Effect of Brisk Walking on Health-Related Physical Fitness Balance and Life Satisfaction Among the Elderly: A Systematic Review

Usual walking Pace and risk of 28 cancers- results from the UK biobank

BACKGROUND

Usual walking pace represents a practical indicator of overall health. However, its association with cancer development remains unexplored. We investigated the relation between self-reported walking pace and cancer risk.

METHODS

Using baseline UK Biobank data from 2006 to 2010, excluding the first two years of follow-up to reduce reverse causation, we employed multivariable Cox regression to assess the association between walking pace (slow, steady average, brisk) and risk of 28 cancer types, accounting for overall physical activity and walking volume.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 10.9 years (interquartile range 10.1-11.8), 8.3% of 334,924 participants received a cancer diagnosis. Brisk compared to slow walking pace was associated with multivariable-adjusted lower risks of five cancers, including anal (hazard ratio 0.30; 95% confidence interval: 0.14-0.63), hepatocellular carcinoma (0.39; 0.23-0.66), small intestine (0.46; 0.24-0.87), thyroid (0.50; 0.29-0.86), and lung cancer (0.60; 0.51-0.70). Our findings were consistent across various sensitivity analyses, which assessed sex and age differences, residual confounding, and reverse causation.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-reported walking pace was inversely associated with risk of five cancer types, even when accounting for overall physical activity and walking volume. Adopting a brisk walking pace may represent a pragmatic target for public health interventions to decrease cancer risk, particularly in circumstances where increases in walking volume or frequency prove impractical.

Comparative analysis of combined exercise programs in middle-aged obese males: impact on energy expenditure, body composition, and metabolic rate

Introduction

This study compares energy expenditure, body composition, and metabolic rate between serial (SCG) and integrated (ICG) combined training in untrained middle-aged obese males. Method: Twenty untrained obese males (age: 50 ± 3 years) were randomly assigned to a SCG (n = 10) or an ICG (n = 10). Both groups completed a 3-month training program (3 sessions/week) consisting of walking and bodyweight exercises, differing only in the sequence of aerobic and strength training. In SCG, strength training was performed before aerobic training, while in ICG, aerobic and strength exercises alternated in a predetermined order.

Results

After a 3-month training period, both groups significantly improved all health indices compared to pre-training values (p < 0.005, g = 0.40-2.71), indicating small to large effects. Specifically, there were moderate reductions in body fat percentage, small decreases in body circumferences, and moderate-to-large reductions in arterial blood pressure and resting heart rate. Additionally, respiratory function showed a large improvement. No significant differences were observed between SCG and ICG in energy expenditure, resting metabolic rate, total daily energy expenditure, macronutrient composition, or health indices after the intervention (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

In conclusion, both SCG and ICG are effective strategies for improving metabolic health, respiratory function, and body composition in middle-aged obese males. These findings highlight the flexibility of combined training approaches in promoting overall health and fitness in this population and suggest that both combined training programs can be implemented in structured exercise programs to promote cardiometabolic health in middle-aged adults.

Effect of 12-week fitness walking programme on sex hormone levels and risk factors for metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women: A pilot study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Postmenopausal women are at a heightened risk of developing metabolic syndrome and therefore require targeted interventions. This study investigated the effects of a 12-week fitness walking (FW) programme on risk factors for metabolic syndrome and sex hormone levels in postmenopausal women. Our study hypothesised that FW would reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome in this population, with correlated changes in sex hormone levels.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to FW (n = 15, age: 60.87 ± 5.73 years, body mass index (BMI): 23.58 ± 2.88 kg m-2) or control (CON) groups (n = 15, age: 60.40 ± 3.79 years, BMI: 24.97 ± 3.07 kg m-2). The FW group engaged in a 12-week FW programme (60 min/session, five times/week, 50%-60 % VO2max, aerobic training). The CON group maintained their usual lifestyle. After the intervention, the FW group exhibited decreased levels of triglycerides (TG), fasting blood glucose (FBG), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP, P = 0.009) and waist circumference (WC), and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, P = 0.001). The CON group demonstrated increased TG (P = 0.001), FBG, SBP, DBP and WC, and decreased HDL-C. Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) was negatively correlated with TG and SBP in the CON group pre- and post-intervention. Among all participants, there was a significant negative correlation between SHBG and TG, BMI, and WC pre-intervention; only TG remained significantly correlated with SHBG post-intervention.

CONCLUSION

A 12-week FW training programme effectively controlled metabolic syndrome risk factors in postmenopausal women, and a significant relationship between metabolic syndrome risk factors and sex hormone levels was observed.

Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Life Satisfaction in Older Adults: The Moderating Effect of Dementia Diagnosis

This study investigated the relationship between different intensities of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) (i.e., vigorous LTPA vs. leisure walking) and life satisfaction, and the moderating effect of dementia diagnosis on this association in a representative sample of U.S. older adults derived from the 2022 National Health Interview Survey (n = 8,779). Multivariable regression analysis revealed significant associations between both LTPA intensity and life satisfaction. Moderation analysis revealed that dementia diagnosis significantly influenced the relationship between vigorous LTPA and life satisfaction in older adults, while no significant dementia diagnosis moderating effect was found to affect the relationship between leisure walking and life satisfaction. These findings suggest that vigorous LTPA was particularly beneficial for enhancing the life satisfaction of people living with dementia (PLWD), while leisure walking universally enhances life satisfaction in older adults regardless of their dementia status. Practical suggestions and implications are provided for designing LTPA programs tailored to the specific needs of PLWD.

Increased walking pace reduces the rate of erectile dysfunction: results from a multivariable Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Previous observational studies have identified a potential association between walking and the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED); however, the causal relationship between them remains unclear.

AIM

This study aims to explore the causal relationship between walking and ED using Mendelian randomization (MR).

METHODS

MR analysis was conducted using genome-wide association study (GWAS) data related to walking pace. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the primary MR analysis method. To supplement the IVW results, two additional MR methods were used: MR-Egger and weighted median (WM). Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess heterogeneity and pleiotropy. Furthermore, multivariable MR (MVMR) analysis was employed to evaluate the causal relationship after adjusting for potential confounding factors.

OUTCOMES

The moderating effects of different walking phenotypes on ED.

RESULTS

According to the IVW method, genetically predicted walking pace was found to have a reverse causal relationship with the risk of ED (OR: 0.24; 95% CI: 0.12-0.51). Similar causal effects were observed using the other two MR methods, with statistical significance found in the WM method and validation through sensitivity analyses. Furthermore, MVMR analysis confirmed that the protective effect of increased walking pace on reducing the risk of ED remained significant even after adjusting for potential confounders.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Encouraging men to engage in brisk walking could be an effective strategy for reducing the incidence of ED.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

This study utilized large-scale GWAS summary data on walking and ED and employed a two-sample, multivariable MR design to minimize confounding factors and reverse causation, enabling the derivation of credible causal effects. It is essential to obtain GWAS data from other populations and replicate this MR analysis to validate the results, as well as conduct further research to explore the underlying mechanisms.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest that there is an inverse causal relationship between walking pace and ED risk, and brisk walking may be an independent protective factor against ED.

Effects of functional training on physical and technical performance among the athletic population: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

BACKGROUND

The evidence indicates that functional training is beneficial for athletes' physical and technical performance. However, a systematic review of the effects of functional training on athletes' physical and technical performance is lacking. Therefore, this study uses a literature synthesis approach to evaluate the impact of functional training on the physical and technical performance of the athletic population and to extend and deepen the existing body of knowledge.

METHODS

This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, and the researchers performed a systematic search of five international electronic databases using the predefined terms "functional training" and "athletes" on 15th November 2023: Web of Science, CINAHL PLUS, PubMed, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus. A PICOS approach was used to identify the following inclusion criteria: (1) athletes, (2) a functional training program, (3) an active control group, (4) a measure of physical and/or technical performance, and (5) randomized controlled studies. A methodological quality assessment of the original research was conducted using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (Pedro) scale. The review was performed using the PRIMSA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42022347943).

RESULTS

Of the 1059 potentially eligible studies identified, 28 studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies included were conducted on 819 athletes from 12 different countries and were published between 2011 and 2023. The assessment was performed on the Pedro scale, and the mean Pedro score for the included studies was 5.57 (moderate quality, ranging from 4 to 10). The eligibility study reported on 14 different types of sports, with 22 studies focusing on physical performance and 11 studies focusing on technical performance. These studies have shown that functional training can significantly improve the physical and technical performance of athlete populations, but in some studies, no significant difference in the data was observed between groups.

CONCLUSION

Functional training is an effective training method for enhancing the physical and technical performance of athlete populations. However, no significant difference in the data was observed between the functional training groups and the regular training group, which may be due to the duration of the training program, the different training experiences of the athletes, and the different focuses of the training regimens. Therefore, future studies should focus on the physical and technical performance of different sports groups with different types and durations of functional training programs to expand the current evidence base.

Assessing Physical Therapists' Outdoor Walking Recommendations and Neighborhood Walkability for Older Adults

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Neighborhood walkability is the extent to which built and social environments support walking. Walkability influences older adults' participation in outdoor physical activity. Identifying factors that influence physical therapists' (PTs) decisions about prescribing outdoor walking is needed, especially for those who are aging in place. The purpose of this study is to describe the neighborhood walkability knowledge, perceptions, and assessment practices of PTs who work with community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was sent via email to 5,000 PTs nationwide. The 40-item survey assessed walking prescriptions, walkability perceptions and assessments, and gathered demographic data. Categorical variables were compared using Chi-square analyses.

