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Atividades físicas têm importante efeito profilático contra doenças cardiovasculares, pois promovem redução do peso corporal e níveis pressóricos, por exemplo. Indivíduos que desenvolvem trabalhos administrativos têm tendência ao sedentarismo, com consequente risco de obesidade. No entanto, a relação entre medidas antropométricas e hemodinâmicas ainda é inconsistente. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a correlação entre parâmetros antropométricos e hemodinâmicos de servidores públicos. É um estudo observacional e transversal com uma amostra de 147 indivíduos. Verificou-se que homens normotensos apresentaram maiores médias de índice de massa corporal em relação aos hipertensos. Em contrapartida, esses indivíduos demonstraram maiores valores de frequência cardíaca em repouso. Notou-se que nenhuma das variáveis antropométricas foi associada à pressão arterial sistólica e diastólica, observando-se apenas associações das variáveis antropométricas entre si (r = 0,738 - peso corporal e quadril; e r = 0,936 - abdômen e circunferência de cintura). Portanto, não se observou associações entre variáveis antropométricas, índices pressóricos e frequência cardíaca de repouso. Conclui-se que, apesar das variáveis antropométricas serem boas preditoras de adiposidade corporal, não necessariamente são relacionadas com variáveis hemodinâmicas. A prática de atividade física deve ser estimulada dentro das rotinas laborais, em momentos oportunos, buscando incentivo a hábitos saudáveis e melhoria dos indicadores antropométricos.

This study aimed to analyze the impact of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) on life expectancy (LE) in the Brazilian population; and to identify how the hypothetical reduction in mortality from 5 to 30%, as well as the hypothetical scenario with no deaths (i.e., elimination) of these diseases would affect LE. This is a simulation study using national cross-sectional data. To identify the impact of CVDs on LE, we used multiple decrement life table models, considering hypothetical CVDs reductions in mortality from 5 to 30% and their elimination. The estimated overall potential gains in LE [years (%)] from the elimination of ischemic disease, hypertensive disease, and cerebrovascular disease were 1.44y (2%) and 1.31y (1.7%), 0.51y (0.7%) and 0.75y (1%), and 1.28y (1.8%) and 1.62y (2.1%), for males and females, respectively. The largest gains in LE were observed among those who live in Brazil's Northeast region. For the overall population, the estimated gains in LE linked to a 5% reduction in CVD mortality for males and females were 0.07y (0.1%) and 0.06y (0.08%) for ischemic disease, 0.02y (0.03%) and 0.04y (0.05%) for hypertensive disease, and 0.06y (0.08%) and 0.07y (0.09%) for cerebrovascular disease. A hypothetical decrease of 30% in mortality by CVDs would lead to gains in LE, for males and females, of 0.41y (0.6%) and 0.37y (0.5%) for ischemic disease, 0.15y (0.2%) and 0.22y (0.3%) for hypertensive disease, and 0.36y (0.5%) and 0.45y (0.6%) for cerebrovascular disease. Thus, investment towards improving CVDs, including CVD prevention efforts, would increase LE in Brazil, especially in less developed regions.

Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative disease which can result in chronic pain, loss of joint function and consequently decline in quality of life. Research question A variety of instruments that measure the different dimensions of health status in patients with OA are available. However, despite the fact that WOMAC and other questionnaires and scales may provide additional understanding regarding the patient’s condition, some studies have reported discrepancies between patients’ perceptions and their actual ability to perform the task. The aim of the present study was investigate the physical capabilities with the function domain of WOMAC. Methods This study has a cross-sectional design including patients diagnosed with moderate to severe knee OA (i.e., grades II, III and IV) according to the Kellgren-Lawrence. These patients were submitted to the battery of functional tests recommended by the OARSI group (30-second chair stand test, 40 meters fast paced walking test, Stair climb test, timed “Up and Go”, and Six-minute walking test) and filled the WOMAC. Pearson’s correlation and multiple linear regression was applied. Results A total of 153 patients were included. A significant and weak correlation was observed between WOMAC and the 40-meter walking test, TUG, stair-climbing test, and the 6MWT. In addition, 30-second chair stand test demonstrated a significant and moderate correlation (r=-0.503). The multiple regression analysis results indicated that only 30-second chair stand test was a significant (p = 0.001) predictor of WOMAC. This result remains significant even after adjusting for age, BMI, total muscle mass, and number of knees affected Significance The 30-second chair stand test is associated with the WOMAC function domain. There is no correlation of this domain with any other functional tests, emphasizing the importance of including other tests for a global evaluation.

