Association Between the Length of Leukocyte Telomeres and Functional Performance of Older Adults: Observational Study

Despite current literature pointing to a link between shortened telomeres and aging, chronic diseases, and geriatric syndromes, the precise implications of this connection remain unclear. The aim of this exploratory, cross-sectional, observational study was to investigate the association between the relative telomere length (RTL) of peripheral blood leukocyte subtypes (mononuclear cells and granulocytes) and physical performance using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) in older adults. A cohort of 95 participants was recruited, which included men and women aged over 60 years (70.48 ± 5.5 years). It was found that mononuclear cell RTL was significantly lower than that of granulocytes (p < 0.0001). Moreover, individuals with good SPPB performance exhibited lower mononuclear cell RTL compared with those with moderate or poor performance. However, no significant differences were observed in granulocyte RTL between different SPPB performance groups. The global SPPB score showed an inverse correlation with mononuclear cell RTL, but this correlation was not present with granulocyte RTL. Similarly, the SPPB sit-to-stand domain correlated with mononuclear cell RTL, but no such correlation was found with granulocyte RTL. Our findings challenge conventional expectations, suggesting that shorter mononuclear cell RTL may be associated with favorable functional capacity. The variations in RTL between mononuclear cells and granulocytes highlight their distinct biological roles and turnover rates. A history of immune responses may influence mononuclear cell RTL dynamics, while telomerase activity may protect granulocyte RTL from significant shortening. The unexpected associations observed in mononuclear cell RTL emphasize the complex interplay between immune responses, cellular aging, and functional capacity in older adults.

Risk of sarcopenia and mobility of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: the longitudinal data from the REMOBILIZE study

BACKGROUND

We assessed whether clinical, functional and behavioral factors were associated with the decrease in mobility trajectories reported in older people at risk of sarcopenia (RS) and without risk of sarcopenia (NRS) during COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

We prospectively analyzed mobility trajectories reported in older adults with RS and NRS over 16-month follow-up (Remobilize study). The self-perceived risk of sarcopenia and mobility were assessed using the SARC-F and the Life-Space Assessment (LSA) tools, respectively. Gender, age, comorbidities, pain, functional limitation, physical activity (time spent in walking; min/week), and sitting time (ST; hours/day) were assessed. We used a multilevel model to determine changes in mobility between groups and over time.

RESULTS

Mobility was lower in RS than in NRS. Older people at RS, who were women, aged 70-79 years and 80 years or older, inactive, and with moderate to severe functional limitation experienced reduced mobility trajectories reported over the pandemic. For older people at NRS, trajectories with reduce mobility reported were experienced by women with comorbidities, for those with insufficient walking time and aged 70-79 years; aged 70-79 years and with ST between 5 and 7 hours/day; for those with insufficient walking time and increased ST; and for those with pain and increased ST.

CONCLUSION

Mobility trajectories reported in older people at risk of sarcopenia were negatively influenced by insufficient level of physical inactivity and pre-existing moderate to severe functional limitation. Health and social interventions should be target to avoid mobility limitation during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Does the intensity of pain and disability affect health-related quality of life of older adults with back pain? Multilevel analysis between Brazil and Netherlands: a cross-sectional study of the BACE consortium

BACKGROUND

The prognosis of back pain (BP) in the older adults is less favorable than in younger adults and progress to adverse outcomes and consequent worsening of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The present study aimed to verify the association between BP intensity, disability and HRQoL in older adults residents in Brazil and Netherlands, and to evaluate whether the country of residence influences the associations.

METHODS

Data were collected from 602 Brazilian and 675 Dutch participants with a new episode of BP from the Back Complaints in Elders (BACE) consortium. For the present study, a cross section was used. Pain intensity and disability were assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), respectively. HRQoL was assessed using the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) quality of life questionnaire. Age, sex, and education were descriptive variables. Pain intensity (NPS score) and country were the independent variables and quality of life assessed by each SF domain - 36 was the dependent variable. Analysis of models at the individual level was performed to verify the association between pain and disability, also HRQoL in Netherlands and Brazil in the total sample. The multilevel model was used to verify whether the older adults person's country of residence influenced this relationship.

RESULTS

The average age of the participants was 67.00 (7.33) years. In the total sample, linear regression analysis adjusted for sex and age showed a significant association between BP intensity scores and HRQoL, for all domains. There was no association between disability and HRQoL. In the multilevel analysis, there was an association between BP intensity and HRQoL in all domains and an association between the country of residence and HRQoL, influencing the effect of pain, in all domains, except for the physical functioning.

CONCLUSION

Socioeconomic and cultural aspects of different countries can affect the perception of the elderly about their HRQoL in the presence of BP. Pain and disability in Brazilian and Dutch older adults ones are experienced differently in relation to their HRQoL.

Physical Activity Supported by Low-Cost Mobile Technology for Back Pain (PAT-Back) to Reduce Disability in Older Adults: Results of a Feasibility Study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial investigating the effectiveness of a multimodal program (PAT-Back) compared to best practice advice on pain and disability in older adults with chronic low back pain (LBP) in primary care.

METHODS

This feasibility study took place in Fortaleza, Northeast Brazil. The PAT-Back intervention consisted of a program including exercises, pain education, and motivational text messages for the in-home component. The control group received an evidence-based educational booklet. Feasibility outcomes were recruitment, adherence and retention rates, level of difficulty of the education and intervention content, perception of utility of mobile technology, and adverse events. The feasibility criteria were previously defined.

RESULTS

A total of 248 people were screened, of which 46 older adults were eligible. The retention rate was high (100% in the PAT-Back group and 95% in the control group). The adherence rate to intervention was partially met (60%), whereas the adherence rate to unsupervised exercises was adequate (75%), and perception about safety to perform home exercise was partially acceptable (70%) in the PAT-Back group. In addition, 100% of older adults reported which text messages motivated them to perform the exercises in the PAT-Back group. Difficulty reported by participants in understanding and performing the intervention was small in both groups. Six participants reported transient adverse events in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Older adults accepted both interventions. Results demonstrated that the program is feasible, although minor changes targeting adherence and safety in home exercise are needed.

IMPACT

This feasibility study supports progression to a full trial investigating the effectiveness of a multimodal program (PAT-Back) on pain and disability in older adults with chronic LBP within a primary health care setting in low to middle income countries where such data from the older population are scarce and the burden of LBP is increasing.

Did managers of long-term care facilities neglect the functionality of older adults? A survey during the COVID-19 pandemic

Physical distancing impaired the health of older adults living in long-term care facilities (LTCF). This study aimed to assess the perception of managers of Brazilian LTCF about the loss of functionality of residents and strategies to prevent it. In this cross-sectional study, 276 managers of LTCF from all Brazilian regions responded to an online survey, following the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys. The managers reported a loss of cognitive (60.2%) and physical (48.2%) functionality and more depressive symptoms (77.9%) and falls (16.3%) in residents. In addition, 73.2% of LTCFs reduced in-person activities, and 55.8% did not perform remote activities. Managers of LTCF neglected the functionality of residents. Thus, health surveillance, prevention, and care must be reinforced for this population.

Efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy on pain intensity and disability of older people with chronic nonspecific low back pain: a protocol for a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this network meta-analysis (NMA) is to investigate the efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy on pain intensity and disability of older people with chronic nonspecific low back pain, providing comprehensive evidence for an informed decision-making.

METHODS

We will perform a systematic search to identify randomized controlled trials of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for older people with chronic nonspecific low back pain. MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, AMED, PsycINFO, and PEDro will be searched without language or date restrictions. Our primary outcomes are pain intensity and disability. Risk of bias will be assessed for all studies using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias (RoB) tool 2.0. For each pairwise comparison between the different interventions, estimated mean differences and their 95% confidence intervals will be presented. Standard pairwise meta-analyses will be performed using random effects models in STATA version 16. The competing interventions will be ranked using the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) for the outcomes of interest at short and long terms. The confidence in the results from NMA will be assessed using the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA) framework.