RESULTS

Using a total of 122 PTs who worked in outpatient geriatric physical therapy settings, a significant difference was found between perceptions of whether PTs should assess walkability and whether they actually assess walkability (χ2 = 78.7, p < .001). Decisions to prescribe outdoor walking were influenced by the availability (n = 79, 64.8%) and maintenance (n = 11, 9.0%) of sidewalks, crime (n = 9, 7.4%), terrain (n = 7, 5.7%), and aesthetics (n = 6, 4.9%). Objective walkability measures were not used by the respondents.

CONCLUSION

When considering the assessment of walkability, PTs prioritize the built environment over the social environment. Although most believe it is the responsibility of the PT to assess walkability, most do not. Significance/Implications: Assessment of walkability may allow PTs to identify barriers and make more informed recommendations concerning outdoor walking for older adults. Objective measures are available for PTs when prescribing outdoor walking.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Association Between Physical Capability, Social Support, Loneliness, Depression, Anxiety, and Life Satisfaction in Older Adults

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Physical capability, social support, loneliness, depression, and anxiety predict life satisfaction in older adults. Currently, no systematic review and meta-analysis have been conducted to investigate the strength of these associations globally. Therefore, this study quantified the strength of these associations.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, APA PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus. We included observational studies assessing the association between physical capability, social support, loneliness, depression, and anxiety with life satisfaction in adults aged 65+.

RESULTS

In total, 10,552 articles were identified, of which 78 studies in 164,478 participants were included in the systematic review and 57 were included in the meta-analysis. Greater life satisfaction was significantly associated with greater physical capabilities (odds ratio [OR] = 2.64; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.01-3.45; p < .001, k = 35, n = 33,732), higher social support (OR = 3.27; 95% CI: 2.59-4.13, k = 20 studies, n = 13,228), reduced loneliness (OR = 3.30; 95% CI: 2.53-4.30, k = 11, n = 33,638), depression (OR = 4.76; 95% CI: 3.10-7.32, k = 24, n = 64,097), and anxiety (OR = 5.10; 95% CI: 2.21-11.78, k = 5, n = 43,368). The strength of associations did not vary between Western and Eastern countries, year of publication, or quality. Gender was a moderator: Loneliness was more strongly associated with life satisfaction in females. Age was also a moderator; the association between social support and life satisfaction weakened with increasing age.

DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Improving the physical capabilities of older individuals, fostering social support, and alleviating feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety may help build life satisfaction in older individuals, which policy-makers and healthcare professionals should prioritize when implementing strategies.

Assessment of Paraoxonase 1 and Arylesterase Activities and Lipid Profile in Bodybuilders: A Comparative Study of Physical Activity and Anthropometry on Atherosclerosis

Background and Objectives: Atherosclerosis, driven by dyslipidaemia and oxidative stress, is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This study evaluates the effects of vigorous-intensity bodybuilding exercise (VIBBE) on atherosclerosis biomarkers-including paraoxonase-1 (PON1) and arylesterase (ARE) activities-and lipid profiles in male bodybuilders who do not use anabolic-androgenic steroids. Comparisons were made with individuals engaged in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (MIAE), as well as overweight/obese sedentary (OOS) and normal-weight sedentary (NWS) individuals. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 122 healthy male participants aged 18-45 years, divided into four groups: VIBBE (n = 31), OOS (n = 30), MIAE (n = 32), and NWS (n = 29). Anthropometric assessments were performed, and fasting blood samples were collected for biochemical analyses, including lipid profiles and PON1 and ARE activities. Statistical analyses compared the groups and evaluated correlations between adiposity measures and atherosclerosis biomarkers. Results: The VIBBE group exhibited significantly lower levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and logarithm of the TG to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio [log(TG/HDL-C)] compared to the OOS group (p < 0.05 for all), indicating improved lipid profiles. However, these improvements were not significant when compared to the NWS group (p > 0.05), suggesting that VIBBE may not provide additional lipid profile benefits beyond those associated with normal weight status. PON1 and ARE activities were significantly lower in the VIBBE group compared to the MIAE group (p < 0.05 for both), suggesting that VIBBE may not effectively enhance antioxidant defences. Correlation analyses revealed significant inverse relationships between PON1 and ARE activities and adiposity measures, including body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), body fat percentage (BFP), fat mass index (FMI), and obesity degree (OD) (p < 0.05 for all). Positive correlations were observed between oxLDL and log(TG/HDL-C) and adiposity measures (p < 0.05 for all). Conclusions: Vigorous-intensity bodybuilding exercise improves certain lipid parameters compared to sedentary obese individuals but does not significantly enhance antioxidant enzyme activities or further improve lipid profiles beyond those observed in normal-weight sedentary men. Conversely, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise significantly enhances PON1 and ARE activities and improves lipid profiles, offering superior cardiovascular benefits. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating moderate-intensity aerobic exercise into physical activity guidelines to optimize cardiovascular health by balancing improvements in lipid metabolism with enhanced antioxidant defences.