Introduction: Evidence suggests that populations of developing countries present high levels of sedentarism. In contrast, it is also shown that educational level and access to information regarding the health benefits of exercise can raise a population’s level of physical activity (LPA). Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the morphological profile (MP), level of physical activity (LPA) and cardiovascular risk among Brazilian (BPES) and Colombian physical education students (CPES) in an effort to determine if these specific subjects presented different results among themselves and in relation to normative data for each country. Method: The subjects, 59 BPES and 65 CPES, were evaluated through IPAQ in its short form, and had their MP determined through a bioelectric scale and waist measurement to determine the cardiovascular risk. Results: As result we verified that between BPES and CPES only waist circumference (WC) had significant difference (p = 0.016), being higher for CPES males. Comparing the results of the subjects with normative data, with the exception of CPES males, we observed higher LPA, better MP, and lower WC values. Female CPES were more active than their male peers, the opposite being true for the Brazilian subjects. Conclusion: We conclude that the repetitive exposition to information regarding the benefits of physical activity and the access to installations that allows for its practice not only raises LPA of physical education students, but also improves, in general, their MP and cardiovascular risk.

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a influência da caminhada em variáveis cognitivas e antropométricas de mulheres idosas. Foram recrutadas 30 mulheres destreinadas, sem doenças neurodegenerativas, com média de idade de 64,40 ± 3,71 anos, divididas por conveniência em grupo de intervenção (n = 16) e controle (n = 14). O grupo de intervenção foi submetido à prática de jogos desportivos, caminhada e alongamento, em ambientes abertos, durante três meses, duas vezes por semana. O grupo controle não participou de nenhum programa de atividade física. Antes e após a intervenção, todas as idosas foram submetidas aos testes Códigos WAIS-III, Color Trail Test (CTT-A e CTT-B), e medidas de massa corporal e estatura (determinação do índice de massa corporal – IMC), circunferência da cintura e do quadril (razão cintura-quadril – RCQ). O grupo de intervenção melhorou o desempenho no teste Códigos WAIS-III (Δ = 8,68; IC95%: 6,7; 10,7) e reduziu os tempos de execução dos testes CTT-A (Δ = -7,94; IC95%: -13,1; -2,8) e CTT-B (Δ = -18,59; IC95%: -31,4; -5,8). As modificações do grupo controle não foram estatisticamente significativas (p > 0,05). Conclui-se que a prática de caminhada pode melhorar habilidades cognitivas de mulheres idosas destreinadas.

The objective of this systematic review was to identify the association between overweight/obesity and level of physical activity in Brazilian children and adolescents in the school setting. For search strategy, the main reference databases (PubMed, LILACS, SciELO, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, ERIC) were used. Baseline searches resulted in 3,265 potentially relevant titles (2,775 titles after removal of duplicate studies); 21 studies met all inclusion criteria and were included for analysis. Studies were carried out from 2007 to 2019; 47.6% of them were conducted in Southern Brazil, and only one study had nationwide approach. Prevalence from 5.4% to 21% was identified for overweight, 3.5% to 16.9% for obesity and 11.8% to 40.1% for overweight + obesity. According to results, 64.3% of overweight, 69.8% of obese and 37.7% of young overweight people were considered insufficiently active. The non-standardization of instruments to assess levels of physical activity and the lack of information regarding other Brazilian regions were classified as important limitations. The results reinforce the increase in the prevalence of overweight in Brazilian children and adolescents, and the high prevalence of physical inactivity among them. For every ten overweight children/adolescents, six are reported to be insufficiently active. O objetivo desta revisão sistemática foi identificar a associação entre excesso de peso, obesidade e nível de atividade física em crianças e adolescentes brasileiros, no ambiente escolar. A busca eletrônica foi realizada nas principais bases de dados de referência (PubMed, LILACS, SciELO, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, ERIC). A pesquisas nas bases resultaram em 3265 títulos potencialmente relevantes (2775 títulos após análise duplicada); 21 estudos preencheram todos os critérios de inclusão e foram analisados. Os estudos foram realizados entre 2007 e 2019, 47,6 % deles foram realizados no sul do Brasil, e apenas uma pesquisa foi realizada a nível nacional. Foi identificado prevalências de 5,4% a 21% para sobrepeso, 3,5% a 16,9% para obesidade e 11,8% a 40,1% para excesso de peso (obesidade + sobrepeso). De acordo com os resultados, 64,3% dos jovens com sobrepeso, 69,8% dos obesos e 37,7% daqueles com excesso de peso foram considerados insuficientemente ativos. A não padronização dos instrumentos para avaliar os níveis de atividade física e a pouca representatividade de outras regiões brasileiras foram classificadas como lacunas importantes. Os resultados reforçam o aumento da prevalência de excesso de peso em crianças e adolescentes no Brasil, e a alta prevalência de inatividade física entre estes jovens. A cada dez jovens acima do peso, seis são insuficientemente ativos.