DISCUSSION

This NMA compares efficacy of interventions for nonspecific chronic low back pain in older people. It will provide reliable evidence for patients, clinicians, stakeholders, and researchers in this field where competing therapies, many of extraordinarily little value, are commonly used in clinical practice.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42022312565.

Effectiveness of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy on pain intensity and disability in older people with chronic nonspecific low back pain: a systematic review with meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The aim of the present systematic review was to investigate the effectiveness of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy on pain intensity and disability in older people with chronic nonspecific low back pain.

METHODS

Searches were conducted in the MEDLINE, COCHRANE LIBRARY, EMBASE, AMED, PSYCINFO, and PEDRO databases up to 2022. Risk of bias was appraised using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. Estimated mean differences and respective 95% confidence intervals were presented for each paired comparison and the strength of the current evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Thirty-one original trials involving 2120 participants were included. All outcomes were self-rated. Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale or Numerical Rating Scale. Disability was evaluated using the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire, Oswestry Disability Index or Hannover Functional Ability Questionnaire. Short-term: Moderate quality of evidence that mindfulness reduces disability compared to patient education (mean difference [MD] =  - 1.38 [95% CI - 2.02 to - 0.73]); low-quality evidence that mixed exercise (MD = - 50.33 [95% CI - 57.11 to - 43.56]) reduces pain compared to no intervention, waiting list, placebo or sham; low quality of evidence that there is no effect for opioid compared to placebo (MD = - 8.26 [95% CI - 19.29 to 2.77]) with regards to reducing pain and opioid/acetaminophen reduces disability more compared to pregabalin (MD = 2.36 [95% CI] 1.86-2.86]).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings showed low or very low quality of evidence for non-pharmacological interventions with a large effect in short- and long-term follow-up. The two studies that provided moderate quality of evidence had a small clinical effect. Only two studies were found that investigated pharmacological therapies-both with low quality of evidence. However, the studies were methodologically weak and had small sample sizes. Given the adverse effects of low back pain and the scarce information on the effectiveness of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for older people, future randomized trials should be encouraged.

Validity and reliability of the short form brief pain inventory in older adults with nociceptive, neuropathic and nociplastic pain

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Short Form Brief Pain Inventory (SF-BPI) for community-dwelling Brazilian older adults with chronic neuropathic, nociceptive and nociplastic pain.

METHODS

Cross-sectional psychometric testing was conducted in a convenience sample, n=114 (66.5 ± 4.9 years).

RESULTS

The 2-factor structure of the SF-BPI was ratified by confirmatory factor analysis. Convergent validity was found between the SF-BPI and the Present Pain Intensity (PPI). There was good overall internal consistency (Cronbach's α: 0.87). Test-retest reliability was excellent for pain intensity and interference scores of the SF-BPI (ICC: 0.90 and 0.96, respectively), as well as inter-rater reliability for both dimensions (ICC: 0.77).

CONCLUSION

The findings support the validity and reliability of the SF-BPI for community-dwelling older adults with chronic pain and may contribute to health professionals having a brief multidimensional assessment for more effective therapeutic approaches in this population.

Resistance training as a tool for changing muscle mass and frailty status in sarcopenic older women: a quasi-experimental study

ABSTRACT Frailty and sarcopenia are geriatric syndromes highly prevalent, complex, and hard to diagnose and treat. The literature still lacks a consensus on which resistance training program is better for older people, especially when considering frailty status and sarcopenia. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a progressive resistance training program on muscle mass and frailty status in older sarcopenic women. This study included 18 community-dwelling sarcopenic women aged 65 or older enrolled in the progressive resistance training program. The intervention was based on 75% of each subject’s maximum repetition test (3 times/week, for 12 weeks). Before the intervention, 16.7% were frail, and 61.1% were pre-frail; after the intervention, 5.6% were frail, and 50% were pre-frail. The result shows that the intervention reduced frailty status and increased muscle mass (p=0.01). Hence, after the intervention, we observed both a decrease in frailty and a positive change in function, since the percentage of robust women increased twice (p=0.01). We conclude that the progressive resistance training program might be the best strategy to prevent frailty and sarcopenia. Therefore, we suggest using weight resistance training in daily clinical practice to improve muscle mass and decrease frailty status in sarcopenic women.

Clinimetric properties of a postural assessment software in older people: reliability, standard error of measurement, and minimal detectable change

Objective: To evaluate intra- and inter-rater reliability, standard error of the measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the angles obtained with a Postural Assessment Software (SAPO) in older people. Methods: Postural evaluation of 32 older adults was performed using Postural Assessment Software (SAPO). Two raters performed the procedure independently, and one of the raters repeated the process 7 to 10 days later. Reliability was assessed through the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and paired and independent t-tests. SEM and MDC95 values were calculated, and Bland-Altman plots were generated. Results: The inter-rater analysis showed that the raters were not different in any of the angles. Most angles achieved good to excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.34 – 0.81) and intrarater reliability (ICC = 0.33 – 0.88) and were not different between days. The SEM was lower than 10º in most angles. The MDC95 ranged from 2.88º to 18.49º. Bland-Altman analysis indicated that most angles were within the limits of agreement. Overall, angles generated in lateral view had better reliability properties. Conclusion: Postural Assessment Software (SAPO) showed angles with distinct reliability properties in older adults. Angles that reached good to excellent intra- and inter-reliability and exhibited lower variability could be considered for assessing postural changes in older adults. MDC95 values could be used as a reference for indicating changes greater than the variability of the measurement.

Prevalence risk of sarcopenia in older Brazilian adults during the pandemic: A cross-sectional analysis of the Remobilize Study

BACKGROUND

Social distancing has led to lifestyle changes among older adults during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence risk of sarcopenia (RS) and investigate its associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in older Brazilian adults.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross-sectional observational analysis of baseline data as part of the Remobilize Study.

METHODS

Participants in the study were older adults (≥ 60 years), excluding those who were bedridden or institutionalized. The data collected consisted of answers about the RS (SARC-F), functional status, walking, sedentary behavior (SB), pain, comorbidity, and life space mobility.

RESULTS

A total of 1,482 older adults (70 ± 8.14 years, 74% women) participated in the study, and an RS prevalence of 17.1% was found. (95% confidence interval [CI] 15.25-19.15%). The adjusted multivariate model showed a significant association between RS and functional limitation (odds ratio [OR]: 19.05; CI 13.00-28.32), comorbidity (OR: 5.11; CI 3.44-7.81), pain (OR: 4.56; CI 3.33-6.28), total walking (OR: 0.99; CI 0.99-1.00), SB of 8-10 hours (OR: 1.85; CI 1.15-2.93), and SB of > 10 hours (OR: 3.93; CI 2.48-6.22). RS was associated with mobility during the pandemic (OR: 0.97; CI 0.96-0.98). P < 0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

During the pandemic, the prevalence of RS in older Brazilians was estimated at 17.1%. Moderate to severe functional limitation, comorbidities, presence of pain, walking, longer SB period, and reduced life space mobility significantly contributed to RS in older adults during the pandemic.

The effect of kinesiophobia in older people with acute low back pain: longitudinal data from Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE)

This study aimed to investigate the course of low back pain (LBP) intensity over a period of 12 months in older people with and without kinesiophobia.This was an international multicenter study. LBP intensity was examined by using the Numerical Pain Scale at baseline and over five follow-up periods. The Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire was used to measure patients' beliefs and fears. The study included 532 older adults (non kinesiophobic = 227; kinesiophobic = 305). The individuals had moderate pain at baseline, with a significant difference observed between the groups. Participants showed a rapid improvement in the first 6 weeks, followed by minor improvements in the succeeding months. However, a significant difference between groups remained during the follow-up period. Independently, kinesiophobia is a significant prognostic factor. These findings suggest the importance of screening for psychosocial factors in the management of older patients with LBP. Practice implications: patients need to be warned that pain can be perpetuated by inappropriate avoidance behaviors that may later lead to disability.

Attitudes and beliefs of older adults with acute low back pain: 12-month results from the Brazilian cohort back complaints in the elders

BACKGROUND

Psychosocial factors have been identified as important predictors of onset, course and persistence of low back pain (LBP) in the general population.

