Higher purpose in life and education were associated with better cognition among older adults

BACKGROUND

 With aging, some cognitive abilities change because of neurobiological processes. Cognition may also be influenced by psychosocial aspects.

OBJECTIVE

 To describe the relationship between a measure of neuroticism, depression symptoms, purpose in life, and cognitive performance in community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

 This was a cross-sectional analysis based on the data from the second wave of the Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (FIBRA) study, carried out between 2016 and 2017. The sample consisted of 419 older people (≥ 72 years old) cognitively unimpaired and mostly with low education. The variables of interest were sociodemographic, Neuroticism domain from the NEO-PI-R, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Purpose in Life (PiL) scale, and a cognitive composite score which included the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and the scores for the sub-items of the Mini-Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination (M-ACE), namely, Verbal Fluency (VF) - Animal, Clock Drawing Test (CDT), Episodic Memory (name and address).

RESULTS

 There was a greater number of women (70%), with older age (median = 80 years, IQR = 77-82), and low education (median = 4 years, IQR = 2-5). In the bivariate correlations, years of education (ρ = 0.415; p < 0.001) and PiL (ρ = 0.220; p < 0.001) were positively associated with cognition. Neuroticism (ρ = -0.175; p < 0.001) and depression symptoms (ρ = -0.185; p < 0.001) were negatively associated with cognition. In the logistic regression, after including confounding variables, the associations between cognition and PiL (OR = 2.04; p = 0.007) and education (OR = 1.32; p < 0.001) remained significant.

CONCLUSION

 Low PiL and low education levels were associated with worse cognition among older adults. Such results may be of relevance in programs that aim to improve cognition among older adults.

Frailty and functional status among older adults with cognitive impairment: data from the second wave of the FIBRA study

Frailty is defined as a recognizable state of increased vulnerability resulting from age-associated decline of function in various physiological systems, such that the ability to deal with acute or everyday stressors is compromised.

Objective

The aim of the study was to characterize the sample of older adults with cognitive impairment, according to the frailty status indirectly assessed by family members, other clinical and sociodemographic variables; and to assess the overlap of clinical conditions evaluated in this sample with cognitive impairment.

Methods

Data were extracted from the follow-up database of the Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (FIBRA) study (2016-2017). The sample consisted of 130 elderly people with cognitive impairment assessed by the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). The scores for the Clinical Dementia Scale (CDR), Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia and Functional Activities Questionnaire were described. Frailty was indirectly measured through questions answered by family members about the five criteria that compose the frailty phenotype.

Results

The sample consisted mostly of older women (n=91) with a mean age of 82.4 (SD=5.3) years, mean schooling of 3.3 years (SD=3.07), widowed (47.7%) and who lived with children and/or grandchildren (68%). More than half had multimorbidity (74.90%), 39.5% had depression symptoms suggestive of major depression, 57% had impaired functionality, 49.3% were frail, 37.6% pre-frail, and 13.10% robust.

Conclusion

Among older adults with cognitive impairment, frailty and functional limitations are common.

Relationship between chronic pain, depressive symptoms, and functional disability in community-dwelling older adults: mediating role of frailty

BACKGROUND

Borim et al. showed that older adults with chronic pain exhibited more depressive symptoms and frailty components. Depressive symptoms were associated with more frailty components, and those with more depressive symptoms and frailty faced greater limitations in IADL performance. Frailty appears to mediate the pathway from chronic pain to functional impairment Chronic pain is directly associated with depressive symptoms and frailty. Chronic pain is not directly associated with functional disability. Depression and frailty are both directly associated with functional disabilities. Frailty mediates the association between chronic pain and functional disability. Depression; Disability evaluation; Frailty; Frail elderly.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the direct and indirect effects of chronic pain, depressive symptoms, frailty components, and functional disability through a pathway analysis approach in a sample of community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

Data of 419 participants were cross-sectionally evaluated for the presence of depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale [15 items]), physical frailty components (phenotype criteria), chronic pain, and limitations in performing instrumental activities of daily living (functional disability scale by Lawton and Brody). Structural equation modeling via path analysis was used to explore the direct and indirect effects among these four variables. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

RESULTS

Of the total participants, 69.8% were women and 59.3% had low education (1-4 years); the mean age was 80.3±4.6 years. Chronic pain and depressive symptoms were directly related and were associated to frailty. The number of frailty components and depressive symptoms were directly associated with functional disability. Frailty had an indirect effect on the association between chronic pain, depressive symptoms, and functional disabilities.