Background and purpose Although combining classical resistance (RT) and power training (PT) might be an efficient strategy to achieve optimal enhancements in body composition and physical function in older adults, the most effective approach to combine these different types of exercise training is still unknown. Periodization, an organizational model that refers to a succession of cycle that will vary in exercise intensity and/or volume to allow for the training stimulus to remain biologically challenging and effective, may represent an interesting approach. Among the different types of periodization, daily undulating periodization (DUP) has attracted considerable attention given its superiority in comparison to nonperiodized (NP) RT programs to elicit neuromuscular improvements in young adults. However, whether a DUP program combining PT and traditional RT can produce similar or greater improvements in body composition and physical function in older adults than a NP RT program has not yet been established. Therefore, the present study compared the effects of a DUP and NP programs on body composition and physical function in healthy community-dwelling older women. Methods Forty-two older women (60–79 years) were randomized into one of the three experimental groups: NP, DUP, and control group (CG). Body composition and physical function were assessed at baseline and after the intervention. The sessions of exercises were performed twice a week over 22 weeks. In NP, the two exercise sessions were based on three sets of 8–10 repetitions at a “difficult” intensity (i.e., 5–6) prescribed based on the Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale. In DUP, the first session was based on PT (three sets of 8–10 repetitions at a “moderate” intensity, i.e., 3, performed as fast as possible), while the second session was similar to the NP. Results There were no significant changes in body composition in any of the groups. Relative to baseline, participants assigned to NP showed significant improvements in countermovement jump (+55.7%), timed “Up and Go” (TUG) test (−43.2%, faster), walking speed (+12.0%), and one-leg-stand (+154.5%). In contrast, DUP only improved TUG performance (−53.2%, faster). Conclusion NP and DUP improved physical function in community-dwelling older women, with greater improvements in physical parameters only observed after NP.

Aim: This study aimed to examine the association between physical activity (PA) indicators and TV viewing as a function of the Human Development Index (HDI). Method: This cross-sectional study was based on data from the National School Health Survey, which was composed of 102,072 students (14.28±1.03; 51.3% girls). Total PA, active commuting to school (ACS) and TV viewing were assessed by questionnaires and classified through a gradual scale ranging from “F” (low) to “A+” (high). The correlation between total PA, ACS, TV viewing and HDI was verified by Spearman’s Correlation and presented in rs. Results: HDI was positively associated with total PA [girls: rs = 0.572 (p < 0.001); boys: rs = 0.843 (p < 0.001)] and ACS [girls: rs = 0.433 (p < 0.001); boys: rs = 0.554 (p < 0.001)]; while a negative correlation was found between HDI and TV viewing [girls: rs = -0.330 (p < 0.001); boys: rs = -0.348 (p < 0.001)]. Conclusions: Brazilian adolescents from states with higher HDI were more active and spent more time watching TV than their counterparts from states with lower HDI.

Descrever a distribuição do autorrelato de asma e identificar os fatores associados em escolares brasileiros, conforme região e sexo. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, utilizando dados da Amostra 1, da PeNSE 2015 (n = 95387). Para a análise descritiva, utilizou-se as medidas de frequência absoluta e relativa. Para a verificação dos fatores associados à asma em adolescentes brasileiros, utilizou-se a regressão logística binária, assumindo o seguinte modelo hierárquico: Bloco Sociodemográfico: Sexo, idade, raça; Bloco Ambiental: Região, tipo de município; Bloco Comportamental: Consumo de tabaco, nível de atividade física, sendo utilizado como desfecho a variável “asma alguma vez na vida”, analisando a resposta da questão “Você teve asma alguma vez na vida?”. Verifica-se maior prevalência de episódio de asma autorrelatado no sexo feminino (51,7%), observando-se maior chance deste autorrelatar asma (OR=1,07; IC95% 1,03-1,11) em relação ao sexo masculino. Não residir em capital apresentou 28% menos chances de autorrelatar asma (OR=0,78; IC95% = 0,75-0,80) e o adolescente não asmático tem 12% menos chance de ser ativo (OR=0,88; IC95% = 0,85-0,91). A prevalência de episódio autorrelatado de asma é menor para os residentes na Região Centro-Oeste. Contudo, é maior entre o sexo feminino, no adolescente que mora nas capitais brasileiras, verificando-se que o adolescente asmático tende a ser mais ativo que seus pares.

