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly questionnaire. Data from 779 older persons (67.7 ± 5.3 years) consisting of 372 men (68.0 ± 5.2 years) and 407 women (67.4 ± 5.4) who completed all tests from Wave 1 to Wave 3 were analysed. There was a decline in PP (-0.7% to -14.1% per year), PA levels (-0.7% to -14.1% per year) and anthropometry status (-0.1% to -6.3% per year), except for percentage body fat (+9.9% per year) with advancing age. Within-group changes over the three years showed significant differences (p<0.05) in height and PA in non-MCI and MCI men and lower body flexibility in non-MCI and MCI women. Specifically, tailored physical and nutritional health prevention and promotion strategies for older persons based on gender and cognitive status may be beneficial to support person-centered care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to detemine the effectiveness of Customized vestibular rehabilitation (CVR) in addition to the standard Canalith repositioning maneuver (CRM) on static balance among adults with posterior canal Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). In this randomised controlled trial, 28 adults with idiopathic unilateral posterior canal BPPV were randomized to either the control or experimental group. The experimental group (n=14, mean age: 50.71±9.88 years) received CVR in addition to CRM, and the control group (n=14, mean age: 54.36±8.55 years) received only CRM for 6 weeks. Measurements of static balance (postural sway) using a portable kinematic sensor were performed at baseline, four and six weeks after treatment for both groups while standing on firm and foam surface with eyes open (EO) and closed (EC). Only standing on foam surface with EC was observed to have a significant interaction effect, F (2, 52) =5.28, p<0.05. This suggest that the groups were affected differently by the intervention and greater improvement was demonstrated in the experimental group. Post hoc test showed that a significant difference (p<0.05) in static balance was shown between baseline and 6th week after intervention. The results of our study indicate that CVR in addition to CRM improved static balance in adults with UPC BPPV at 6th week after intervention for persons with BPPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to examine the bidirectional associations between specific executive function (EF) and physical function (PF) subdomains among older adults. Methods: A systematic literature search (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, EBSCOHOST, Scopus and EmCare) was undertaken from February 2018 to May 2020. Observational studies measuring associations between EF and PF subdomains among older adults were included. Results: Twenty‐nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Twenty‐seven studies reported associations between EF and PF. There were bidirectional associations between slower processing speed and slower gait speed; slower processing speed and lower muscle strength; and lower verbal fluency and slower gait speed. Lower muscle strength was unilaterally associated with lower working memory. Conclusions: We found consistent bidirectional associations between processing speed with gait speed and muscle strength, and verbal fluency and gait speed. There was a unidirectional association between muscle strength and working memory. Common causal mechanisms for EF and PF require further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generally, university academics' knowledge sharing behavior and social intelligence are said to be significant in improving their performance through their grasp of competencies Nevertheless, the association has yet to be thoroughly researched. Thus, this study applied the proposed mediation model among university academics in the Business School of seven Malaysian private universities. The salient findings of this research are that the competencies mediate the association among (1) knowledge sharing behavior and innovative teaching and (2) social intelligence and innovative teaching. Apart from that, it was observed that knowledge sharing behavior impacted innovative teaching and supervision, while social intelligence impacted innovative teaching, research and publication and supervision. Implications were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Adults with unilateral posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) may continue to present with residual dizziness and balance impairments after the canalith repositioning maneuver (CRM). Customized Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) in addition to the standard CRM may improve postural control in adults with BPPV. However, the effectiveness of this intervention for improving dyanmic gait measures in adults with BPPV is unknown. