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Norheim KL, Samani A, Madeleine P. The effects of age on response time, accuracy, and shoulder/arm kinematics during hammering. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2021; 90:103157. [PMID: 32932014 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of age on response time and accuracy during a hammering task. Older male workers aged 51-69 years (older group: OG, n = 23) and younger male reference individuals aged 25-36 years (younger group: YG, n = 16) performed the experiment. Response time, accuracy, and 3D shoulder/arm kinematics were acquired using motion capture. The effects of age were investigated using linear mixed model analysis. Response times were significantly longer for OG compared with YG (P < 0.001) while no marked differences in the accuracy was observed (P = 0.729). OG showed less hammer displacement and smaller range of motion in the shoulder. Although older workers seemed to use a less biomechanical demanding motor strategy, their response times during hammering were about twice that of younger individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristoffer L Norheim
- Sport Sciences - Performance and Technology, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Afshin Samani
- Sport Sciences - Performance and Technology, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Pascal Madeleine
- Sport Sciences - Performance and Technology, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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2
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Physical performances show conflicting associations in aged manual workers. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2254. [PMID: 32042126 PMCID: PMC7010773 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59050-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ageing is associated with a decrease in physical performance implying that aged manual workers may be unable to match the physical requirements of their jobs. In this cross-sectional study, 96 male manual workers aged 51–72 years were recruited. Outcomes included handgrip strength (HGS), fat-free mass (FFM), fat percentage, cardiorespiratory fitness (\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$$\dot{{\rm{V}}}$$\end{document}V˙O2max), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume after 1 s (FEV1), spinal flexibility, sit-to-stand test performance and static balance. Covariates included height, smoking habits, leisure-time physical activity and systemic inflammation from blood samples. Outcomes were also compared with general populations. Age was negatively related to FFM and FEV1, whereas static balance (velocity of displacement) was positively associated with age. Greater HGS, but poorer \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$$\dot{{\rm{V}}}$$\end{document}V˙O2max and FEV1/FEV ratio were found compared with general populations. Age was negatively related with physical performances although a large part of the variance in performance could be explained by factors other than age such as smoking and systemic inflammation. The manual workers had greater muscle strength but had poorer cardiorespiratory fitness and lung function when compared with general populations. Specific health interventions targeting specifically cardiorespiratory fitness, lung function, and balance may be needed to maintain physical performances among manual workers.
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Račić M, Pavlović J, Ivković N. Handgrip Strength Cut-Off Values for the Undernutrition Risk Screening among Elderly Men and Women in Bosnia and Herzegovina. J Aging Res 2019; 2019:5726073. [PMID: 31781394 PMCID: PMC6875213 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5726073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the optimal cut-off points of handgrip strength (HGS) to identify the undernutrition risk among individuals older than 65 years of age in Bosnia and Herzegovina. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Towns of Sarajevo, Foca, Rogatica, and Pale in Bosnia and Herzegovina. PARTICIPANTS 300 community-dwelling older adults and 146 nursing home residents. Comprehensive Geriatric multidimensional assessment (CGA) was carried out to evaluate general health, functional, and cognitive capabilities. Nutritional status and undernutrition risk were assessed by Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) and Seniors in the Community: risk evaluation for eating and nutrition, version II (SCREEN II). HGS was measured with a Smedley dynamometer. RESULTS According to the classification of nutritional status by MNA, 42% of community-dwelling men and 39% of community-dwelling women were at undernutrition risk. The undernutrition risk was significantly higher among nursing home residing men (89%) and women (78%) (p < 0.001). When nutritional status was assessed by SCREEN II, 100% on nursing home residents, 86% of community-dwelling men and 80% of women were identified as having a high risk for undernutrition. Per MNA, HGS cut-off thresholds were 23.50 kgF (65-74 years) and 19.50 kgF (≥75 years) for men; 15.50 kgF (65-74 years) and 13.50 kgF (≥75 years) for women. Per SCREEN II, cut-points were 28.50 kgF (65-74 years) and 24.50 kgF (≥75 years) for men; 24.50 kgF (65-74 years), 19.50 kgF (≥75 years for women). CONCLUSION HGS can be a useful instrument to identify undernutrition risk among the elderly patients. This study provides threshold for men and women older than 65 years of age in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Račić