The present study compared the effects of traditional resistance training (TRT) and combined power training (PT) and TRT (PTRT) on cognitive parameters and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in non-demented, well-functioning, community-dwelling older women. Forty-five older women were randomized into one of three experimental groups: TRT, PTRT, and control group (CG). Cognitive tests explored global cognitive function, short-term memory, and dual-task performance. Serum BDNF levels were assessed at baseline and after the intervention. Exercise sessions were performed twice a week over 22 weeks. In TRT, exercise sessions were based on three sets of 8&ndash, 10 repetitions at &ldquo, difficult&rdquo, intensity. In PTRT, the first session was based on PT (three sets of 8&minus, moderate&rdquo, intensity), while the second session was similar to the TRT. Our analyses indicated that overall cognitive function, short-term memory, and dual-task performance were similarly improved after TRT and PTRT. Serum BDNF concentrations were not altered by any training protocol. In conclusion, the two RT programs tested in the present trial improved global cognitive function, short-term memory and dual task performance in non-demented, well-functioning, community-dwelling older women. In addition, our findings suggest that mechanisms other than BDNF may be associated with such improvements.

Aging comprises a dynamic and progressive process, characterized by physiological and functional changes. Among these changes, increase in body fat is considered relevant, since it can leads to impaired physical fitness and augmented cardiometabolic risks. Considering this, the objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of overweight on functional capacity of physically active older women. A field survey was performed with 24 older women who practiced physical exercise. Participants were submitted to anamnesis, anthropometric measures (i.e., body mass and height); the Senior Fitness test; sit and reach flexibility test; and handgrip strength test. Pearson’s correlation test and multivariate logistic regression were used to verify the association between overweight and functional capacity. It was observed that hip flexibility (R=-0.494, p=0.014) and flexibility of the lower limbs (i.e., sit and reach test) showed negative correlation with the body mass index (R=-0.446, p=0.02); and after the multivariate logistic regression, negative correlation of lower limbs flexibility (B= -0,035, p=0,014) and the body mass index was observed. Thus, higher the body mass index among participants, lower hip flexibility they presented. O envelhecimento compreende um processo dinâmico e progressivo. Caracteriza-se por alterações fisiológicas e funcionais, sendo a modificação na composição corporal com o acréscimo de gordura corpórea considerada relevante, podendo ocasionar comprometimento da aptidão física e alterações cardiometabólicas. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência do sobrepeso na capacidade funcional em idosas praticantes de exercício físico. Foi realizada uma pesquisa de campo correlacional com 24 idosas praticantes de exercício físico. Todas as idosas foram submetidas à anamnese, análise antropométrica com avaliação da massa corporal e estatura, capacidade funcional com a bateria de testes de Rikli e Jones (Sênior Fitness test), flexibilidade com o banco de Wells e força de preensão manual com o teste de preensão manual. Utilizou-se o teste de correlação de Pearson e a regressão logística multivariada pelo método Stepwise para verificar a associação entre sobrepeso e capacidade funcional. Observou-se que a flexibilidade de Quadril (R=-0,494, p=0,014) e a flexibilidade dos membros inferiores pelo banco de Wells (R=-0,446, p=0,02) apresentaram forte correlação negativa com o índice de massa corporal (IMC). Após a regressão logística multivariada, percebeu-se uma forte correlação negativa com a flexibilidade do quadril (B=-0,035, p=0,014). Assim, a flexibilidade do quadril entre as idosas ativas com sobrepeso reduziu com o aumento do IMC.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Sarcopenia is an emerging public health issue in Brazil. Because of its high prevalence and the lack of national data, the objective here was to identify cutoff points for appendicular skeletal muscle (ASM) and handgrip strength in relation to fear of falling among Brazilian older adults. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study; in the community. METHODS: Participants underwent morphological and functional evaluations; and were asked about previous falls and fear of falling. Different adjustments to ASM and handgrip strength were used. Slow walking speed was defined as < 0.8 m/s or 1.0 m/s. Gender and age groups were compared using t tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA), chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to identify cutoffs for ASM and handgrip strength in relation to fear of falling. RESULTS: 578 older adults participated in this study. Function levels decreased with increasing age, and body composition differed between the sexes. In relation to fear of falling, the cutoffs for ASM adjusted for body mass index (BMI) were < 0.85 for men and < 0.53 for women; the cutoffs for absolute handgrip strength and relative handgrip strength (adjusted for BMI) were 30.0 kgf and 21.7 kgf, and 1.07 and 0.66, for men and women, respectively. CONCLUSION: The values presented can be used as references in clinical practice and research. We recommend use of ASM adjusted for BMI and choosing between absolute and relative handgrip strength for men and women, according to study needs.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: In elderly people, measurement of several anthropometric parameters may present complications. Although neck circumference measurements seem to avoid these issues, the cutoffs and cardiovascular risk factors associated with this parameter among elderly people remain unknown. This study was developed to identify the cutoff values and cardiovascular risk factors associated with neck circumference measurements among elderly people. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted in two community centers for elderly people. METHODS: 435 elderly adults (371 women and 64 men) were recruited. These volunteers underwent morphological evaluations (body mass index and waist, hip, and neck circumferences) and hemodynamic evaluations (blood pressure values and heart rate). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were used to determine the predictive validity of cutoff values for neck circumference, for identifying overweight/obesity. Multivariate analysis was used to identify cardiovascular risk factors associated with large neck circumference. RESULTS: Cutoff values for neck circumference (men = 40.5 cm and women = 35.7 cm), for detection of obese older adults according to body mass index, were identified. After a second analysis, large neck circumference was shown to be associated with elevated body mass index in men; and elevated body mass index, blood pressure values, prevalence of type 2 diabetes and hypertension in women. CONCLUSION: The data indicate that neck circumference can be used as a screening tool to identify overweight/obesity in older people. Moreover, large neck circumference values may be associated with cardiovascular risk factors. RESUMO CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Em idosos, diversas ferramentas antropométricas podem apresentar complicações durante a mensuração. Embora a circunferência do pescoço pareça evitar tais problemas, os pontos de corte e fatores de risco cardiovascular associados a essa ferramenta em idosos permanecem desconhecidos. Este estudo foi desenvolvido para identificar os valores de ponto de corte e fatores de risco cardiovascular associados à circunferência do pescoço em idosos. DESENHO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal, realizado em dois centros comunitários para idosos. MÉTODOS: 435 idosos (371 mulheres e 64 homens) foram recrutados. Os voluntários foram submetidos a avaliação morfológica (índice de massa corporal e cintura, quadril, e circunferência do pescoço) e hemodinâmica (valores da pressão arterial e frequência cardíaca). A análise pela curva receiver operating characteristic foi usada para determinar o valor preditivo dos valores de ponto de corte da circunferência do pescoço para identificação de sobrepeso/obesidade. Análise multivariada foi usada para identificar os fatores de risco cardiovascular associados com circunferência do pescoço larga. RESULTADOS: Os valores de corte para circunferência do pescoço (homens = 40,5 cm e mulheres = 35,7 cm) para detectar adultos idosos obesos, de acordo com o índice de massa corporal, foram identificados. Depois da segunda análise, circunferência do pescoço larga foi associada com elevado índice de massa corporal em homens e mulheres e elevados valores de pressão arterial, prevalência de diabetes mellitus tipo II e hipertensão em mulheres. CONCLUSÃO: Os dados indicam que a circunferência do pescoço pode ser utilizada como ferramenta de rastreio para identificar sobrepeso/obesidade em idosos. Ademais, altos valores de circunferência do pescoço podem estar associados com fatores de risco cardiovascular.