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors associated with attitudes/beliefs in older adults with LBP throughout a 12-month follow-up.

METHODS

A longitudinal investigation was conducted with 500 participants aged ≥60 years reporting a new (acute) episode of nonspecific LBP. Data were obtained at baseline, 6-week, 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month interviews. The study variables were: [dependent] LBP-related attitudes/beliefs that were assessed by the Back Beliefs Questionnaire (BBQ); [independent] age; sex; LBP intensity 'at-the-present-time' of interview and 'over-the-past-week' before interview; LBP frequency; LBP-related treatments; disability; mobility; depressive symptoms; self-perceived recovery; expectation of pain improvement; and expectation for returning to activities. Data were analysed by multiple linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

At baseline, 85.7% of the participants were female, had mean age of 69.0 (6.3) years, mean BBQ score of 24.5 (6.5), and 79.6% reported pain complaints after an acute episode of LBP. After 12 months, participants maintained a mean BBQ score of 24.6 (6.6) and 63.3% still reported pain complaints after an acute episode of LBP at baseline. Multivariate analysis showed that disability, advancing age, poor expectation of pain improvement in 3 months, and mobility decline were significantly associated with worse BBQ scores during all follow-ups.

CONCLUSION

Ageing, hopelessness, and physical and functional impairment impact pain-related behaviours among older patients seeking healthcare due to acute LBP complaints. Their screening may assist in strategies to manage symptoms and prevent the persistence of pain.

Use of healthcare services and therapeutic measures associated with new episodes of acute low back pain-related disability among elderly people: a cross-sectional study on the Back Complaints in the Elders - Brazil cohort

BACKGROUND

Patients with low back pain frequently undergo a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, but some of these have uncertain effectiveness. This highlights the importance of the association of healthcare services and therapeutic measures relating to disability.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the use of healthcare services and therapeutic measures among Brazilian older adults with disability-related low back pain.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Observational cross-sectional study on baseline assessment data from the Back Complaints in the Elders - Brazil (BACE-B) cohort.

METHODS

The main analyses were based on a consecutive sample of 602 older adult participants in BACE-B (60 years of age and over). The main outcome measurement for disability-related low back pain was defined as a score of 14 points or more in the Roland Morris Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Visits to doctors in the previous six weeks (odds ratio, OR = 1.82; 95% confidence interval, CI 1.22-2.71) and use of analgesics in the previous three months (OR = 1.57; 95% CI 1.07-2.31) showed statistically significant associations with disability-related low back pain. The probability of disability-related low back pain had an additive effect to the combination of use of healthcare services and therapeutic measures (OR = 2.57; 95% CI 1.52-4.36). The analyses showed that this association was significant among women, but not among men.

CONCLUSIONS

Occurrence of the combined of consultations and medication use was correlated with higher chance of severe disability among these elderly people with nonspecific low back pain. This suggested that overuse and "crowding-in" effects were present in medical services for elderly people.

Knee extension strength and handgrip strength are important predictors of Timed Up and Go test performance among community-dwelling elderly women: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Handgrip and knee extension strengths have each been used to characterize disability. However, it has been reported that the association between handgrip and knee extension strengths is weak.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the influence of knee extensor and handgrip muscle strength on Timed Up and Go (TUG) test results among elderly women with worse (≥ 10 seconds) and better (< 10 seconds) performance, after controlling for confounders.

DATA AND SETTING

Cross-sectional study on a sample selected according to convenience, carried out in a federal public institution of higher education.

METHODS

Assessment of handgrip was carried out using the Jamar dynamometer (Lafayette Instrument Company, Inc., Lafayette, United States). Knee extensor muscle performance was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer (Biodex System 3 Pro; Biodex Medical Systems, Inc., United States), The confounding factors were education, age, comorbidities, body mass index and Geriatric Depression Scale and Human Activity Profile scores. Functional performance was assessed through the TUG test. A backward linear regression model was used.

RESULTS

127 elderly women performed the TUG test in more than 10 seconds and 93 in less than 10 seconds. However, regardless of test performance, handgrip strength and knee extension strength comprised the reduced final model.

CONCLUSIONS

Knee extension strength and handgrip strength might be particularly useful indicators for measuring disability.

Cross-cultural adaptation, validity and reproducibility of the Back Beliefs Questionnaire among older Brazilians with acute low back pain. A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Low back pain (LBP) has emerging as an epidemic, multifactorial and multidimensional condition in older age. Assessment of attitudes and beliefs of patients with back pain is necessary for understanding the impact of psychosocial factors on pain perception and management.

OBJECTIVES

To cross-culturally adapt and examine the validity and reproducibility (intra and interrater reliability and agreement) of the Back Beliefs Questionnaire (BBQ) in older Brazilians with acute LBP.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross-sectional methodological report conducted at the Department of Physical Therapy of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

METHODS

The present study was conducted for translating, adapting, and examining the psychometric properties of a questionnaire. Participants aged ≥ 60 years experiencing an acute episode of LBP were recruited. Coefficients of internal consistency, reliability and agreement were obtained using Cronbach's α, intraclass correlations, and standard error of measurement and the smallest detectable change, respectively.

RESULTS

Twenty-six participants aged between 60-84 years and reporting a mean of 9.8 (4.3) years of schooling completed the study. The Brazilian Portuguese-language version of the BBQ (BBQ-Brazil) was proposed and presented with adequate conceptual, semantic, operational, and measurement equivalence from the original version. Intra and interrater evaluations showed moderate (0.74) and excellent (0.91) intraclass correlation coefficients, respectively, with small standard error of measurement for both evaluations. Internal consistency was considered adequate (0.70).

CONCLUSION

BBQ-Brazil had consistent measurements of validity and reproducibility, and proved to be a valuable tool in clinical practice for addressing attitudes and beliefs of older patients with acute LBP.

Is the Leukocyte Telomere Length Associated with Decreased Physical Functional Capacity in the Elderly?

Leukocyte telomere length in the elderly has been positively associated with healthy living and physical activity. Factors that interfere with telomere shortening are similar to those that may be associated with decreasing functional capacity. To investigate the relationship between mean leukocyte telomere length and functional capacity in community-dwelling elderly individuals, this is an observational, cross sectional, multicentric study conducted with elderly Brazilian patients. Sample characterization was performed using a sociodemographic clinical questionnaire. Telomere length was evaluated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and functional capacity was evaluated by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). A total of 113 elderly individuals (age 70 ± 5.4 years; 75 women and 38 men) were enrolled in this study. Unexpectedly, it was found that lower relative telomere length was associated with better physical capacity in the global SPPB score. Although telomere shortening is observed with increasing age, it is not associated with decreased functional capacity. Functionality is broad and multidimensional, involving the connection of biopsychosocial and cultural factors. While functionality may not be considered a marker of functional aging in an elderly cohort, it can still play an important role in longitudinal studies, which attempt to elucidate process theories. Future studies should use different techniques to measure telomere lengths in subpopulations of cells.

Physiological risk of falls, physical and aerobic capacity in community-dwelling elderly

Abstract Introduction: Falls are multifactorial and are related to the aging process, reduced functional capacity, comorbidities, sensory deficits, muscle weakness, postural instability and decreased protective response. Objective: To verify the correlation between physiological risk of falls and physical and aerobic capacity of the community-dwelling elderly. Method: Participated elderly individuals from the community, aged ≥65 years, without distinction of sex, race, and/or social class. We excluded cognitive impairments, locomotion incapacity, neurological diseases or sequelae, and/or severe pain that prevented the performance of the tests. We evaluated risk of falls (Physiological Profile Assessment - PPA), physical capacity (Short Physical Performance Battery - SPPB) and aerobic capacity (Shuttle Walk Test - ISWT). Results: Participated 59 elderly (71.8±5.0 ys). The mean performance in PPA was 0.4±0.4; SPPB was 10.4±1.7 and ISWT was 281±111.7 meters. PPA presented a moderate and statistically significant correlation (P<0.001) for SPPB (r= -0.53) and ISWT (r= -0.46). Conclusion: There is a moderate correlation between the physiological risk of falls (PPA) and functional (SPPB) and aerobic capacity (ISWT). Preventive measures to reduce the risk of falls should include strategies to increase functional and aerobic capacity. It is suggested the systematic use of SPPB in clinical practice.