- Thomas J. Stephens & Associates Research Center, 3635 W Altadena Ave, Phoenix 85029, USA
| | - Jelena Pavlović
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine in Foca, University of East Sarajevo, Studentska 5, 7330 Foca, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Nedeljka Ivković
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine in Foca, University of East Sarajevo, Studentska 5, 7330 Foca, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Bláfoss R, Sundstrup E, Jakobsen MD, Bay H, Garde AH, Andersen LL. Are Insomnia Type Sleep Problems Associated With a Less Physically Active Lifestyle? A Cross-Sectional Study Among 7,700 Adults From the General Working Population. Front Public Health 2019; 7:117. [PMID: 31139609 PMCID: PMC6527891 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Sleep problems are common in the general population and negatively affect both private and work life. A vicious circle may exist between poor sleep and an unhealthy lifestyle. For example, poor sleep may drain the energy to do health-promoting physical activity during leisure-time after work. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between sleep problems and the duration of low- and high-intensity leisure-time physical activity in sedentary and physical workers. Methods: This cross-sectional study employ data from the Danish Work Environment Cohort Study in 2010, where currently employed wage-earners in Denmark on daytime schedule (N = 7,706) replied to questions about sleep quality (cf. the Bergen Insomnia Scale) and participation in low- and high-intensity leisure-time physical activity. Associations were modeled using general linear models controlling for various confounders. Results: Workers with high levels of sleep problems reported less high-intensity leisure-time physical activity. Specifically, the weekly duration of high-intensity leisure-time physical activity was 139 (95%CI 111-168), 129 (95%CI 101-158), and 122 (95%CI 92-151) min in sedentary workers with sleep problems < 1, 1-3, and ≥3 days per week, respectively. The same pattern was observed among physical workers. In sedentary workers ≥50 years, the fully adjusted model showed a weekly duration in high-intensity physical activity during leisure of 122 (95%CI 83-161), 102 (95%CI 64-141), and 90 (95%CI 51-130) among those with sleep problems < 1, 1-3, and ≥3 days per week, respectively. Conclusions: Workers, particularly sedentary older workers, having sleep problems report less high-intensity leisure-time physical activity. These data suggest that a vicious circle may indeed exist between poor sleep and reduced leisure-time physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rúni Bláfoss
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emil Sundstrup
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Hans Bay
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Helene Garde
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Louis Andersen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Sport Sciences, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Factors associated with the prevalence of sarcopenia and frailty syndrome in elderly university workers. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2019; 82:172-178. [PMID: 30807901 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frailty and sarcopenia are highly prevalent, as a part of geriatric syndrome, among elderly individuals. However, little is known about how these syndromes can affect elderly individuals who continue to work. OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of sarcopenia and frailty, and their individual and occupational factors among elderly individuals. METHODS This cross-sectional study included elderly individuals working in a public university in Brazil, who were classified according to their sarcopenia and frailty profiles. They answered a structured questionnaire comprising potential explanatory variables: individual sociodemographic factors, work related factors, and health behaviors. Additionally, they performed a physical performance test. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios and respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). All analyses were conducted using the Stata 13.0 software, considering a significance of 5%. RESULTS Respectively, 55.8% and 6.3% of the elderly participants were classified in the Sarcopenia and Severe Sarcopenia groups. Frailty prevalence was 9.4%, with 62.5% classified as Pre-frail. Sarcopenia prevalence was significantly higher among men, and among those living with a partner, with a university degree, exhibiting poor lower limb function, and with multiple work demands. Frailty prevalence was significantly higher among women, and among those living without a partner, having a low educational level, with less work experience, working in an unhealthy/dangerous environment, and whose job was predominantly physical. CONCLUSION This study identified different potential trigger factors for the development of sarcopenia and frailty. These findings confirm that individual and work factors could explain the incidence of sarcopenia and frailty syndrome.