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare physical fitness, quality of life and domains of frailty between physically frail and robust older women, whose was classified by the physical domain from Kihon Checklist. Method: One hundred and thirty-two community-dwelling older women participated in the study (68.5 ± 6.1 years). Data were collected through questionnaires (sociodemographic, Kihon Checklist, Short Form-8 items) and physical and functional tests. Results: Most frail older women lived alone (P

Aim To investigate whether the Kihon Checklist (KCL) can predict frailty and disability. Methods The studies analyzed for the present review were retrieved by searching electronic databases and other sources using the keywords “Kihon Checklist” and “Basic Checklist.” The articles were restricted to those written in English and published in health sciences journals from the year 2006 until the end of April 2015. To be included in the full analysis, the study had to be primary research and use the KCL as a dependent or independent variable. Results A total of 62 articles were identified in the initial search, and after screening, 13 articles were included in this review. The KCL was found to be closely correlated with validated assessments of frailty phenotypes. The complete version of the KCL and specific domains have been used as research outcomes to verify frailty in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. KCL domains were applied to evaluate different outcomes, such as depressive mood, functional disability and instrumental activities of daily living limitations. Conclusions The KCL is a reliable tool for predicting general frailty and frailty aspects in older adults. The KCL was shown to be adequate for cross-cultural studies and to be suitable for addressing frailty demands among elderly in multiple cohorts. The KCL is a short questionnaire, which makes its administration by health promoters easy; thus, it has been used to evaluate the effectiveness of frailty interventions. We strongly recommend use of the KCL in community and clinical practice to assess frailty status. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 893-902.