Physical activity and nutrient intake levels according to grip strength among single-household elderly in Korea: data from 2014 and 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES)

PURPOSE

We analyzed the differences in physical activity (PA) levels and nutrient intake based on grip strength among elderly men and women in single-person households (ESH) in Korea.

METHODS

Data were obtained from 1,581 ESH individuals (aged ≥65 years) from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2014-2019). PA levels (occupational and recreational moderate-intensity activities, travel to and from places, walking, and strength training) and nutrient intake (including, total energy, carbohydrates, protein, and fat) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Men exhibited no differences in PA related to grip strength, except for the number of strength training days (p=0.000). Women with higher grip strength engaged more in recreational activities, travel, and strength training (all, p=0.000). Men with higher grip strength consumed more protein, while women consumed greater amounts of total fat (p=0.030), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) (p=0.024), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (p=0.011). Both sexes had increased Vitamin C intake (men: p=0.023, women: p=0.020).

CONCLUSION

Sex-related differences in PA levels and nutrient intake based on grip strength were observed among older individuals in ESH. Women require programs to enhance diverse PA and balance fat intake, while men need interventions focused on strength training and protein intake.

Motivational Barriers and Facilitators for Older Adults' Engagement in Exercise during Depressive Episodes: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

This study aims to assess the motivational factors influencing the participation of older adults in various exercise interventions during depressive episodes and to identify which types of exercise are most effective in alleviating depressive symptoms in this population. Therefore, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on exercise interventions and their impact on depression in older adult patients, identified by the terms "exercise" AND "depression" AND "elderly" OR "geriatric", were selected from primary electronic databases to conduct this network meta-analysis (NMA). The primary outcome was the effect on depressive symptoms, while the secondary outcome was the comparison of dropout rates between the intervention groups and the usual care control groups, as a measure of sustained motivation and engagement. Standardized mean difference (SMD) values and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed for effect evaluation. This study protocol has been registered in IPLASY (INPLASY 202460035). The results of 31 RCTs with 3238 participants indicated that qigong (SMD -1.17, -2.28 to -0.06), Otago Exercise (SMD -1.15, -2.29 to -0.01), and yoga (SMD -0.88, -1.55 to -0.21) significantly alleviate depressive symptoms in older adults. Walking (SMD -0.82, -1.34 to -0.31) and strength training (SMD -0.67, -1.05 to -0.30) also showed significant effects. Aerobic, physical training, and tai chi had moderate effects, while multisport showed a weaker impact with no significant improvement. In summary, our research findings demonstrate that exercise can effectively alleviate depressive symptoms in older adults, with low dropout rates likely due to interconnected physiological, psychological, and social mechanisms. This is crucial for enhancing treatment strategies for older adults' depression.

Cardiovascular response to brisk walking on different surfaces in an innovative senior playground: a randomized trial in older adults

Brisk walking is a simple exercise for older adults. We aimed to assess the cardiovascular response to a short bout of brisk walking on walking loops in an innovative senior playground in Thailand. Twenty older adults were randomly assigned to brisk walking on artificial turf (AT group, n = 10) or an uneven surface (US group, n = 10). We assessed cardiovascular parameters, average walking speed, and rate of perceived exertion. Blood pressure, heart rate, rate-pressure product, and rate perceived exertion were significantly increased, while the mean RR interval of heart rate variability was significantly decreased in both AT and US groups after exercise compared with pre-exercise (p < 0.05). A greater change in systolic blood pressure was observed in the US group than in the AT group (p < 0.05). These data indicated that brisk walking on AT and US increases cardiovascular response. Our findings provide information on planning exercise programs for older adults.

Effects of brisk walking with or without music on body composition, standing balance, cardiovascular parameters, and salivary biomarkers in older women

This study aimed to assess and compare changes in body composition, standing balance, cardiovascular parameters, and salivary biomarkers, particularly salivary antioxidant status, after brisk walking training with or without music in older women. Twenty-four subjects were randomly assigned to brisk walking groups: with music (BWM) (n=12) or without music (BW) (n=12). Eighteen subjects completed the exercise training (9 in each group), and their data were used for analysis. The research protocols were classified into three phases: pretraining phase, training phase, and posttraining phase, while the data collection was divided into four sessions: resting condition, during treadmill exercise testing, immediately posttreadmill exercise testing, and 5-min posttreadmill exercise testing defined as after the cool-down session. The results showed that 8 weeks of home-based brisk walking with or without music did not improve standing balance, blood pressure, salivary biomarkers including total protein concentration, and antioxidant status but maintained or prevented the decline of these parameters. Only the BWM group reduced fat mass relative to increasing fat-free mass (P<0.05) and improved recovery heart rate (P<0.05) by modifying cardiac autonomic control in posttreadmill exercise testing. Therefore, brisk walking with preferred music can be a tool to delay the progression of cardiovascular dysfunction in older women. A longer duration of the exercise program and larger groups of participants are needed for further investigation of brisk walking with or without music on physiological and biochemical changes.