Cross-cultural adaptation and reliability of the pain response to activity and position questionnaire

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization reports that one of the main incapacitating conditions in older adults is osteomusculoskeletal disorders, and among these is low back pain. There are few instruments translated and transculturally adapted with psychometric properties evaluated for older adults with this health condition in Brazil. The Pain Response to Activity and Positioning (PRAP) questionnaire enables classification of older adults through functional performance. The objective of this study was to perform a cross-cultural adaptation and verify the reliability of the PRAP for older Brazilian people with chronic low back pain.

METHODS

A cross-sectional methodological study from the international study "Back Complaints in the Elders". We included individuals aged ≥60 years, with chronic lumbar pain complaints lasting ≥3 months. The transcultural translation and adaptation process followed the criteria proposed by Beaton and Guilhemeim, 1993. Reliability was tested using an unweighted Cohen's Kappa.

RESULTS

Thirty-six (36) older adults participated in the study (71.15 ± 7.23 years, 94.4% female). The intra-rater reliability for Low Back Pain (LBP) was between 0.50-1.00 and 0.23-0.84 for lower limbs, while the inter-rater reliability for LBP was between 0.25-0.63 and between 0.18-0.53 for lower limbs. The criteria for low back pain diagnosis showed intra and inter-rater agreement of 0.52 and 0.47, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The Brazilian version of the instrument showed adequate reliability and ability to classify older adults in the diagnosis of LBP by reporting the performance of daily activities, and is indicated for use in the context of research and clinical practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

There is no trial registration. This is a methodological study.

Influence of the number and severity of comorbidities in the course of acute non-specific low back pain in older adults: longitudinal results from the Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE-Brazil)

BACKGROUND

The presence of comorbidities is quite common in older adults. However, the effects of comorbidities on the course of acute low back pain (LBP) are not fully understood.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of the number and severity of comorbidities on the severity of pain and disability 3 months from baseline in people with an acute episode of non-specific LBP.

METHODS

Data from the Back Complaints in the Elders study, a cohort that enrolled 602 community-dwelling older adults with acute LBP at baseline, were used in these analyses. Comorbidities, pain intensity and disability were assessed using the Self-Administered Comorbidities Questionnaire (SCQ), the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), respectively. Age, sex, marital status, education, income and body mass index were covariates.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 67.6 ± 7.0 years. Both pain and disability scores decreased from 7.2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 7.0-7.4) to 5.8 (95% CI 5.5-6.1) in NRS and from 13.5 (95% CI 13.0-14.1) to 12.0 (95% CI 11.4-12.7) in RMDQ 3 months from baseline. The linear regression analysis showed a significant association between SCQ scores at baseline and pain (coefficient = 0.16, 95% CI 0.08-0.24; P < 0.001) or disability (coefficient = 0.29, 95% CI 0.16-0.41; P < 0.001) scores at the 3-month follow-up, after adjusting for confounders. Participants with highest SCQ scores were less likely to report improvement of at least 30% in pain (OR: 0.41, 95% CI 0.22-0.79; P = 0.008) and disability (OR: 0.42, 95% CI 0.28-0.85; P = 0.015).

CONCLUSION

The presence and severity of comorbidities were independently associated with the prognosis of acute non-specific LBP in older adults.

Biopsychosocial factors associated with disability in older adults with acute low back pain: BACE-Brasil study

This cross-sectional study evaluated the association of biopsychosocial factors with disability in older adults with a new episode of acute low back pain. Older patients with a new episode of acute low back pain were included and those with cognitive alterations and severe motor impairment were excluded. Disability was assessed using the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire. The biopsychosocial factors (clinical, functional, health status, psychological and social variables) were evaluated by a structured multidimensional questionnaire and physical examination. A multivariate linear regression was used to analyze data with a statistical significance of 0.05. A total of 386 older individuals with a mean age of 71.6 (± 4.2) years and disability of 13.7 (± 5.7) points were enrolled. Our regression analyses identified that worse physical and mental health (assessed through SF-36), low falls self-efficacy, trouble sleeping due to pain, worse kinesiophobia levels, higher body mass indexes, lumbar morning stiffness, increased pain intensity, female gender and worse functional mobility were significantly associated with baseline disability (p < 0.05). Low back pain-related disability is significantly associated with worse biopsychosocial health conditions in older adults.

Risco de sarcopenia em idosas com queixa de dor lombar aguda

RESUMO Verificou-se o risco de sarcopenia em idosas comunitárias com queixa de dor lombar aguda e comparou-se o índice de dor e mobilidade/equilíbrio entre aquelas em risco de sarcopenia e as não sarcopênicas. Pesquisa transversal, subprojeto do estudo epidemiológico e multicêntrico Back Complaints in the Elders (Bace). Participaram idosas com ao menos um episódio de dor lombar aguda no prazo de seis semanas antes da coleta de dados. Avaliou-se a velocidade de marcha (4,6m), a força de preensão palmar (dinamômetro Jamar), o índice de dor (escala analógica de dor) e mobilidade/equilíbrio (Timed Up and Go test). O risco de sarcopenia foi estimado por medida percentual e as comparações pelo teste t para amostras independentes; o nível de significância adotado foi de 5%. Participaram deste estudo 322 idosas: o risco de sarcopenia foi de 54%, ou seja, 173 idosas (71,8±5,2 anos) estavam em risco de sarcopenia e 149 (46%) eram não sarcopênicas (71,5±5,1 anos). Houve diferença quanto à intensidade da dor (p=0,02) e à mobilidade/ao equilíbrio (p=0,01), sendo que aquelas em risco de sarcopenia estavam em piores condições. Os resultados demonstraram risco de sarcopenia entre as idosas com dor lombar aguda. Estas apresentavam maior índice de dor e pior mobilidade/equilíbrio, sugerindo que a sarcopenia, se presente em idosas com essa dor, pode influenciar negativamente na funcionalidade.

Pontos de corte alternativos para massa muscular apendicular para verificação da sarcopenia em idosos brasileiros: dados da Rede Fibra - Belo Horizonte/Brasil

RESUMO Estabeleceram-se pontos de corte alternativos para o cálculo da massa muscular apendicular (MMA) em idosos brasileiros para classificar a sarcopenia. Foram analisados dados de 562 idosos participantes do estudo Fibra (Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros), no polo Belo Horizonte. Por meio da equação de Lee, determinaram-se pontos de corte para MMA baseado na percentil 20 de sua distribuição na população estudada. Em seguida, os sujeitos foram classificados para sarcopenia de acordo com os critérios do Consenso Europeu sobre Definição e Diagnóstico da Sarcopenia em Idosos, além de avaliadas as possíveis associações desta com a capacidade funcional e comorbidades. A maioria da amostra foi composta por mulheres (65,5%) com idade média de 74,1 (±6,4) e média de 1,5 (±1,4) comorbidades. Os pontos de corte para MMA foram <6.47kg/m2 para mulheres e <8.76kg/m2 para homens. A prevalência de sarcopenia foi de 14,9%, sendo 13,5% da população parcialmente dependente para atividades básicas de vida diária (ABVD), 30,6% para atividades instrumentais de vida diária (AIVD) e 66,7% para atividades avançadas de aida diária (AAVD). A sarcopenia se correlacionou apenas com AIVD (r=0,081, p= 0.05), e encontrou-se uma correlação negativa entre sarcopenia e comorbidades (r= −0,103, p=0,014). Foram propostos pontos de corte específicos para MMA para a população de idosos brasileiros e não foram encontradas correlações entre as variáveis do estudo, exceto para AIVD e comorbidades.