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Norheim KL, Samani A, Bønløkke JH, Omland Ø, Madeleine P. The effects of age and musculoskeletal pain on force variability among manual workers. Hum Mov Sci 2019; 64:19-27. [PMID: 30641456 DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2018.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated the influence of age and musculoskeletal pain on force variability during a continuous isometric handgrip force task performed at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction carried out until failure. We recruited 96 male manual workers aged 51-72 years. The participants were stratified according to their age (50-59 and 60+ years) and by pain status (no pain, acute pain and chronic pain). The amplitude and structure of variability expressed as respectively standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variation (CV), and sample entropy (SaEn) were calculated from the endurance task. The oldest group had an approximately 18% longer endurance time than the youngest group. No between-group differences were found in SD or CV, whereas a significant interaction between age and pain stage was found for SaEn. The youngest group showed lower SaEn than the oldest for both those with chronic pain and those without pain, indicating less force complexity, whereas a tendency for the opposite was found in the acute pain group. Within the pain stage groups, workers with acute pain had higher SaEn compared with both the no pain and chronic pain groups. These findings suggest that age and musculoskeletal pain differentially affects the structure of force variability in manual workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristoffer Larsen Norheim
- Sport Sciences, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Afshin Samani
- Sport Sciences, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Jakob Hjort Bønløkke
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Øyvind Omland
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Pascal Madeleine
- Sport Sciences, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
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Sanders MJ. Older Manufacturing Workers and Adaptation to Age-Related Changes. Am J Occup Ther 2018; 72:7203205060p1-7203205060p11. [PMID: 29689175 DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2018.021238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to understand the age-related changes, adaptations, and contexts that support older workers in the manufacturing sector. METHOD In a multiple-case study, 10 older workers from two manufacturing companies completed the Job Content Questionnaire, Health and Productivity Questionnaire, and semistructured interviews and underwent task observations for 8 hr over 4 mo. RESULTS Age-related changes affecting job tasks included near vision, upper extremity strength, grip strength, joint stiffness, and endurance. Older workers adapted job tasks by changing their work style, using equipment available, and relying on close coworkers for assistance. They adapted their personal lifestyle to maintain the energy necessary to meet job demands. Organizational contexts that supported older workers highlighted job control, social support, and mutual respect. CONCLUSION This study suggests that occupational therapy practitioners can provide individualized adaptations, environmental modifications, and health promotion strategies to help older workers meet job demands while balancing work and home occupations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha J Sanders
- Martha J. Sanders, PhD, MSOSH, OTR/L, CPE, is Professor of Occupational Therapy, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT;
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8
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Norheim KL, Hjort Bønløkke J, Samani A, Omland Ø, Madeleine P. The Effect of Aging on Physical Performance Among Elderly Manual Workers: Protocol of a Cross-Sectional Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2017; 6:e226. [PMID: 29167091 PMCID: PMC5719227 DOI: 10.2196/resprot.8196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2012, the Danish Parliament decided to increase retirement age. Unfortunately, elderly people working in a physically demanding environment may be rendered unable to retain the ability to adequately perform the physical requirements of their jobs, due to age-related decreases in physical performance. Therefore, increasing the retirement age may not necessarily lead to the goal of keeping everybody in the labor market for a longer time. To date, our knowledge about the variations in physical performance of the elderly workforce is limited. OBJECTIVE In this cross-sectional study we seek to investigate the effects of aging on physical performance among elderly manual workers. METHODS Approximately 100 Danish manual workers between 50 and 70 years of age will be recruited. The main measurement outcomes include: (1) inflammatory status from blood samples; (2) body composition; (3) lung function; (4) static and dynamic balance; (5) reaction time, precision, and movement variability during a hammering task; (6) handgrip strength, rate of force development, and force tracking; (7) estimated maximal rate of oxygen consumption; and (8) back mobility. Additionally, information regarding working conditions, physical activity levels, and health status will be assessed with a questionnaire. RESULTS Data collection is expected to take place between autumn 2017 and spring 2018. CONCLUSIONS This study will increase the knowledge regarding variations in physical performance in the elderly workforce and may identify potential workplace hazards. Moreover, this study might shed light on the potentially problematic decision to increase retirement age for all Danish citizens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristoffer Larsen Norheim
- Physical Activity and Human Performance, SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Occupational Medicine, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jakob Hjort Bønløkke
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Afshin Samani
- Physical Activity and Human Performance, SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Øyvind Omland
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Pascal Madeleine
- Physical Activity and Human Performance, SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Gilles MA, Guélin JC, Desbrosses K, Wild P. Motor adaptation capacity as a function of age in carrying out a repetitive assembly task at imposed work paces. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2017; 64:47-55. [PMID: 28610813 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The working population is getting older. Workers must adapt to changing conditions to respond to the efforts required by the tasks they have to perform. In this laboratory-based study, we investigated the capacities of motor adaptation as a function of age and work pace. Two phases were identified in the task performed: a collection phase, involving dominant use of the lower limbs; and an assembly phase, involving bi-manual motor skills. Results showed that senior workers were mainly limited during the collection phase, whereas they had less difficulty completing the assembly phase. However, senior workers did increase the vertical force applied while assembling parts, whatever the work pace. In younger and middle-aged subjects, vertical force was increased only for the faster pace. Older workers could adapt to perform repetitive tasks under different time constraints, but adaptation required greater effort than for younger workers. These results point towards a higher risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders among seniors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine Annie Gilles
- Working Life Department, INRS Lorraine, 1, Rue Du Morvan, CS60027, 54 519 Vandœuvre Cedex, France.