Dose-response relationship between weekly physical activity level and the frequency of colds in Chinese middle-aged and elderly individuals

Background

Engaging in appropriate physical activity can significantly lower the risk of various diseases among middle-aged and older adults. Investigating optimal levels of physical activity (PA) is crucial for enhancing the health of this demographic. This study aims to explore the dose-response relationship between weekly PA levels and the frequency of colds among Chinese middle-aged and elderly individuals, identifying the necessary PA level to effectively diminish the risk of colds.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study using a web-based survey targeting individuals aged 40 and older (n = 1, 683) in China. The survey collected information on PA and the frequency of colds. Data was analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis test and the χ2 test. We explored the dose-response relationship between weekly PA and cold frequency over the past year through an ordered multivariate logistic regression model and a restricted cubic spline model.

Results

(1) Brisk walking emerged as the preferred physical exercise for those over 40. The findings suggest that engaging in moderate (odds ratio (OR) = 0.64, P < 0.001, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.50-0.81]) and high (OR = 0.64, P < 0.001, 95% CI [0.51-0.79]) levels of PA weekly significantly reduces the risk of catching a cold. Individuals with one (OR = 1.47, P < 0.001, 95% CI [1.20-1.80]) or multiple chronic diseases (OR = 1.56, P < 0.001, 95% CI [1.21-2.00]) were at increased risk. Those residing in central (OR = 1.64, P < 0.001, 95% CI [1.33-02.01]) and western China (OR = 1.49, P = 0.008, 95% CI [1.11-02.00]) faced a higher risk compared to their counterparts in eastern China. (2) According to the restricted cubic spline model, adults who experienced one cold in the past year had a weekly PA level of 537.29 metabolic equivalent-minutes per week (MET-min/wk) with an OR value of 1. For those reporting two or more colds, the PA level was 537.76 MET-min/wk with an OR of 1.

Conclusions

(1) Brisk walking is the most favored exercise among the Chinese middle-aged and elderly, with the prevalence of colds being affected by the number of chronic diseases and the geographic location. (2) Regular, moderate exercise is linked to a lower risk of colds. To effectively reduce cold frequency, it is recommended that middle-aged and elderly Chinese individuals engage in a minimum of 538 MET-min/wk of exercise.

Patterns of sedentary behavior among older women with urinary incontinence and urinary symptoms: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Independent of physical activity, sedentary behavior has emerged as a significant risk factor for health. Particularly, older adults spent as high as 13 h daily on sedentary activities, which account for 98% of their awake times. Although there is growing evidence revealing the potential association between sedentary behavior and urinary incontinence (UI) across populations of different ages, the relationship between sedentary behavior and urinary symptoms in older women, who are twice as likely to have UI than older men, has not been reviewed. This scoping review aimed to synthesize available evidence of the relationship between sedentary behavior and urinary symptoms in noninstitutionalized older women.

METHODS

Six electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, Ovid Nursing Database, EMBASE, and MEDLINE) were searched from their inception to April 2023. Observational and experimental studies that measured sedentary behavior using objective and/or self-reported methods in older women aged 60 + years having any type of UI, with English full texts available, were included. Relevant data, including sedentary patterns (types, definitions, measurements, and daily patterns) and UI types were tabulated. A narrative synthesis of the findings was also conducted.

RESULTS

A total of seven studies (n = 1,822) were included for review and reporting. Objective measurement showed that older women with UI were engaged in > 8 h sedentary activities daily (493.3-509.4 min/day), which accounted for 73% of their awake times. The duration of self-reported sedentary behavior was lower than the time measured objectively, and the average weekday sitting time was 300-380 min/day. With or without adjustment for confounding factors (e.g., age and number of vaginal deliveries), the daily proportion of sedentary time and average duration of sedentary bouts were positively associated with the prevalence of urgency UI. Notably, sedentary patients with UI were more likely to have lower urinary tract symptoms, including bothersome incontinence, to use incontinence products, and to have nocturia episodes, than their age-matched counterparts who were less sedentary.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest a potential relationship between sedentary behavior and UI in older women, but the causality of the relationship remains unclear. To further inform the clinical role of sedentary behavior in the context of UI, a greater number of rigorous studies with a prospective study design is urgently needed.