FACTOR ANALYSIS OF THE MINNESOTA LEISURE TIME ACTIVITIES QUESTIONNAIRE - BRAZILIAN PORTUGUESE

ABSTRACT Introduction: Accurate measures of physical activity to establish dose-response relationship in health outcomes are still controversial. Scales that estimate caloric expenditure are proposed with a view to categorizing the phenomenon globally. Objective: To carry out a factor analysis of the structure of the Minnesota Leisure Time Activities Questionnaire - Brazilian Portuguese, and propose a new adapted version for the Brazilian elderly community. Methods: Participants were elderly female members of the community, without any distinction in terms of ethnic group and/or social class, who frequented extension projects of two higher education institutions. Those with cognitive impairments; dependence on walking aids; musculoskeletal pain in the last two weeks and neurological diseases were excluded from the study. All participants answered the questionnaire with sociodemographic and clinical data and the Minnesota Leisure Time Activities Questionnaire - Brazilian Portuguese version. We determined whether each activity had been undertaken by the participants and the average number of times it was performed over the last two weeks, considering average time, in minutes, on each occasion. Each activity was considered a single item and energy expenditure was calculated according to the authors’ instructions. We used factor analysis with Varimax orthogonal rotation, excluding items whose variance was equal to zero. Correlation between items was determined using the Pearson correlation matrix. Internal consistency between items, before and after the factor analysis, was verified using Cronbach’s α coefficient. 5% significance level. Results: Participants were 220 women (70.8 ± 5.9 years). The factor analysis resulted in 10 components, which explained, in total, 61.87% of the variance of the total score on the scale. Each component was composed of one, two or three aggregate items. Internal consistency by Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.30. Conclusion: The factor analysis of the structure of the Minnesota Leisure Time Activities Questionnaire - Brazilian Portuguese- has shown a new range with 10 components, which explained, in total, more than 60% of the variance of the total score on the scale, yet with low internal consistency. Level of Evidence III; Study of nonconsecutive patients; without consistently applied reference ‘‘gold’’ standard.

Vulnerabilidade física de idosos na alta hospitalar

RESUMO Vulnerabilidade é a capacidade de um indivíduo sofrer dano em resposta a um estímulo. Identificou-se a vulnerabilidade física de idosos na alta hospitalar e a associação dessa condição com fatores clínicos e sociodemográficos, e foram comparados idosos vulneráveis com os não vulneráveis e aqueles acompanhados ou não pela fisioterapia durante a internação. Este foi um estudo exploratório, com amostra de 122 idosos hospitalizados. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de questionário clínico e sociodemográfico, Mini Exame do Estado Mental, Escala de Depressão Geriátrica e Vunerable Elders Survey-13. Utilizou-se para tanto o teste de correlação de Spearman para identificar a correlação entre vulnerabilidade e dados clínicos e sociodemográficos e o teste de Mann-Whitney. O nível de significância foi de 5%. A vulnerabilidade foi identificada em 75,4% dos idosos. Houve correlação significativa entre vulnerabilidade e idade (r=0,52 p=0,01), tempo de internação (r=0,25 p=0,01) e número de comorbidades (r=0,25 p=0,01), e negativa entre vulnerabilidade e escolaridade (r=-0,20 p=0,02). Houve diferença estatística entre idosos vulneráveis e não vulneráveis para idade (p=0,01), comorbidades (p=0,01), tempo de internação (p=0,01), MEEM (p=0,01) e GDS (p=0,01), e entre idosos acompanhados ou não pela fisioterapia para vulnerabilidade (p=0,04) e tempo de internação (p=0,01). A maioria dos idosos era fisicamente vulnerável na alta hospitalar, sendo eles mais velhos, com mais comorbidades, maior tempo de internação, presença de declínio cognitivo e sintomas depressivos. Aqueles que receberam acompanhamento fisioterapêutico apresentaram maior vulnerabilidade e tempo de internação.

Multidimensional features of pain in patients with chronic neck pain

Abstract Introduction: Chronic neck pain is associated with significant health costs and loss of productivity at work. Objective: to assess pain and disability in individuals with chronic neck pain. Methods: 31 volunteers with chronic neck pain, mean age 29, 65 years, were assessed using the McGill Pain Questionnaire in Brazilian version (Br-MPQ) and Neck Disability Index (NDI). The Br-MPQ analysis was performed based on the numerical values associated with the words selected to describe the experience of pain (Pain Rating Index - PRI), and present pain intensity (PPI). NDI was used to evaluate the influence of neck pain in performance of everyday tasks. Finally, we investigated the association between PPI and NDI. Results: PRI revealed that the most significant dimension was the sensory pain (70%), and the number of chosen words was 10 (2,62) out of 20 words. Mean PPI value was 1,23 (0,76) in five points; 40% of participants described pain intensity as moderate. NDI score was 9,77 (3,34), indicating mild disability. There was a positive association between disability and pain intensity (r = 0,36; p =0,046). Pain intensity and duration of pain were not associated. Conclusions: Findings of this study identified important information related to neck pain experienced by patients when suffering from chronic neck pain, moreover, the association between disability and pain intensity reinforces the importance of complementary investigation of these aspects to optimize function in them.

The Brazilian Back Complaints in the Elders (Brazilian BACE) study: characteristics of Brazilian older adults with a new episode of low back pain

OBJECTIVE

Low back pain (LBP) is little explored in the aging population especially when considering age-relevant and culturally dependent outcomes. We aimed to describe socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of Brazilian older people with a new episode of LBP presenting to primary care.

METHODS

We sourced baseline information on socio-demographic, pain-related and clinical characteristics from 602 older adults from the Brazilian Back Complaints in the Elders (Brazilian BACE) study. We analyzed differences in pain, disability, functional capacity and psychosocial factors between sub-groups based on age (i.e. participants aged 55-74 or ≥75 years), education (i.e. those with four years or less of schooling or those with more than four years of schooling) and income (i.e. participants who reported earning two or less minimal wages or three and more).

RESULTS

Participants presented severe LBP (7.18/10, SD: 2.59). Younger participants were slightly more disabled (mean difference 1.29 points, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03/5.56), reporting poorer physical health, and less fall-related self-efficacy (mean difference of 2.41, 95% CI 0.35/4.46). Those less educated, and those with income equal or less than two minimum wages had more disability, pain catastrophizing and worse functional capacity.

CONCLUSIONS

This was the first study showing that Brazilian older adults with LBP present high levels of functional disability and psychological distress, especially those with low socioeconomic status.

Inflammation and oxidative stress in heart failure: effects of exercise intensity and duration

Although acute exercise is apparently pro-inflammatory and increases oxidative stress, it can promote the necessary stress stimulus to train chronic adaptations in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). This study aimed to compare the effects of exercise intensity and duration on the inflammatory markers soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor (sTNFR1) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and on oxidative stress [malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzymes: catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)] in individuals with CHF. Eighteen patients performed three exercise sessions: 30 min of moderate-intensity (M30) exercise, 30 min of low-intensity (L30) exercise, and 45 min of low-intensity (L45) exercise. Blood analysis was performed before exercise (baseline), immediately after each session (after), and 1 h after the end of each session (1h after). Thirty min of M30 exercise promoted a larger stressor stimulus, both pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative, than that promoted by exercises L30 and L45. This was evidenced by increased sTNFR1 and MDA levels after exercise M30. In response to this stressor stimulus, 1 h after exercise, there was an increase in IL-6 and CAT levels, and a return of sTNFR1 to baseline levels. These findings suggest that compared with the duration of exercise, the exercise intensity was an important factor of physiologic adjustments.

Comparison between parameters of muscle performance and inflammatory biomarkers of non-sarcopenic and sarcopenic elderly women

Background

Sarcopenia is a multifactorial geriatric syndrome with complex interrelationships. Increased plasma levels of inflammatory mediators increase the catabolic stimuli of the musculature, thereby causing a decrease in mass and muscular function.

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare the performance of the knee extensors test (by isokinetic dynamometer) and plasma levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and soluble receptors of tumor necrosis factor alpha (sTNFR1) between sarcopenics and non-sarcopenics community-dwelling elderly women residents of Brazil.