CONCLUSION

The pathway from chronic pain and depressive symptoms to functional disability is potentially mediated by the number of frailty components.

[Loneliness and its association with sociodemographic and health indicators in Brazilian adults and older adults: ELSI-Brazil]

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of loneliness and its associations with sociodemographic and health indicators in a nationally representative sample of Brazilian adults and older adults. Data from the baseline (2015-2016) of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil) were analyzed, and participants with complete information on the variables of interest (n = 7,957) were included. Loneliness was the outcome variable, which was based on the question "How often do you feel alone or lonely: always, sometimes, or never?" Independent variables included sociodemographic indicators and health behaviors and conditions. The analyses included the Pearson's chi-square test for calculating relative frequencies, and Poisson regression for estimating prevalence ratios (PR) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The prevalence of always feeling lonely was 16.8%; sometimes, 31.7%; and never, 51.5%. Significant associations were observed between always feeling lonely and depression (PR = 4.49; 95%CI: 3.93-5.11), living alone (PR = 2.44; 95%CI: 2.12-2.82), low education level (PR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.61-2.32), being a woman (PR = 1.53; 95%CI: 1.36-1.72), self-rated poor/very poor health (PR = 1.48; 95%CI: 1.27-1.73), and poor/very poor sleep quality (PR = 1.21; 95%CI: 1.05-1.41). Given its potential to harm quality of life, it is necessary to longitudinally understand the trajectories of loneliness and associated variables, and to use this knowledge to design public policies and health interventions that could benefit the biopsychosocial well-being of Brazilian adults and older adults.

[Influence of multimorbidity patterns on the activities in the day-to-day lives of the elderly: nine-year follow-up of the Fibra Study]

The scope of this article was to evaluate the influence of multimorbidity and associated effects on the activities in the day-to-day lives of community-dwelling elderly individuals. It involved a cohort study with data from the FIBRA Study, the baseline (2008-2009) and follow-up (2016-2017). The basic activities in daily living (ADL) were evaluated using Katz's index, and the chronic diseases were classified as: (1) multimorbidity and multimorbidity patterns; (2) cardiopulmonary; (3) vascular-metabolic; and (4) mental-musculoskeletal. The chi-square test and Poisson regression data were used for analysis. A total of 861 older adults with no functional dependency at baseline were analyzed. Elderly individuals with multimorbidity (RR = 1.58; 95%CI: 1.19-2.10) and classified according to cardiopulmonary (RR = 2.43; 95%CI: 1.77-3.33), vascular-metabolic (RR = 1.50; 95%CI: 1.19-1.89) and mental-musculoskeletal (RR = 1.30; 95%CI: 1.03-1.65) had a higher risk of presenting functional decline in ADL in the follow-up compared to those who didn't have the same disease patterns. Multimorbidity and its patterns increased the risk of functional disability in older adults over the nine-year period.

Cognitive Impairment Predicts Sarcopenia 9 Years Later Among Older Adults

OBJECTIVE

To assess the longitudinal association between cognitive impairment and sarcopenia in a sample of Brazilian community-dwelling older adults.

DESIGN

Nine-year observational prospective study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A total of 521 community-dwelling older adults from 2 Brazilian sites of the Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (FIBRA in Portuguese) study.

METHODS

Sarcopenia was defined as low hand-grip strength and low muscle mass. Cognitive impairment was determined at baseline using the Mini-Mental State Examination, with education-adjusted cutoff scores. The logistic regression model was used to assess the association between cognitive impairment and incident sarcopenia after adjusting for gender, age, education, morbidities, physical activity, and body mass index. Inverse probability weighting was applied to correct for sample loss at follow-up.