Effectiveness of a Sustainable Training Program Combining Supervised Outdoor Exercise with Telecoaching on Physical Performance in Elderly People

The decrease in functional abilities can negatively influence quality of life and autonomy in elderly people, and physical exercise plays a crucial role regardless of the type. Among the latter, also due to the COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor exercise and telecoaching are settings that have been widely implemented. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a sustainable training program combining supervised outdoor exercise with telecoaching on physical performance in elderly people. A total of 60 participants were recruited and divided into two groups: a trained group (TG) and an untrained group (UG), based on their participation in an 8-week sustainable training program consisted of five sessions/week, which included two sessions/week of supervised outdoor exercise and three sessions/week of telecoaching. Participants were evaluated before and at the end of the training program using the handgrip test, Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, short physical performance battery (SPPB), and Tinetti scale. In the TG, we found a significant improvement in the following tests: right handgrip (p < 0.001); left handgrip (p < 0.001); TUG (p < 0.001); SPPB (p = 0.01); and Tinetti scale (p = 0.006). A detailed analysis of the SPPB and Tinetti scale showed the lack of significant changes in walking ability: gait speed (p > 0.05) and walking parameters in the Tinetti scale (p > 0.05). Based on our results, we suggest that a sustainable training program combining supervised outdoor exercise with telecoaching could be effective in the elderly population for improving balance capacity and strength.

The Positive Association between Melatonin-Containing Food Consumption and Older Adult Life Satisfaction, Psychoemotional State, and Cognitive Function

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that melatonin-containing food (FMT) consumption is associated with a better sleep schedule and cognitive and psychoemotional state in older adults. A cross-sectional study of 557 (79% females) older adults living in the community with a mean age of 68.9 ± 7.7, ranging from 50 to 90 years, was conducted. The study, conducted in May and September 2023 using a face-to-face interview, collected personal data and assessed FMT intake during the day (FMTday) and for dinner (FMTdinner), life satisfaction, positive and negative affect, depression severity, cognitive functions, and sleep characteristics. Multiple regression and logistic regression analysis, adjusted for co-factors, were used to assess the association between the studied indicators. Multiple regression analysis showed that older adults with higher FMT consumption are more satisfied with life (FMTdinner: β = 0.107; ∆R2 = 0.011; p = 0.020), have a lower level of depression (FMTday: β = -0.124; ∆R2 = 0.015; p = 0.003), and higher scores in positive affect (FMTday: β = 0.169; ∆R2 = 0.016; p = 0.007; FMTdinner: β = 0.136; ∆R2 = 0.019; p = 0.003). Logistic regression analysis showed that older adults with higher FMT consumption are less likely to have depression (FMTday: OR, 0.614; 95% CI, 0.436-0.864; p = 0.005; FMTdinner: OR, 0.671; 95% CI, 0.476-0.945; p = 0.023), and they perform better on logical thinking tests (FMTday: OR, 2.066; 95% CI, 1.131-2.204; p = 0.013; FMTdinner: OR, 1.887; 95% CI, 1.183-2.138; p = 0.033). A greater life satisfaction as well as a decrease in the cognitive impairment and psychoemotional state of older adults is associated with a higher consumption of melatonin-containing foods.

Does Walking Have an Association with Osteoarthritis? A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Analysis

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the major disabling human diseases. The related studies indicate a potential correlation between walking and OA. However, there is still a lack of evidence in genetics to support the correlation between walking and OA. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the relationship between walking and OA at the genetic level.

Methods

The publicly available Genome Wide Association Study (GWAS) data were used, with inverse variance weighting (IVW, the random-effects model) as the main analysis method, whereas MR-Egger, Weighted median, Simple mode, and Weighted mode as the secondary analysis methods. In addition, Cochran's Q test, pleiotropy test, and MR-Egger intercept test were conducted to examine the heterogeneity and pleiotropy of the outcome.

Results

In the MR analysis, IVW results showed a negative correlation between types of physical activity in last 4 weeks: Walking for pleasure (not as a means of transport) and OA (KOA or HOA) (odds ratio (OR) = 0.3224, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.1261 to 0.8243), and the difference was of statistical significance (P = 0.0181). Moreover, IVW results also revealed a negative correlation between types of physical activity in last 4 weeks: Walking for pleasure (not as a means of transport) and KOA (OR = 0.1396, 95% CI: 0.0484 to 0.4026), and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.0003). However, IVW results did not demonstrate any statistical significance types of physical activity in last 4 weeks: Walking for pleasure (not as a means of transport) and HOA (OR = 1.2075, 95% CI: 0.1978 to 7.3727, P = 0.8381).

Conclusion

From genetic studies, types of physical activity in last 4 weeks: Walking for pleasure (not as a means of transport) is negatively correlated with knee osteoarthritis (KOA), but there is no clear evidence supporting its correlation with hip osteoarthritis (HOA).