Material and methods

The diagnosis of sarcopenia included measurements of body composition (by densitometry with dual energy source of X-ray), handgrip strength (by Jamar^® dynamometer), and the usual gait velocity according to the recommendations of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People. In both sarcopenics and non-sarcopenics elderly women, we evaluated the muscle function by knee extensors test (using an isokinetic dynamometer Byodex System 4 Pro^®) at angular speeds of 60°/s and 180°/s) and also we evaluated the plasma concentrations of IL-6 and sTNFR1. Comparisons of muscle performance between groups were carried out using mixed factorial ANOVA with post hoc Bonferroni test; sTNFR1 and IL-6 variables were analyzed by applying Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

Statistical differences were observed between groups regarding muscle power (P=0.01), total work adjusted to body weight (P=0.01) at a rate of 180°/s, and plasma levels of sTNFR1 (P=0.01).

Conclusion

Sarcopenic elder women showed lower performance of the lower limbs, especially at a higher speed, predisposing these older women to greater vulnerability in functional activities that require agility and postural stability. Plasma levels of sTNFR1 were higher for non-sarcopenics elderlies. However, due to the observational nature of the study, it was impossible to infer causality among the variables surveyed.

Handgrip strength is associated with, but poorly predicts, disability in older women with acute low back pain: A 12-month follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Older women with low back pain (LBP) constitute a special subpopulation at risk of severe and permanent disability. It is important to identify factors limiting functionality in this population in order to reduce costs and improve both prevention and intervention. Handgrip strength (HGS) is a biomarker of aging associated with several adverse health outcomes, but long-term associations with disability in older patients with LBP are not known.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether HGS predicts disability in older women with acute low back pain (LBP).

METHODS

Longitudinal analyses were conducted with a sample of 135 older women from the international multicenter study Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE-Brazil). Women aged 60 years and over with a new episode of acute LBP were included. HGS was assessed with Jamar^® dynamometer, and disability was assessed using the Roland Morris questionnaire and gait speed test. Variables were assessed at baseline and at 12-month follow-up. Linear regression models explored associations between HGS and disability measures.

RESULTS

Significant association was found between HGS at baseline and gait speed at 12-month follow-up (r=-0.24; p=0.004). A multivariable-adjusted model showed that this association was independent of age, body mass index, and pain intensity (adjusted R²=0.13; p<0.001). A final prediction model showed an incremental difference of only 2.1% in gait speed after inclusion of HGS as an independent variable. No association was found between HGS and score on the Roland Morris questionnaire.

CONCLUSION

Caution is needed regarding the use of HGS as a predictive measure of disability in older women with acute LBP. Changes in gait speed were very small and unlikely to be of clinical relevance.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor plasma levels are increased in older women after an acute episode of low back pain

BACKGROUND

Low back pain (LBP) is a growing public health problem in old age, and it is associated with disabling pain and depressive disorders. We compared brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plasma levels, a key neurotrophin in pain modulation, between older women after an acute episode of LBP and age-matched pain-free controls, and investigated potential differences in BDNF levels between controls and LBP subgroups based on pain severity, presence of depressive symptoms and use of analgesic and antidepressant drugs.

METHODS

A total of 221 participants (154 with LBP and 67 pain-free) were studied. A comprehensive assessment of sociodemographic and clinical variables was conducted including pain severity (11-point NRS), depressive symptoms (GDS-15), age, body mass index, physical activity and total number of comorbidities and medications in use.

RESULTS

BDNF levels in LBP group were significantly higher than controls (7515.9±3021.2; Md=7116.0 vs 6331.8±3364.0; Md=5897.5pg/mL, P=0.005). LBP subgroups exhibited higher BDNF levels than controls, regardless of pain severity, presence of depressive symptoms and use of analgesic drugs. BDNF levels were significantly higher in LBP subgroup without use of antidepressant drugs compared to both controls and LBP subgroup with use of antidepressant drugs.

DISCUSSION

This study provides evidence that older women with acute low back pain exhibit higher BDNF plasma levels compared to pain-free controls. Subgroup comparisons suggest that use of pain-relief drugs may influence BDNF levels. The study results offer a novel target for research on mechanisms of back pain in older adults.

ADAPTAÇÃO TRANSCULTURAL E CONFIABILIDADE DO ACTIVE AUSTRALIA QUESTIONNAIRE PARA IDOSOS

RESUMO Introdução: A atividade física é um importante parâmetro a ser quantificado em idosos. São necessários instrumentos de medida confiáveis para avaliar e elaborar metas de intervenções terapêuticas efetivas e verificar a evolução do paciente. Objetivo: Adaptar transculturalmente e determinar a confiabilidade teste-reteste e interexaminadores do Active Australia Questionnaire em idosos da comunidade. Métodos: A adaptação transcultural foi realizada de acordo com os critérios propostos por Guillemin e Beaton, a saber, tradução, retrotradução, síntese das traduções, apresentação ao comitê de especialistas e aplicação da versão pré-final para testar o questionário. Para a confiabilidade teste-reteste foi dado um intervalo de quatro horas para as coletas e um intervalo de seis horas para a análise interexaminador, após o reteste. Foram consideradas as informações de atividade física nos últimos sete dias. A caracterização da amostra foi feita pela análise descritiva. Para a análise da confiabilidade utilizou-se o coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI). Participaram do estudo 22 idosos (72,5 ± 5,3 anos) e com 7,6 ± 3,9 anos de escolaridade. Resultados: A confiabilidade teste-reteste foi CCI = 0,97 e interexaminadores CCI = 0,82. Conclusão: O instrumento mostrou-se semântica e linguisticamente adequado e confiável, para avaliar o nível de atividade física em idosos na comunidade.

Factors that impact functional performance of elderly with low back pain

Abstract Introduction: Low back pain is a common condition among older adults and an important cause of disability. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between functional performance of older adults with low back pain and the following variables: sociodemographic and clinical factors, self-perceived health and back pain beliefs. Methods: A cross-sectional study that used data from the Back Complaints in the Elders international consortium. Information about sociodemographic factors (sex, age, marital status, formal education), clinical factors (intensity and frequency of pain, comorbidities), self-perceived health, back pain beliefs and functional performance (measured by the disability component of the Late Life Function and Disability Instrument - LLFDI) were collected through self-report. 191 older adults above 60 years with a new episode of back complaints who did not have any cognitive disorder, visual or hearing impairment, or motor disabilities participated in the study. A bivariate analysis was conducted between each independent variable and each outcome. Associations with p < 0.20 were selected for the multiple linear regression analysis, which was carried out for each LLFDI domain. Results: The multiple regression coefficients of determination were significant despite the modest magnitude. The variables related to functional performance were back beliefs, self-perceived health, formal education, pain frequency and marital status. Conclusion: These results may contribute to the expansion of health professionals’ work in the therapeutic approach of low back pain, broadening its focus beyond clinical aspects in order to value beliefs of older adults and their self-perceived health.

Functional performance and plasma cytokine levels in elderly women with and without low back pain

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Low back pain (LBP) is a complaint of great importance among the elderly due to its significant impact on function. LBP could contribute to changes in the regulatory process of inflammatory mediators observed in elders. The aim of this study was to compare plasma levels of interleukin(IL)-6, soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 1(sTNF-R1), and functionality among 3 groups of elderly women: GI, with LBP; GII, without LBP but reports of other pain; and GIII, without any reported pain.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

This was an observational study of a subsample of the international Back Complaints in the Elders cohort study. IL-6 and sTNF-R1 were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Functionality was assessed using the Timed Up and Go, gait speed and Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire; and pain, using the numerical pain scale.

RESULTS

Two hundred and thirteen women aged 71.35 ± 4.76 years were included. GI presented the highest sTNF-R1 levels (p=0.016), worst TUG performance (p< 0.001) and slowest gait speed (p< 0.01) compared to GII and GIII, which were similar (p > 0.05). No difference was found between the IL-6 plasma levels in any of the groups.

CONCLUSION

Elderly women with LBP had the highest sTNF-R1 plasma levels and the worst functional performance compared to elderly women with reports of other pain (not LBP) or no pain.