[Purpose] The aim of this technical note was to report significant differences in the tension forces of the different-sized Thera-band(®) elastic bands (Hygenic Corp.) determined by us versus the manufacturer. [Subjects] Two trained observers performed all measurements. [Methods] The tension force (kilogram-force units) of eight color-coded elastic bands (tan, yellow, red, green, blue, black, silver, and gold) with different resistance levels was measured at 10 different percentages of elongation (25% to 250% with 25% increments) using an electronic elongation gauge tensiometer. [Results] There were significant differences in the tension force of the elastic bands of different colors when compared in pairs (excepting the tan/yellow pair) at 100% and 200% elongation, as determined via one-way analysis of variance. There were no differences in the slopes for the tan versus yellow and green versus blue bands, as determined via linear regression analysis and one-way analysis of variance. Comparison of the tension force values obtained in our study with the reference values of the manufacturer (the t-test applied to the slopes) showed significant differences for five colors (yellow, green, blue, silver, and gold). [Conclusion] Our results indicate that the tension force values for Thera-Band elastic bands provided by the manufacturer are overestimates.

AIM: To investigate the lifestyles, physical performance and quality of life (QOL) of frail and robust Brazilian community-dwelling older women, and to identify risk factors for frailty. METHODS: Frailty was assessed using the Kihon Checklist. Lifestyles were assessed using a questionnaire. Physical performance was assessed by measuring walking speeds, performance on the one-leg stand test and the five-times chair stand test and handgrip strength. QOL was assessed using the Short Form-8 questionnaire. Participants were divided into frail and robust groups based on their total Kihon Checklist scores. RESULTS: A total of 109 participants (age 70.8 ± 6.87 years) were included in this study (robust n = 85, frail n = 24). Differences in living structures (P CONCLUSIONS: Frail participants had higher indices for being housebound, and having financial dissatisfaction, a sedentary lifestyle, falls, and malnutrition. Furthermore, they showed poorer physical performance and QOL. An early, well-focused approach is crucial, especially for older adults who walk slowly and have bodily pain to preserve health and QOL. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; ●●: ●●-●●. Language: en

Aim To investigate frailty in Japanese, Brazilian Japanese descendants and Brazilian older women. Methods The collected data included sociodemographic and health-related characteristics, and the frailty index Kihon Checklist. We analyzed the differences between the mean scores of Kihon Checklist domains (using ancova) and the percentage of frail women (using χ2-test). We carried out a binary logistic regression with Kihon Checklist domains. Results A total of 211 participants (Japanese n = 84, Brazilian Japanese descendants n = 55, Brazilian n = 72) participated in this research. The Brazilian participants had the highest total Kihon Checklist scores (more frail), whereas the Brazilian Japanese descendants had the lowest scores (P

[Background/purpose]Day care centers are rapidly expanding in Brazil to meet the needs of the increasing older population. However, health profiles of their clients remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate and compare the health conditions of users and nonusers of a day care center using a new frailty index, the Kihon Checklist. [Methods]This was a cross-sectional observational study. We recruited 59 users (mean age 81.1 ± 6.69 years) and 173 nonusers (mean age 69.9 ± 7.39 years). The nonusers were recruited at a recreational club and municipal health units, and the users were recruited at a day care center for the elderly in Brazil. Measurements consisted of questionnaires regarding sociodemographic and health-related characteristics and the Kihon Checklist. [Results]Compared with the nonusers, users had a higher prevalence of frailty (p < 0.001) and impairment of all specific domains (instrumental activities of daily living impairment, p < 0.001; physical inactivity, p < 0.001; seclusion, p < 0.001; cognitive deficit, p < 0.001; and depression, p < 0.001). The users were also more likely to be frail [odds ratio (OR), 14.226; 95% confidence interval (CI), 5.423–37.320; p < 0.001], dependence in instrumental activities of daily living (OR, 78.845; 95% CI, 19.569–317.674; p < 0.001), physically inactive (OR, 3.509; 95% CI, 1.467–8.394; p = 0.005), cognitively impaired (OR, 5.887; 95% CI, 2.360–14.686; p < 0.001), and depressed (OR, 5.175; 95% CI, 2.322–11.531; p < 0.001) than the nonusers. [Conclusion]The users of the day care center were frailer than nonusers, especially with regard to independence in instrumental activities of daily living, physical strength, cognitive function, and mood. Health care workers should use the Kihon Checklist to verify frequently the condition of elderly patients to prevent worsening of frailty.