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine the effectiveness of customized VR in addition to the standard CRM on dynamic gait measures among adults with unilateral posterior canal BPPV. METHODS: In this double blind, randomized controlled trial, 28 adults with BPPV were randomized to either control (n = 14, age: 54.36±8.55) or experimental (n = 14, age: 50.71±9.88) groups. The experimental and control groups received customized VR plus standard CRM for six weeks and standard CRM for two weeks respectively. Dynamic gait measures (duration of a complete gait cycle, stride velocity, turning duration and number of steps while turning) were recorded using a portable mobility sensor (iTUG) at baseline, week 4 and 6. A mixed model ANOVA was used to estimate the main effects of the interventions. RESULTS: During walking, a group effect was demonstrated on gait duration, stride velocity, turning duration and number of steps while turning (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Six weeks of customized VR performed in addition to the standard CRM was more effective than the standard CRM alone in improving balance and gait in adults with posterior canal BPPV. (252 words) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study evaluates the prevalence of and the multidimensional risk factors associated with age-related hearing loss (ARHL) among community-dwelling older adults in Malaysia. Patients and Methods: A total of 253 participants aged 60 years and above participated in this cross-sectional study. The participants were subjected to pure tone audiometric assessment. The hearing threshold was calculated for the better ear and classified into pure-tone average (PTA) for the octave frequencies from 0.5 to 4 kHz and high-frequency pure-tone average (HFA) for the octave from 2 to 8kHz. Then, the risk factors associated with PTA hearing loss (HL) and HFAHL were identified by using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: The prevalence of ARHL based on PTA and HFA among the community-dwelling older adults was 75.5% and 83.0%, respectively. Following multifactorial adjustments, being older (OR: 1.239; 95% CI: 1.062– 1.445), having higher waist circumference (OR: 1.158; 95% CI: 1.015– 1.322), lower intake of niacin (OR: 0.909; 95% CI: 0.831– 0.988) and potassium (OR: 0.998; 95% CI: 0.996– 1.000), and scoring lower in RAVLT T5 (OR: 0.905; 95% CI: 0.838– 0.978) were identified as the risk factors of PTAHL. Meanwhile, being older (OR: 1.117; 95% CI: 1.003– 1.244), higher intake of carbohydrate (OR: 1.018; 95% CI: 1.006– 1.030), lower intake of potassium (OR: 0.998; 95% CI: 0.997– 0.999), and lower scores on the RAVLT T5 (OR: 0.922; 95% CI: 0.874– 0.973) were associated with increased risk of having HFAHL. Conclusion: Increasing age, having higher waist circumference, lower intake of niacin and potassium, higher intake of carbohydrates and having lower RAVLT T5 score were associated with increased risk of ARHL. Modifying these risk factors may be beneficial in preventive and management strategies of ARHL among older persons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While there is abundance of studies regarding online distance learning (ODL) among university students, information regarding ODL among undergraduates in Malaysia is limited, more so during the Covid-19 pandemic. This was a cross-sectional online survey involving a total of 308 undergraduates from various universities in Malaysia aimed to evaluate undergraduates' perception of readiness and satisfaction towards online distance learning, platform preferences, attitudes and motivations, barriers towards ODL and also factors contributing to these variables. Questionnaires that include Online Learning Readiness Scale (OLRS) and additional information regarding challenges faced by undergraduates and their satisfaction levels towards ODL were used in this survey. The results showed that the undergraduates preferred a combination of face-to-face and online learning (68.8%) rather than online learning alone (5.5%). Majority of the respondents preferred having synchronous classes as compared to asynchronous classes (37.7%) and they rated Google Meet as their most preferred platform for their classes. In addition, the undergraduates shown fairly good perception and neutral satisfaction towards ODL. Factors such as ethnicity and the state where the undergraduates lived were found to more likely cause them to have poor satisfaction towards ODL. While, undergraduates who have handphones have a higher satisfaction level towards ODL. Several challenges were encountered throughout ODL with the most challenging was the unsupportive environment, which in turn causing the undergraduates to be distracted and losing focus during ODL. Our findings highlighted that majority undergraduates preferred a combination of face-to-face and online learning rather than online learning alone. These findings will be beneficial for educators in the planning for future teaching and learning methods. Future studies with a larger sample size are needed to evaluate the independent risk factors related to low motivations, perceptions and satisfaction among undergraduates using ODL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While there has been widespread reporting of a negative impact on students' mental health and academic performance because of ineffective online learning systems during COVID, Malaysian data remained scarce. In this online survey, the correlation between online distance learning (ODL), mental health status and academic performance of Malaysian undergraduates during COVID-19 pandemic were examined. Academic performance was measured using self-reported questionnaires in which respondents were also asked to state their cumulative grade points average (CGPA). Reduction in CGPA was considered as a decline in academic performance. Data on ODL readiness and satisfaction as well as mental health status were obtained. Among 256 respondents of this study with mean age (SD) 22.10 (1.05), a total of 27.3% reported to have decline in CGPA during Covid-19 pandemic. Female undergraduates were more likely to perform better as more had maintained or improved their academic performance. Self-directed learning, learning control, learning motivation, and