| | - Jean-Charles Guélin
- Working Life Department, INRS Lorraine, 1, Rue Du Morvan, CS60027, 54 519 Vandœuvre Cedex, France
| | - Kévin Desbrosses
- Working Life Department, INRS Lorraine, 1, Rue Du Morvan, CS60027, 54 519 Vandœuvre Cedex, France
| | - Pascal Wild
- Working Life Department, INRS Lorraine, 1, Rue Du Morvan, CS60027, 54 519 Vandœuvre Cedex, France
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Mendes J, Amaral TF, Borges N, Santos A, Padrão P, Moreira P, Afonso C, Negrão R. Handgrip strength values of Portuguese older adults: a population based study. BMC Geriatr 2017; 17:191. [PMID: 28835211 PMCID: PMC5569490 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-017-0590-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Handgrip strength is used to identify sarcopenia and frailty phenotypes, being a potential predictor of mortality in older adults. However, uniformity is lacking in the reference values. This study aimed to describe handgrip strength values of older population aged ≥65 years in Portugal, considering the possible influence of anthropometric parameters. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in Portugal, among 1500 older adults aged ≥65 years old, according to “The Nutrition UP 65 Study Protocol”. Demographic data were collected and cognitive performance, subjective general health, physical activity, anthropometric parameters and nutritional status were assessed and analysed. Handgrip strength data was obtained with a Jamar dynamometer. A Pubmed/Medline search was carried out to compare handgrip strength data between Portuguese older adults and other older populations. Results Handgrip strength was higher among men than among women (30.3 ± 9.2 Kgf vs 18 ± 5.4 Kgf, p < 0.001, respectively). In general, handgrip strength values of Portuguese older adults were lower than other older populations. In our sample, age, cognitive and nutritional status, self-reported sitting time and practice of physical activity were significantly correlated with handgrip strength in both sexes. Concerning anthropometric parameters, height was the most significantly correlated with handgrip strength (r = 0.34, p < 0.001, in women and r = 0.40, p < 0.001, in men). Conclusion This study described, for the first time, handgrip strength values of Portuguese population aged ≥65 years, according to age and to sex-specific tertiles of height. The definition of handgrip strength reference values in this age group merits further reflection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Mendes
- Department of Biomedicine, Biochemistry Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, 4200-450, Porto, Portugal. .,I3S - Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal. .,Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Teresa F Amaral
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.,UISPA-IDMEC, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Borges
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.,CINTESIS - Centre for Health Technology and Services Research, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, 4200-450, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alejandro Santos
- I3S - Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.,Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Padrão
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.,EPIUnit, Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Moreira
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.,EPIUnit, Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal.,The Research Centre in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido Costa, 91, 4200-450, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Afonso
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Negrão
- Department of Biomedicine, Biochemistry Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, 4200-450, Porto, Portugal.,I3S - Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
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Kenny GP, Groeller H, McGinn R, Flouris AD. Age, human performance, and physical employment standards. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2016; 41:S92-S107. [DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2015-0483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The proportion of older workers has increased substantially in recent years, with over 25% of the Canadian labour force aged ≥55 years. Along with chronological age comes age-related declines in functional capacity associated with impairments to the cardiorespiratory and muscular systems. As a result, older workers are reported to exhibit reductions in work output and in the ability to perform and/or sustain the required effort when performing work tasks. However, research has presented some conflicting views on the consequences of aging in the workforce, as physically demanding occupations can be associated with improved or maintained physical function. Furthermore, the current methods for evaluating physical function in older workers often lack specificity and relevance to the actual work tasks, leading to an underestimation of physical capacity in the older worker. Nevertheless, industry often lacks the appropriate information and/or tools to accommodate the aging workforce, particularly in the context of physical employment standards. Ultimately, if appropriate workplace strategies and work performance standards are adopted to optimize the strengths and protect against the vulnerability of the aging workers, they can perform as effectively as their younger counterparts. Our aim in this review is to evaluate the impact of different individual (including physiological decline, chronic disease, lifestyle, and physical activity) and occupational (including shift work, sleep deprivation, and cold/heat exposure) factors on the physical decline of older workers, and therefore the risk of work-related injuries or illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glen P. Kenny