Aim To examine whether arterial stiffness, measured by the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), is associated with skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) in Japanese community-dwelling older adults. Methods Data were collected from 175 participants through questionnaires and specific tests; the data included demographic, lifestyle and health characteristics, body mass index (BMI), and body composition features determined by the bioelectrical impedance analysis, ankle-brachial index, the Mini-Nutritional Assessment, handgrip strength (GS), walking speed and shuttle walking tests (SW), and arterial stiffness determined by the CAVI. Absolute SMI was dichotomized according to the first quintile, which determined low (n = 35) and normal (n = 140) SMI. Results Participants with low SMI were older (P = 0.01), had more polypharmacy (P = 0.01), a lower BMI (P

Background/Purpose: Aging populations are a global public health concern. The risk of falls increases with age, so fall prevention is becoming an important health issue. However, few studies have focused on cross-cultural analyses of falls. Therefore, we aimed to compare the incidence of falls and compare anthropometric measures and physical function between active Japanese and Brazilian older adults. Materials and methods: We measured the incidence of falls (investigated by self-reported questionnaire), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), grip strength (GS), one-legged stance (BALANCE), frequency of physical activity (PA), medication use (MU), and hospitalization history in 114 physically active community-dwelling adults 65 years of age and older in Japan (73.9 � 4.0 years, n ¼ 40) and Brazil (70.7 � 4.5 years, n ¼ 74). Results: The Japanese elderly were older (p < 0.01), but had a better BALANCE score (p < 0.05) than the Brazilian elderly. Nevertheless, Brazilian elderly showed higher engagement in PA and had higher BMI and WC (p < 0.01). Despite the lack of a difference in the incidence of falls between the two cohorts, Japanese elderly who fell had decreased GS compared to Japanese elderly who did not fall [odds ratio (OR): 0.83, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.72e0.97, p < 0.05]. In Brazil, those who fell had larger WC than those who did not fall (OR: 1.07, 95% CI 1.01 e 1.13, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Our results indicate that physical function (i.e., grip strength) is a more important predictor of falls in Japanese elderly. However, increasing waist size is a predictor of falls in Brazilian elderly. These findings suggest that risk factors for falls are multifactorial and vary according to setting. Copyright 2013, Asia Pacific League of Clinical Gerontology & Geriatrics. Published by Elsevier Taiwan LLC.

Aim To translate the Japanese Kihon Checklist (frailty index) into the Portuguese language, and to validate the use of the checklist for the assessment of the elderly Brazilian population. Methods A semantic analysis was carried out, along with pretesting of bilingual participants. The checklist was validated against the Edmonton Frail Scale. Results A total of 188 Brazilian older adults (mean age 69.5 ± 7.47 years) participated in the present study. In the semantic analysis, six elderly participants reported no difficulty with responding to the Portuguese version of the Kihon Checklist. During pretesting with 21 bilingual participants, we found a strong correlation between the total scores of the original version of the Kihon Checklist in Japanese and the translated version in Portuguese (r = 0.764, P

Our study aimed to investigate the physical performance and quality of life (QOL) as associated factors with self-rated health (SRH). Japanese community-dwelling women aged 65 years or more (n = 51; mean age = 75.3 ± 6.0) answered a questionnaire regarding socio-demographic information, SRH, QOL by the Short Form-8, and performed the physical tests, such as Timed Up and Go, Functional Reach (FR), One Leg Stand (OLS), Five Chair Stands (CS), and hand grip strength (HGS). Smoking (p = 0.04), more medical consultations (p = 0.03), and more number of medications (p = 0.001) were significantly associated with poor self-assessment of their health. Moreover, those who assessed their health condition as not so good to bad condition had lower performance in FR (p = 0.02), HGS (p = 0.04), OLS (p = 0.05), and CS (p = 0.02), and poorer QOL condition in general health (p < 0.01), bodily pain (p = 0.02), and vitality (p = 0.03) in comparison with the other SRH groups (good and/or normal). Therefore, we encourag...