satisfaction were significantly associated with academic performance (p<0.05) but not computer-internet self-efficacy and online communication self-efficacy. There were also significant negative correlations between ODL and Mental Health Status. However, mental health status does not appear to be significantly associated with decline in academic performance. Our study findings suggest that ODL preference and satisfaction have an impact on the academic performance. While, mental health status related to ODL was not associated with academic performance. Students getting used to the shift into remote learning over time may explain why mental health status had no effect on their academic performance. Future studies should focus on the know how to deliver effective ODL techniques to improve undergraduates' satisfaction with the hope to further improve their academic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The present study aims to determine the association of trace elements and oxidative and DNA damage biomarkers with fall incidence among community‐dwelling older adults. Methods: This study is part of the Long‐term Research Grant Scheme – Towards Useful Ageing cohort study in Malaysia. Of a total of 174 participants with complete trace elements and oxidative and DNA damage data during baseline, only 147 (84.5%) were successfully followed up after 18 months. Participants who experienced any fall events in the previous 18 months during the follow‐up were categorized as fallers. Results: Thirty participants (20.4%) reported at least one fall in the previous 18 months. The mean concentrations of aluminium, lead and zinc were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in fallers than non‐fallers. However, in comparison with the non‐faller group, the percentage of DNA in tail (11.43 ± 4.10% vs. 13.22 ± 5.24%) and tail moment (1.19 ± 0.54 AU vs. 1.59 ± 0.78 AU) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the faller group. No significant difference in serum superoxide dismutase activities and malondialdehyde level was observed between non‐fallers and fallers. Following multifactorial adjustments, higher aluminium (odds ratio [OR]: 1.007; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.002–1.011) and lead (OR: 1.162; 95% CI: 1.010–1.336) levels and lower tail moment scores (OR: 0.313; 95% CI: 0.138–0.709) appeared significant in the final hierarchical binary logistic regression model. Conclusions: Higher levels of lead and aluminium were associated with increased risk of falls among community‐dwelling older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 1026–1032. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cognitive frailty, a combination of physical frailty and cognitive impairment, is associated with functional decline in older adults. However, there is limited information if cognitive frailty predicts the incidence of falls, injuries, and disability. In this study, we aimed to determine the ability of cognitive frailty in predicting the incidence of falls, injuries and disability among multi-ethnic older adults in Malaysia at 5 years follow-up.Methods: In this prospective cohort study, a total of 400 participants aged 60 years and above were successfully followed up at 5 years. Participants' socio-demographic, medical history, psycho-social, physical, cognitive and dietary intake information was obtained. Cognitive frailty was defined as comorbid physical frailty (> 1 Fried criteria) and mild cognitive impairment (Petersen criteria). Univariate analysis was performed for all variables, followed by hierarchical binary logistic regression (BLR) analysis to identify the ability of CF in predicting the incidence of falls, injuries, and disability. The significant value was set at p < 0.05.Results: Cognitive frailty was found to be associated with greater risk of adverse consequences after adjusting for covariates. Both cognitive frailty (Adjusted Odd ratio (Adj OR) = 2.98, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.78-4.99, p < 0.05) and physical frailty (Adj OR = 2.88, 95% CI: 1.19-6.99, p < 0.05) were significant predictors of incidence of falls. Risk of injuries was also significantly increased with the presence of cognitive frailty (Adj OR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.23-7.60, p < 0.05) and physical frailty (Adj OR = 3.04, 95% CI: 1.75-5.28, p < 0.05). In addition, cognitive frailty (Adj OR = 5.17, 95% CI: 1.11-24.21, p < 0.05) and physical frailty (Adj OR = 4.99, 95% CI: 1.11-22.57, p < 0.05) were shown to significantly predict the incidence of disability among older adults.Conclusion: Cognitive frailty is a robust predictor of falls, injuries, and disability in older adults. Possible early multi-domain preventive and management strategies of cognitive frailty that contribute to adverse consequences are required to decrease further functional decline and promote independence in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim : The goal is to explore available evidence and provide greater clarity to what is described as psychosocial intervention to improve cognitive function among older population with MCI as well as identifying areas for future research. Methods : An electronic literature search of PubMed, Cochrane, Ebscohost, Medline, Scopus, and gray resource was conducted to find articles published in English language between 2010 and September 2020. This review focused on research undertaken using randomized clinical trials study design. We extracted information regarding the publication date, geographical