- Human Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Herbert Groeller
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Ryan McGinn
- Human Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- Human Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
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Garza JL, Dugan AG, Faghri PD, Gorin AA, Huedo-Medina TB, Kenny AM, Cherniack MG, Cavallari JM. Demographic, health-related, and work-related factors associated with body mass index and body fat percentage among workers at six Connecticut manufacturing companies across different age groups: a cohort study. BMC OBESITY 2015; 2:43. [PMID: 26509040 PMCID: PMC4617478 DOI: 10.1186/s40608-015-0073-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effective workplace interventions that consider the multifactorial nature of obesity are needed to reduce and prevent obesity among adults. Furthermore, the factors associated with obesity may differ for workers across age groups. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify demographic, health-related, and work-related factors associated with baseline and changes in body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage (BFP) and among Connecticut manufacturing workers acrossage groups. METHODS BMI and BFPof 758 workers from six Connecticut manufacturing companies were objectively measuredat two time points approximately 36 months apart. Demographic, health-related, and work-related factors wereassessed via questionnaire. All variables were included in linear regression models to identify factors associated with baseline and changes in BMI and BFP for workers in 3 age groups: <45 years (35 %), 45-55 years (37 %), >55 years (28 %). RESULTS There were differences in baseline and changes in BMI and BFP among manufacturing workers across age groups. Being interested in changing weight was significantly (p < 0.01) associated with higher baseline BMI and BFP across all age categories. Other factors associated with higher baseline BMI and BFP differed by age group and included: male gender (BMI p = 0.04), female gender (BFP p < 0.01), not having a college education (BMI p = 0.01, BFP p = 0.04), having childcare responsibilities (BMI p = 0.04), and working less overtime (p = 0.02) among workers in the <45 year age category, male gender (BMI p = 0.02), female gender (BFP p < 0.01) and reporting higher stress in general (BMI p = 0.04) among workers in the 45-55 year age category, and female gender (BFP p < 0.01) and job tenure (BFP p = 0.03) among workers in the >55 year age category. Few factors were associated with change in BMI or BFP across any age category. CONCLUSIONS Among manufacturing workers, we identified associations between individual, health-related, and work-related factors and baseline BMIand BFP that differed by age. Such results support the use of strategies tailored to the challenges faced by workers in specific age groups rather than adopting a one size fits all approach. Effective interventions should consider a full range of individual, health-related, and work-related factors. More work must be done to identify factors or strategies associated with changes in obesity over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Garza
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Alicia G Dugan
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Pouran D Faghri
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, 358 Mansfield Road, Unit 1101, Storrs, CT 06269 USA
| | - Amy A Gorin
- Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, 2006 Hillside Road, Unit 1248, Storrs, CT 06269 USA
| | - Tania B Huedo-Medina
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, 358 Mansfield Road, Unit 1101, Storrs, CT 06269 USA ; Department of Statistics, UConn Health, 263 Mansfield Road, Unit 1101, Storrs, CT 06269 USA ; Department of Community Medicine and Health Care, UConn Health, 263 Mansfield Road, Unit 1101, Storrs, CT 06269 USA
| | - Anne M Kenny
- Geriatric Medicine, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Martin G Cherniack
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Jennifer M Cavallari
- Department of Community Medicine, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
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13