[Background/Purpose]Assessment of physical performance allows the identification of health and functional independence among older adults. Several factors, such as environmental conditions, influence the results; therefore our objective was to compare the physical performance and the health status between older Japanese women living in urban and rural communities. [Methods]The Japanese women were aged ≥65 years, and recruited in urban (n = 41, age = 73.8 ± 3.92 years) and rural (n = 54, age = 73.8 ± 4.15 years) locations through the local press. Physical performance was assessed by the Timed Up and Go (TUG), one leg stand (OLS), repeated chair stands (CS) and handgrip strength (HGS) tests. Health status was investigated using socio-demographic characteristics; anthropometric measures and body composition; physical activity, a pedometer, Life-Space Assessment (LSA); Geriatric Depression Scale; incidence of falls, fear of falling; and medical information. Variables were compared by χ2 test, Independent-Samples t test and Mann Whitney U-test. [Results]Rural individuals presented a better performance in the HGS test (p = 0.01) than urban individuals, who had a better performance in the CS test (p < 0.001). No statistical differences were found in the TUG or OLS tests. Rural women also had a higher body mass index (p = 0.04), waist circumference (p < 0.01), and body fat percentage (p = 0.014) than urban women, who showed higher scores in LSA (p < 0.001). Concerning medical information, more rural women complained of low back pain (p = 0.01) and gastrointestinal problems (p = 0.02). [Conclusion]Our findings showed that the physical performance and health status varied according to the place. Rural individuals had worse results in the CS test, but a better performance in the HGS test than urban individuals. We emphasize that health interventions should address the specific demand of each location.

Introduction. Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome associated with impairment of muscle function, metabolism, and cognition in older women. Recent studies have shown a relationship between changes in muscle mass and the cardiovascular system. However, this relationship has not been fully elucidated.Methods. One hundred and thirty community-dwelling Brazilian older women (65.4 ± 6.3 years) were recruited to participate in this study. Data on body composition (via bioelectrical impedance measurements), cardiovascular parameters (using an automatic and noninvasive monitor), and muscle function (using a 3-meter gait speed test) were measured.Results. Sarcopenic older women (n=43) presented higher levels of pulse pressure (PP) (60.3 ± 2.6 mmHg) and lower muscle function (0.5 ± 0.0 m/s) compared with nonsarcopenic subjects (n=87) (53.7 ± 1.5 mmHg; 0.9 ± 0.0 m/s) (P<0.05). Linear regression analysis demonstrated a significantly negative association between skeletal muscle index (SMI) and PP levels (β=−226,P<0.05). Furthermore, sarcopenic older women showed a 3.1-fold increased risk of having higher PP levels compared with nonsarcopenic women (IC = 1.323–7.506) (P<0.05).Conclusion. Sarcopenic older women showed lower muscle function and higher cardiovascular risk due to increased PP levels compared with nonsarcopenic subjects.

Background/purpose Chronic pain is commonly associated with disability and poor quality of life (QOL). This condition has a significant impact on the physical, psychological, and social well-being of older adults. However, the studies carried out in Brazil are insufficient to represent the multicultural characteristics of the country. It is believed that cultural/environmental differences may influence health management quality, with implications for older adults' health and QOL. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the factors related to bodily pain in older female participants in a recreational program in Brazil. Methods This study used a cross-sectional design. The participants were community-dwelling women (60 years or older, n = 99), categorized by low ( n = 68) or high ( n = 31) bodily pain. They answered questionnaires regarding their general health and lifestyle, and performed several physical tests. Data were analyzed with Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables and Mann–Whitney U test for continuous variables. Logistic regression was performed to identify confounding factors. Results A fully adjusted logistic regression analysis demonstrated that walking at maximum speed [odds ratio (OR), 0.03; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.003–0.35; p = 0.005], one leg stand (OR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.88–0.99; p = 0.03), and the QOL physical functioning domain (OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.87–0.98; p = 0.01) were all associated with bodily pain. Conclusion In summary, bodily pain is significantly associated with poor maximum walking speed, balance, and QOL physical functioning; these findings are reflective of poor QOL. Assessing bodily pain is simple and can help diagnose further problems. Moreover, improvements in physical conditioning may promote greater health and QOL in this population.

Background/PurposeQuality of life (QOL) is an important health outcome of the aged population, and it is determined by many factors. Evidence shows that the place where older people live is associated with their health and QOL; however, the environmental factors of QOL have not been clearly investigated. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to verify the difference in QOL between Japanese elderly people living in rural and urban areas and the role of activity and participation routine in their QOL.MethodsParticipants were 830 community-dwelling older adults recruited in a municipal college in an urban area (n = 550, age = 68.5 ± 4.3 years) and in a health center in a rural area (n = 280, age = 69.8 ± 7.8 years), both in Japan. QOL was assessed by WHOQOL-BREF and WHOQOL-OLD, both developed by the World Health Organization. The occupational routine was measured by a questionnaire concerning frequency of engagement in several activities. Variables were compared by t test, Chi-square test and the Mann–Whitney U test. Additionally, multiple regression analysis was used to verify the relation between QOL and occupational routine.ResultsParticipants living in the urban area had higher QOL scores than those living in the rural area (BREF urban = 3.68 ± 0.42 vs. rural = 3.43 ± 0.40, p