Prevalence of low back pain in older Brazilians: a systematic review with meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Prevalence of low back pain (LBP) is expected to increase worldwide with aging of the population but its prevalence in older people is not clear, mainly in developing countries.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of LBP in older Brazilians.

METHODS

Electronic searches on SciELO, LILACS, MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL, as well as hand-searching identified studies investigating prevalence of LBP in older Brazilians aged 60 years or over. Two independent reviewers selected studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria, assessed risk of bias for each included study and extracted relevant data. Meta-analysis was conducted when enough homogeneity allowed and the GRADE system was used to summarize the overall quality of the evidence.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies were included with a total of 28,448 participants. Data from point- and period-prevalence of LBP were obtained. Meta-analysis was conducted for 13 studies reporting point-prevalence. Pooled point-prevalence of LBP was 25.0% (95% CI 18.0-32.0). Other three studies investigated period-prevalence: one-week prevalence=15.0% (95% CI 13.0-18.0); six-month prevalence=43.0% (95% CI 42.0-44.0); and 12-month prevalence=13.0% (95% CI 11.0-16.0). Sensitivity analyses were performed for point-prevalence and exclusion of studies with poorer methodological quality tended to increase the estimated prevalence of LBP.

CONCLUSION

Moderate-quality evidence showed that at any point in time one in four older Brazilians suffers from LBP. This was the first systematic review investigating nationwide data on the prevalence of LBP in older people and contributes important clinical and epidemiological evidence for policymakers.

The geriatric depression scale and the timed up and go test predict fear of falling in community-dwelling elderly women with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study

Background

Fear of falling is a common and potentially disabling problem among older adults. However, little is known about this condition in older adults with diabetes mellitus. The aims of this study were to investigate the impact of the fear of falling on clinical, functional and gait variables in older women with type 2 diabetes and to identify which variables could predict the fear of falling in this population.

Methods

Ninety-nine community-dwelling older women with type 2 diabetes (aged 65 to 89 years) were stratified in two groups based on their Falls Efficacy Scale-International score. Participants with a score < 23 were assigned to the group without the fear of falling (n = 50) and those with a score ≥ 23 were assigned to the group with the fear of falling (n = 49). Clinical data included demographics, anthropometrics, number of diseases and medications, physical activity level, fall history, frailty level, cognition, depressive symptoms, fasting glucose level and disease duration. Functional measures included the Timed Up and Go test (TUG), the five times sit-to-stand test (5-STS) and handgrip strength. Gait parameters were obtained using the GAITRite® system.

Results

Participants with a fear of falling were frailer and presented more depressive symptoms and worse performance on the TUG and 5-STS tests compared with those without a fear of falling. The group with the fear of falling also walked with a lower velocity, cadence and step length and increased step time and swing time variability. The multivariate regression analysis showed that the likelihood of having a fear of falling increased 1.34 times (OR 1.34, 95 % CI 1.11–1.61) for a one-point increase in the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) score and 1.36 times (OR 1.36, 95 % CI 1.07–1.73) for each second of increase in the TUG performance.

Conclusions

The fear of falling in community-dwelling older women with type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with frailty, depressive symptoms and dynamic balance, functional mobility and gait deficits. Furthermore, both the GDS-15 and the TUG test predict a fear of falling in this population. Therefore, these instruments should be considered during the assessment of diabetic older women with fear of falling.

Prevalence of sarcopenia in older Brazilians: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

Sarcopenia is the age-related loss of muscle mass and function that evolves into disability, loss of independence and death. In Brazil the number of older people is rapidly growing, resulting in an increased prevalence of chronic conditions associated with old age. As prevalence estimates provide essential information to policymakers when developing healthcare strategies, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of sarcopenia in older Brazilians.

METHODS

Electronic database searches and hand-searching in relevant journals and reference lists were carried out without language restriction. Studies that reported the prevalence of sarcopenia in Brazilians aged 60 years or older were considered for inclusion. Sarcopenia was defined as low muscle mass, low muscle function or low muscle mass and function. Meta-analysis was carried out using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

A total of 31 studies were included pooling 9416 participants. The overall prevalence of sarcopenia in older Brazilians was 17.0% (95% CI 13.0-22.0). Sensitivity analysis showed rates of 20.0% (95% CI 11.0-32.0) in women and 12.0% (95% CI 9.0-16.0) in men. Prevalence was 16.0% (95% CI 12.0-23.0) based on low muscle mass and function; and 17.0% (95% CI 9.0-31.0) based only on low muscle mass. The difference between these two criteria was not significant (P = 0.96).

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia is an emerging public health issue in Brazil. Attention should be paid to changes in prevalence rates over the next years because of the increase in the older population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 5-16.

Prevalência de sarcopenia em idosos: resultados de estudos transversais amplos em diferentes países

ResumoA sarcopenia caracteriza-se pela perda generalizada e progressiva da força e massa muscular esquelética com o envelhecimento. Com o aumento da população idosa em ritmo acelerado em todo o mundo, torna-se necessário o maior entendimento dos fenômenos associados ao processo de envelhecimento. Portanto, descrever a frequência e distribuição desses fenômenos, tal como a sarcopenia, é um passo fundamental para se conhecer os componentes atrelados a sua ocorrência e promover a assistência à saúde direcionada ao idoso. O objetivo desta revisão de literatura foi apresentar a síntese dos resultados de estudos epidemiológicos de base populacional sobre a prevalência de sarcopenia em idosos da comunidade, mostrando também as características sociodemográficas das populações estudadas e a diferença dos resultados entre os sexos. Os resultados de seis estudos transversais, entre os anos 2002 e 2014, provenientes dos seguintes países: Estados Unidos, Reino Unido, Brasil, Japão, Coreia do Sul e Taiwan, foram apresentados. Verificou-se neles que a sarcopenia tem alta prevalência na população a partir dos 60 anos de idade, em ambos os sexos, sendo mais alta nas mulheres em cinco dos seis trabalhos. O Japão foi o país que apresentou as maiores taxas de prevalência, seguido pelo Brasil. A sarcopenia aumentou com a idade em todos os estudos e esteve associada com várias adversidades. A dificuldade em se estabelecer uma avaliação padronizada para sarcopenia, sobretudo pelas peculiaridades de cada população, constitui um importante fator a ser analisado na leitura de estudos de prevalência sobre essa síndrome.

Adherence of older women with strength training and aerobic exercise

Background

Participation of older people in a program of regular exercise is an effective strategy to minimize the physical decline associated with age. The purpose of this study was to assess adherence rates in older women enrolled in two different exercise programs (one aerobic exercise and one strength training) and identify any associated clinical or functional factors.

Methods

This was an exploratory observational study in a sample of 231 elderly women of mean age 70.5 years. We used a structured questionnaire with standardized tests to evaluate the relevant clinical and functional measures. A specific adherence questionnaire was developed by the researchers to determine motivators and barriers to exercise adherence.

Results

The adherence rate was 49.70% in the aerobic exercise group and 56.20% in the strength training group. Multiple logistic regression models for motivation were significant (P=0.003) for the muscle strengthening group (R²=0.310) and also significant (P=0.008) for the aerobic exercise group (R²=0.154). A third regression model for barriers to exercise was significant (P=0.003) only for the muscle strengthening group (R²=0.236). The present study shows no direct relationship between worsening health status and poor adherence.

Conclusion

Factors related to adherence with exercise in the elderly are multifactorial.

[Prevalence of frailty and associated factors in community-dwelling elderly in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil: data from the FIBRA study]

The prevalence of frailty varies greatly and has received insufficient attention in developing countries. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of frailty and associated factors among the elderly in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Clinical, functional, and socio-demographic factors were analyzed. An ordinal regression model was used to verify conditions associated with frailty and to determine odds ratios ( α= 0.05). Prevalence rates were 46.3% for pre-frailty was 8.7% for weakness. Pre-frail and frail elderly, respectively, showed higher and increasing odds ratios for dependency in instrumental activities of daily living; restrictions in advanced activities of daily living; use of walking aids; comorbidities; falls; depressive symptoms; lower self-efficacy in preventing falls; hospitalization; and advanced age. The study identified a high percentage of frail states associated with higher odds of adverse health conditions, especially related to disability.