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Kojima N, Kim M, Saito K, Yoshida H, Yoshida Y, Hirano H, Obuchi S, Shimada H, Suzuki T, Kim H. Lifestyle-Related Factors Contributing to Decline in Knee Extension Strength among Elderly Women: A Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Cohort Study. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0132523. [PMID: 26177292 PMCID: PMC4503692 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0132523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional and 4-year longitudinal cohort study aimed to clarify how various lifestyle-related variables affect knee extension strength in elderly Japanese women. The participants were community-dwelling women (n = 575) living in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan aged 75-85 years at baseline (in 2008) who returned for a follow-up examination 4 years later (in 2012). Maximum isometric knee extension strength in the dominant leg was measured during comprehensive medical check-ups at baseline and follow-up. Interviews with participants included questions on their history of 11 diseases and lifestyle-related factors such as physical activity as well as dietary, smoking, and drinking habits. Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses yielded inconsistent results regarding the associations between lifestyle-related factors and knee extension strength. While going out more frequently and regular physical exercise positively affected baseline knee extension strength, they did not affect knee extension strength in the longitudinal analysis. The longitudinal analysis revealed that more frequent intake of soy products or green and yellow vegetables at baseline decreased age-related knee extension strength decline. The inconsistent results from the cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses indicate that conducting both types of analyses is crucial for researching this type of subject. The present study demonstrates that the age-related decline in muscle strength is lower in those who frequently eat soy products or green and yellow vegetables. Thus, recommending higher intake of soy products, and green and yellow vegetables for the elderly might help maintain their muscle health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narumi Kojima
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Miji Kim
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kyoko Saito
- Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hideyo Yoshida
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Yoshida
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirohiko Hirano
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuichi Obuchi
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Shimada
- Research Institute, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, 35 Gengo, Morioka-machi, Obu-shi, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takao Suzuki
- Research Institute, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, 35 Gengo, Morioka-machi, Obu-shi, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hunkyung Kim
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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14
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Thompson BJ, Ryan ED, Sobolewski EJ, Smith-Ryan AE. Dietary protein intake is associated with maximal and explosive strength of the leg flexors in young and older blue collar workers. Nutr Res 2015; 35:280-6. [PMID: 25753919 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2015.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Revised: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the association between dietary protein (PRO) intake and maximal and rapid strength of the leg flexors in blue collar (BC) working men. Twenty-four young (age, 23.2 ± 2.1 years) and 19 older (age, 52.8 ± 5.2 years) men employed in BC occupations completed a 3-day dietary record and isometric strength testing of the leg flexors. Food logs were analyzed for total PRO (TPRO) and essential amino acid (EAA) intake. Rapid and maximal strength capacities were examined from the rate of torque development at 50 milliseconds and peak torque of the torque-time curves, respectively. Pearson correlations and partial correlations were used to examine the relationships between TPRO and EAA intake on strength variables. Peak torque was positively correlated to TPRO and EAA intake in the young (r = 0.439 and r = 0.431; P < .05) and older (r = 0.636 and r = 0.605; P < .01) men, and rate of torque development at 50 milliseconds was correlated to TPRO and EAA intake in the young (r = 0.512 and r = 0.310; P = .01) and older (r = 0.662 and r = 0.665; P < .01) men, respectively. There were no relationships (P > .05) between TPRO and strength variables when controlling for EAA intake. Total PRO intake explained 20 to 44% of the variance in rapid and maximal strength for both age groups. Essential amino acid intake was largely responsible for the positive relationship between PRO intake and strength. Across young and older BC working male populations, PRO consumption was associated with both maximal and explosive strength capacities of the leg flexors muscle group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brennan J Thompson
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise and Sport Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Eric D Ryan
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC USA.
| | - Eric J Sobolewski
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise and Sport Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Abbie E Smith-Ryan
- Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC USA; Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
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