Associations of the neighbourhood built and natural environment with cardiometabolic health indicators: A cross-sectional analysis of environmental moderators and behavioural mediators

BACKGROUND

Most studies examining the effects of neighbourhood urban design on cardiometabolic health focused solely on the built or natural environment. Also, they did not consider the roles of neighbourhood socio-economic status (SES) and ambient air pollution in the observed associations, and the extent to which these associations were mediated by physical activity and sedentary behaviours.

METHODS

We used data from the AusDiab3 study (N = 4141), a national cohort study of Australian adults to address the above-mentioned knowledge gaps. Spatial data were used to compute indices of neighbourhood walkability (population density, intersection density, non-commercial land use mix, commercial land use), natural environment (parkland and blue spaces) and air pollution (annual average concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter <2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5)). Census indices were used to define neighbourhood SES. Clinical assessments collected data on adiposity, blood pressure, blood glucose and blood lipids. Generalised additive mixed models were used to estimate associations.

RESULTS

Neighbourhood walkability showed indirect beneficial associations with most indicators of cardiometabolic health via resistance training, walking and sitting for different purposes; indirect detrimental associations with the same indicators via vigorous gardening; and direct detrimental associations with blood pressure. The neighbourhood natural environment had beneficial indirect associations with most cardiometabolic health indicators via resistance training and leisure-time sitting, and beneficial direct associations with adiposity and blood lipids. Neighbourhood SES and air pollution moderated only a few associations of the neighbourhood environment with physical activity, blood lipids and blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

Within a low-density and low-pollution context, denser, walkable neighbourhoods with good access to nature may benefit residents' cardiometabolic health by facilitating the adoption of an active lifestyle. Possible disadvantages of living in denser neighbourhoods for older populations are having limited opportunities for gardening, higher levels of noise and less healthy dietary patterns associated with eating out.

Efficacy of Preoperative Physiotherapy Protocols in a 30-Year-Old Patient With Bilateral Osteoarthritis of Hip Secondary to Avascular Necrosis

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip is a rare condition that occurs in adults can be a result of avascular necrosis or a history of steroids that can wear away the articulating cartilage of the hip joint causing friction, pain in the groin region, stiffness, and decreased functional mobility. We present a 30-year-old adult who came with chief complaints of pain in the groin region, stiffness, difficulty in walking, and experiencing pain while walking, which had reduced his activity of daily living. The investigation was done, and the patient was diagnosed with bilateral hip OA secondary to avascular necrosis. To reduce morbidity, preoperative physiotherapy management for eight weeks was planned and started before the operation. The purpose was to educate the patient about the condition, reduce pain, increase the ranges of the hip, improve strength, and provide gait re-education. We added basic proprioception training and plyometric exercises for the hip to improve strength and balance. At the end of the session patient, positive results were achieved. The progress of proprioception or balance training can be improved by using single-leg balance as an outcome measure. Hence, our study aims to use exercise therapy to reduce or postpone the need for hip arthroscopy. However, future research should focus on plyometric exercises for the lower limbs or any abnormalities associated with the lower limbs. However, they should be carried out when some recovery is observed in patients.

Effects of Yi Jin Jing on juvenile cervical spondylopathy in China: A parallel, randomized, assessor-blinded clinical trial

Background

Cervical spondylopathy is a common musculo-articular disorder, multiple exercises are recommended. Chinese fitness exercises are prevalent and used to treat various diseases.

Aim

To explore the efficacy of Chinese fitness exercise Yi Jin Jing exercise in intervening the cervical spondylopathy in adolescents.

Patients and Methods

The study was conducted in 60 adolescent patients with cervical spondylopathy, with 30 patients in each group.

Methods

The study was conducted in 60 adolescent patients with cervical spondylopathy, with 30 patients in each group. The observation group was required to take Yi Jin Jing exercise, and the control group took the brisk walking exercise. The first week was the preparatory period for the patients, and then the participants were required to do exercises three times a week for at least 30 minutes in the later 3 weeks. Before and after treatment, Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores, pain visual analog scale (VAS) scores, and cervical curvature in both groups were observed, and the incidence of adverse events in both groups was recorded during the trial.

Results

The NDI and VAS scores in both groups statistically decreased after intervention and mildly increased at follow-up, while the reduction in scores of the Yi Jin Jing group was more significant. Cervical curvature in both groups improved on day 28 compared to day 0. There were no adverse reactions during the evaluation period.

Conclusion

The Chinese health-care qigong Yi Jin Jing exercise is more effective than brisk walking in improving the cervical range of motion and relieving pain in adolescents with cervical spondylopathy. Trial registration/Protocol registration: Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000030723).