location, study setting, intervention mechanism, type of cognitive measurement used, and outcome of the studies. References of this literature were also reviewed to ensure comprehensive search. Result : Out of 240 potential records found, a total of 27 articles were identified following the first round of screening and deletion of duplicates. Full-text article reviews and analysis in the second round of screening narrowed the selection down to four articles. Another three relevant articles obtained from references were also included making a total of seven articles in the final analysis. Findings : Psychosocial intervention strategies for improvement of cognitive function, done in various setting all over the globe, covered a range of approaches including art therapy, visual art therapy, therapeutic writing therapy, reminiscence activity, and cognitive behavioral approach. Most were conducted in weekly basis within 1-to-2-hour duration of session. Cognitive function of older adult in psychosocial intervention group was significantly improved in two studies. Three studies showed no significant improvement at all in the cognitive function, and another one reported success in improving cognitive function over time in the intervention group than in control group. One study did not describe the interaction effect. Different types of cognitive measurement also were used to quantify different domains of cognitive function in the reviewed studies. Conclusion : The idea of using psychosocial intervention for improving cognitive function has begun to increasingly accepted recently. Findings from the limited studies are encouraging, although the outcome of the cognitive function was mixed. Large-scale and longer duration of psychosocial intervention with bigger sample size is warranted for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cognitive frailty (CF) is identified as one of the main precursors of dementia. Multidomain intervention has been found to delay or prevent the onset of CF.Objective: The aim of our present study is to determine the effectiveness of a comprehensive, multidomain intervention on CF; to evaluate its cost effectiveness and the factors influencing adherence toward this intensive intervention.Methods: A total of 1,000 community dwelling older adults, aged 60 years and above will be screened for CF. This randomized controlled trial involves recruitment of 330 older adults with CF from urban, semi-urban, and rural areas in Malaysia. Multidomain intervention comprised of physical, nutritional, cognitive, and psychosocial aspects will be provided to participants in the experimental group (n = 165). The control group (n = 165) will continue their usual care with their physician. Primary outcomes include CF status, physical function, psychosocial and nutritional status as well as cognitive performance. Vascular health and gut microbiome will be assessed using blood and stool samples. A 24-month intensive intervention will be prescribed to the participants and its sustainability will be assessed for the following 12 months. The effective intervention strategies will be integrated as a personalized telerehabilitation package for the reversal of CF for future use.Results: The multidomain intervention developed from this trial is expected to be cost effective compared to usual care as well as able is to reverse CF.Conclusion: This project will be part of the World-Wide FINGERS (Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability) Network, of which common identifiable data will be shared and harmonized among the consortia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Online learning is an attractive option for educators, especially as means of overcoming the challenges posed by the global pandemic. Although it is best to evaluate student readiness prior to commencement of an online course, to ensure successful development and delivery of student-centric teaching and learning strategies, readiness towards online learning among physiotherapy undergraduates is unknown. The main aim of this study was to examine physiotherapy undergraduates' readiness towards online learning. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, participants were selected through a combination of total population and convenience sampling. The Student Online Learning Readiness questionnaire was distributed among physiotherapy undergraduates from two public and two private universities in Malaysia to investigate their technical, social and communication competencies. Information about device characteristics were obtained to evaluate their equipment readiness. Descriptive and group comparisons were conducted using independent t-test, and analysis of variance with p < 0.05 as level of significance. Results: A total of 352 physiotherapy undergraduates participated. The response rate was 81.6%. The results showed that physiotherapy undergraduates in these four institutions had moderate levels of readiness towards technical competencies (M = 3.7 ± 0.5), social competencies with instructor (M = 3.7 ± 0.6), social competencies with classmates (M = 3.8 ± 0.6) and communication competencies (M = 3.6 ± 0.5) related to online learning. The overall readiness for these four competencies was moderate (M = 3.7 ± 0.4), however the physiotherapy undergraduates had high (> 80% possessed smartphones and laptop) level of equipment readiness. Institution and gender had no significant effect on the level of readiness (p > 0.05). Year 1 and 2 had significantly higher levels of social