Self-reported chronic pain is associated with physical performance in older people leaving aged care rehabilitation

Background/objectives

The impact of pain on the physical performance of patients in aged care rehabilitation is not known. The study sought to assess 1) the prevalence of pain in older people being discharged from inpatient rehabilitation; 2) the association between self-reported pain and physical performance in people being discharged from inpatient rehabilitation; and 3) the association between self-reported pain and physical performance in this population, after adjusting for potential confounding factors.

Methods

This was an observational cross-sectional study of 420 older people at two inpatient aged care rehabilitation units. Physical performance was assessed using the Lower Limb Summary Performance Score. Pain was assessed with questions about the extent to which participants were troubled by pain, the duration of symptoms, and the impact of chronic pain on everyday activity. Depression and the number of comorbidities were assessed by questionnaire and medical file audit. Cognition was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination.

Results

Thirty percent of participants reported chronic pain (pain lasting more than 3 months), and 17% reported that this pain interfered with daily activities to a moderate or greater extent. Chronic pain (P=0.013) and chronic pain affecting daily activities (P<0.001) were associated with a poorer Lower Limb Summary Performance Score. The relationship between chronic pain affecting daily activities and Lower Limb Summary Performance Score remained significant (P=0.001) after adjusting for depression, age, comorbidities, and Mini-Mental State Examination score. This model explained 10% of the variability in physical performance.

Conclusion

One-third of participants reported chronic pain, and close to one-fifth reported that this pain interfered with daily activities. Chronic pain was associated with impaired physical performance, and this relationship persisted after adjusting for likely confounding factors.

Pain, kinesiophobia and quality of life in chronic low back pain and depression

OBJECTIVE:

To describe the characteristics of pain, kinesiophobia and quality of life in patients with chronic low back pain and depression.

METHODS:

Cross-sectional study in which 193 individuals with chronic low back pain were included. The presence of depression was measured by the Beck Depression Inventory, using a cutoff validated by the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview. The intensity and quality of pain in the groups with and without depression were assessed by the McGill Questionnaire. The Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia was applied to assess fear of movement. With respect to quality of life, the Medical Outcomes Study 36 was used. The statistical significance level was set at p <0.05.

RESULTS:

The prevalence of depression was 32.1%. The group with depression had worse scores in relation to pain, kinesiophobia and quality of life (physical functioning, rolephysical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health.

CONCLUSION:

Patients with low back pain and depression had higher pain intensity, greater fear of movement and poorer quality of life. Level of Evidence III, Cross-sectional

TNF-α, IL6, and IL10 polymorphisms and the effect of physical exercise on inflammatory parameters and physical performance in elderly women

High levels of inflammatory mediators are associated with reduced physical capabilities and muscle function in the elderly. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may affect the expression and synthesis of these molecules, thus influencing the intensity of the inflammatory response and susceptibility to certain diseases. Physical exercise may attenuate age-related chronic inflammation and improve physical performance. This study evaluated the interaction between the SNP rs1800629 in TNF-α, rs1800795 in IL6, and rs1800896 in IL10 and the effect of physical exercise on physical performance and inflammation in elderly women. There was a significant interaction between rs1800629 and the effect of exercise on physical performance and between the combined 3-SNP genotype and changes in physical performance in response to exercise. These SNPs did not influence the effect of exercise on inflammatory parameters. Elderly women with a combination of genotypes associated with an anti-inflammatory profile (low TNF-α and IL-6 production, high IL-10 production) showed better physical performance independent of exercise modality, evidence of an interactive influence of genetic and environmental factors on improving physical performance in elderly women.

Incapacidade funcional, sintomas depressivos e dor lombar em idosos

INTRODUÇÃO: A dor lombar modifica e limita aspectos tanto físicos quanto psicossociais da vida do idoso, impondo muitas vezes mudanças que causam transtornos pessoais, familiares e redução da capacidade funcional. OBJETIVO: Verificar a prevalência de dor lombar (DL) não específica em uma amostra de idosos da comunidade e determinar a correlação existente entre as variáveis: sexo, índice de massa corpórea (IMC), incapacidade funcional e sintomas depressivos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Participaram deste estudo 54 idosos da comunidade (72 ± 5,2 anos). As características clínicas e sociodemográficas foram avaliadas por meio de questionário semiestruturado e a DL, por meio do Questionário de McGill. Para a medida de incapacidade em indivíduos com disfunções na coluna foi usado o Questionário de Roland Morris - Brasil (RM-BR). Sintomas depressivos e o nível geral de atividade física foram avaliados, respectivamente, por meio da versão reduzida da Escala de Depressão Geriátrica (GDS-15) e pelo Perfil de Atividade Humana. RESULTADOS: Evidenciou-se correlação alta e positiva entre a presença de DL, incapacidade funcional (RM-BR) (rs = 0,774; p = 0,00) e presença de sintomas depressivos (GDS-15) (rs = 0,271; p = 0,048). Nenhuma correlação foi evidenciada entre IMC (rs = 0,178; p = 0,197), sexo (rs = -0,073; p = 0,599) e DL. CONCLUSÃO: Observou-se prevalência alta de DL não específica na amostra de idosos estudada. Incapacidade funcional e depressão são condições fortemente associadas com DL em idosos da comunidade; cabe, portanto, desenvolver outras abordagens a fim de alcançar melhor efetividade das propostas terapêuticas.

Medo de cair e qualidade de vida em idosos com catarata

INTRODUÇÃO: O medo de cair é definido como baixa autoeficácia ou confiança no próprio equilíbrio para evitar quedas, causando declínio no desempenho físico e funcional, alterações no equilíbrio e na marcha dos idosos, tendo impacto negativo na qualidade de vida. Vários estudos têm identificado o déficit visual como fator contributivo para a ocorrência de quedas e do medo de cair em idosos. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a associação entre o medo de cair e as alterações na visão funcional e na qualidade de vida relacionada à visão de idosos com catarata. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de estudo observacional com 139 idosos com catarata (71,4±6,2 anos). A qualidade de vida relacionada à visão foi avaliada pelo Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ) e a preocupação com a possibilidade de quedas foi avaliada pela Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I-Brasil). RESULTADOS: Idosos que relataram algum grau de medo de cair apresentaram médias mais altas na escala FES-I-Brasil, quando comparados aos que não o relataram, indicando maior preocupação com a possibilidade de cair (p=0,000; Kruskal-Wallis). Com relação à visão funcional (VFQ) e à qualidade de vida relacionada à visão, quanto maior o medo de cair, piores eram a visão e a qualidade de vida (p=0,003; Kruskal-Wallis). CONCLUSÃO: Idosos com catarata e com relato de medo de cair apresentaram menor confiança no seu equilíbrio para evitar quedas e pior qualidade na visão funcional e na qualidade de vida relacionada à visão.

Poor correlation between handgrip strength and isokinetic performance of knee flexor and extensor muscles in community-dwelling elderly women

AIM

To investigate the correlation between handgrip strength and performance of knee flexor and extensor muscles determined using an isokinetic dynamometer in community-dwelling elderly women.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study. Sample selection for the study was made by convenience, and 221 (71.07 ± 4.93 years) community-dwelling elderly women were included. Knee flexor and extensor muscle performance was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer Biodex System 3 Pro. The isokinetic variables chosen for analysis were peak torque, peak torque/bodyweight, total work/bodyweight, total work, average power, and agonist/antagonist ratio at the angular velocities of 60°/s and 180°/s. Assessment of handgrip strength was carried out using the Jamar dynamometer. Spearman's correlation coefficient was calculated to identify intervariable correlations.

RESULTS

Only knee flexor peak torque (60°/s) and average power (60°/s), and knee extensor peak torque (180°/s) and total work (180°/s) were significantly (P < 0.05), yet poorly, correlated with handgrip strength (r < 0.30).

CONCLUSION

The majority of analyses did not show any correlation between variables assessed by isokinetic dynamometer and handgrip dynamometer. Caution is required when generalizing handgrip strength as a predictor of global muscle strength in community-dwelling elderly women.