Walking as an intervention to reduce blood pressure in adults with hypertension: recommendations and implications for clinical practise

Hypertension affects more than 1 in 4 adults, equating to around 1.39 billion people worldwide. Hypertension is defined as an elevation in systolic blood pressure above 140mmHg. This can increase cardiovascular and stroke risk. By lowering blood pressure, individuals can mitigate an increased risk of stroke and end-organ damage. While medications have proven beneficial to lowering blood pressure, they do have the potential for side effects. Other non-pharmacological lifestyle and dietary changes exist. This article critically appraises a systematic review which assesses whether walking can reduce blood pressure.

Effects of functional limitations and activities of daily living on the mortality of the older people: A cohort study in China

Introduction

Prevalence of functional limitations (FLs) and disabled activities of daily living (ADL) cause heavy burdens to the health of the older people. Stratified by gender, this study aimed to explore the effects of FL and ADL on the mortality of the older people in China, and the mechanism was then discussed.

Methods

We used survey data of a prospective 10-year cohort (2008-2018), from the China Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, and Independent variables included FL, basic ADL (BADL), and instrumental ADL (IADL). Covariates involved socio-demographic characteristics, health-related behaviors, and health status of the participants in the CLHLS project.

Results

There were 967 (19.20%) male and 2,235 (32.36%) female older people performed functional limitations, and their survival time was 60.98 (SE = 0.66) and 55.19 (SE = 0.55) months, respectively. Old adults with FL had significantly poorer survival than the ones without (Log-rank test, P < 0.001). Weibull regression suggested that FL (P < 0.001), abnormal BADL (P < 0.001) and IADL (P < 0.001) were negatively associated with the survival of the older people. Further analysis showed that BADL and IADL performed significantly mediating roles in the relation of FL and survival time in old adults; additionally, for female older people, BADL also exhibited a significant moderating role in the effect of FL on survival.

Conclusions

Prevalence of FL was serious among the older people in China, especially for the women. Disabilities of BADL and IADL and FL were negatively associated with the survival time of the older people in China. Regarding the effect of FL on survival, BADL and IADL performed significantly mediating roles, and the moderating role of BADL existed only for the female. These suggested evidence to implement strategies to maintain health in the older people.

Training and retention effects of paced and music-synchronised walking exercises on pre-older females: an interventional study

BACKGROUND

Physical activity at pre-older ages (55-64 years) can greatly affect one's physical fitness, health, physical-activity behaviour, and quality of life at older ages. The objective of this study was to conduct a 24-week walking-exercise programme among sedentary pre-older females and investigate the influence of different walking cadences on cardiorespiratory fitness and associated biomarkers.

METHODS

A total of 78 pre-older sedentary female participants were recruited and randomly assigned to normal (n = 36), paced (n = 15), music-synchronised (n = 15) walking, and no-exercise control (n = 12) groups, respectively. The normal, paced, and music-synchronised walking groups walked at a cadence of 120 steps/min, 125 steps/min, and 120-128 steps/min, respectively, under supervised conditions. Anthropometric characteristics, step length, nutrient intake, blood pressure and composition, and cardiorespiratory fitness were measured at baseline, the 12th week of the programme, the 24th week of the programme (completion), and after a 12-week retention period, which began immediately upon completion of the programme and did not feature any supervised exercises.

RESULTS

All walking conditions improved high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, step length, maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), and oxidative capacity at anaerobic threshold (all P < 0.001); however, after the 12-week retention period only the training effects of HDL-C (P < 0.05) and VO2max (P < 0.05) remained robust. Additionally, music-synchronised walking was found to reduce the fat ratio (P = 0.031), while paced walking was found to reduce body mass (P = 0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

The significant pre-post changes in health-related outcomes across the 24-week walking intervention, including improved blood composition, longer step length, and better cardiorespiratory capacity, show that this intervention is promising for improving health and fitness. When, during the retention period, the participants resumed their usual lifestyles without supervised exercise, most physiological biomarkers deteriorated. Thus, for sedentary middle-aged females, persistent behavioural change is necessary to retain the health benefits of physical exercise.

Influence of Walking as Physiological Training to Improve Respiratory Parameters in the Elderly Population

Walking as physiological training is reported to be an effective activity in order to beneficially influence and slow the onset of aging in healthy elderly people. However, insufficient evidence exists on how walking influences lung function in seniors. In our study, we aim to evaluate the effect of different types of walking on lung function in healthy seniors. The PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and EBSCO Essentials databases were searched, while the methodological quality was assessed by the RoB2 tool. A total of seven studies (RCTs) published between 2002-2022 that met the eligibility criteria were analysed in this review. All participants were older adults without any specific associated disease, aged 60 and above. The interventions included structured physical activity; a high/moderate exercise program; long-term regular walking; walking as a part of functional movement training; walking sideways, backward and forward as a part of aerobic training; fast walking; Stepper walking; walking on a treadmill combined with incentive spirometry; and Nordic walking. Overall, most of the mentioned types of walking led to improved lung function in healthy elderly subjects. However, the prescribed Stepper walking program did not improve lung function in healthy seniors.