competencies with instructor compared to final year physiotherapy undergraduates (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Physiotherapy undergraduates in these four institutions had moderate to high levels of readiness towards online learning. Technical, social and communication competencies could be further enhanced with appropriate strategies. Significance: This study provides an insight into the level of readiness towards online learning among physiotherapy undergraduates. The findings of our study shed light on issues to consider when designing online courses. A pre-course training for undergraduates prior to the commencement of online courses may be useful. Trial registration: Not Applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online health information have a role in enhancing health in older adults. However, age-related physiological changes and non-senior friendly websites proved to be a challenge for older adults. Research investigating older adults' preferences of features in health information websites is limited. Thus, in this review, we aim to summarize older adults' preferences regarding the design and content of health websites. Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR) and Google Scholar were searched for relevant articles in February 2018, using key words 'older adults', 'Internet', 'health information' and 'usability'. The methodological quality of included studies was evaluated using the McMaster critical appraisal tools by two independent reviewers. Individual study design, participants' characteristics, and identified preferences for health website features were extracted and summarized narratively. (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018096281). Five studies (3 qualitative, 2 quantitative) were included in this review. The quality appraisal score ranged from 32% to 83%. The web feature preferences of older adults were grouped into three domains: web presentation factors, web navigation factors and health information preferences. The results highlight older adults have specific preferences when engaging with online content. This review suggests that readable text, simple design, consistent layout and straightforward web navigation are the preferred priorities for a health information website for older adults. Findings from this review may be useful to healthcare professionals and developers to understand older adults' preferences pertaining to web design and contents in health websites specifically designed for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintenance of physical and psychological health is crucial to prevent general health problems in older persons. There is inadequate information on gender based physical and psychological health status in older adults attending primary care clinics in Malaysia. Study Design: Cross-sectional study Methods: 106 participants were required to perform physical performance tests consisting of 30secs chair stand (30sCS), chair sit and reach (CSR), back scratch (BS), timed up and go (TUG), single leg stance (SLS) and 2minutes walk (2MWT) tests. Psychological health measures consisted of Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) and General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). Results: Only CSR was found to be significantly higher in men (M= 1.27, SD= 3.1) compared to women (M= -0.88, SD= 3.67). A significant correlation (p<0.05) was found only in men between GHQ-28 and 30 seconds sit to stand test (r= -0.424), TUG (r= 0.361) and 2 Minute walk test (r= -0.436). Conclusion: Older males and females had similar physical and psychological measures except for lower limb flexibility which was greater in females. Lower physical performance (lower body strength, mobility and endurance) correlated with higher psychological issues in older males. There may be a need to consider distinct physical and psychological needs between genders in order to provide optimum health prevention and management stategies among older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maintenance of physical and psychological health is crucial to prevent general health problems in older persons. There is inadequate information on gender based physical and psychological health status in older adults attending primary care clinics in Malaysia. Study Design: Cross-sectional study Methods: 106 participants were required to perform physical performance tests consisting of 30secs chair stand (30sCS), chair sit and reach (CSR), back scratch (BS), timed up and go (TUG), single leg stance (SLS) and 2minutes walk (2MWT) tests. Psychological health measures consisted of Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) and General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). Results: Only CSR was found to be significantly higher in men (M= 1.27, SD= 3.1) compared to women (M= -0.88, SD= 3.67). A significant correlation (p<0.05) was found only in men between GHQ-28 and 30 seconds sit to stand test (r= -0.424), TUG (r= 0.361) and 2 Minute walk test (r= -0.436). Conclusion: Older males and females had similar physical and psychological measures except for lower limb flexibility which was greater in females. Lower physical performance (lower body strength, mobility and endurance) correlated with higher psychological issues in older males. There may be a need to consider distinct physical and psychological needs between genders in order to provide optimum health prevention and management stategies among older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]