RESULTS

The mean age of the study population was 72.7 (±5.6) years, and 365 were women (70.1%). Being 80 years and older (odds ratio [OR], 4.62; 95% CI, 1.38-15.48; P = .013), being under- and overweight (OR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.11-0.76; P = .012, and OR, 5.12; 95% CI, 2.18-12.01; P < .001, respectively) and having cognitive impairment (OR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.18-5.04; P = .016) at baseline predicted sarcopenia after 9 years.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Cognitive impairment may predict sarcopenia in Brazilian older adults. More studies are necessary to identify the main mechanisms shared by sarcopenia and cognitive decline, which could support the development of prevention interventions.

Self-assessed masticatory function and frailty in Brazilian older adults: the FIBRA Study

OBJETIVE

To investigate the relationship between the masticatory function and the frailty of older people.

METHODS

Exploratory cross-sectional study using secondary data from the FIBRA Project on the frailty conditions of older people living in urban areas of six Brazilian municipalities, from 2008 to 2009. The population consisted of older adults aged 65 and over with no cognitive impairment. A single session identification questionnaire and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) were applied, followed by collecting sociodemographic data and data on the participants' self-assessment of masticatory function, general health, and oral health.

RESULTS

2,341 older people (164 frail older adults), of whom 63.2% reported not having seen a dentist in the last year, and approximately 26% of them had three or more functional feeding problems. Older participants (OR = 2.88; 95%CI: 2.01-4.13), who are retired (OR = 2.31; 95%CI: 1.18-5.53), those who were depressed (OR = 2.31; 95%CI: 1.58-3.38), and those who self-assessed their general health as worse compared to others of the same age (OR = 3.91; 95%CI: 2.39-6.40) were at higher risk of frailty. Three or more problems related to the functional aspects of mastication were associated with a greater chance of frailty (OR = 2.06; 95%CI: 1.25-3.41).

CONCLUSION

This study found an association between masticatory function and a greater chance of frailty among the studied population.

Number of ideas in spontaneous speech predicts cognitive impairment and frailty in community-dwelling older adults nine years later

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the associations between linguistic parameters in spontaneous speech at baseline and cognitive impairment and frailty nine years later.

METHODS

A prospective analysis was carried out on data of the Frailty in Brazilian Older People Study (FIBRA) Study, a population-based study on frailty. From a probabilistic sample of 384 individuals aged 65 and older at baseline (2008-2009), 124 aged 73 years and older at follow-up were selected, as they had scored above the cutoff values of cognitive screening for dementia adjusted by years of schooling at baseline and had answered to the question What is healthy aging and had no frailty at baseline. Verbal responses were submitted to content analysis and had its ideas and words counted. Number of ideas corresponded to the frequency of meaning categories and number of words to all identified significant textual elements in the text constituted by the sample answers to that question.

RESULTS

Multivariate logistic regression analyses, controlling for the effects of age, sex, and education, showed that individuals with a high number of ideas at baseline had lower chance of having cognitive impairment (OR = 0.39; 95% CI 0.22 - 0.69) and frailty (OR 0.66; 95% CI 0.44 - 0.99) nine years later than those with low number of ideas.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher number of ideas, but not number of words, in spontaneous speech seems to be associated to a more positive prognosis in mental and physical health nine years later. Linguistic markers may be used to predict cognitive impairment and frailty in older individuals.

Functional dentition and associated factors

Studying the different indicators of functional dentition classification can contribute to the understanding of the associated factors, and thus help in the definition of strategies associated with oral health care. This approach has been little explored in the literature, especially when considering the older age group. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the factors associated with three distinct functional dentition classification. Methods: Crosssectional exploratory study using secondary data from the Frailty in Older Brazilians (FIBRA) Project of 876 older adults living in Campinas, Brazil. The indicators of dental function assessed was number of natural teeth present, occluding pairs of teeth and the Eichner index, which were verified by trained dentists, following the World Health Organization criteria for epidemiological studies in oral health. The explanatory variable assessed was the selfperception of oral health-related quality of life measured by the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) and its dimensions. It was also collected sociodemographic information such as age, gender, race/ethnicity, schooling, family income, smoking behavior and frailty status. The association was verified through Poisson regressions for number of teeth and pairs of teeth in occlusion and multinomial regression for the Eichner index, adjusted by sociodemographic and health variables. Results: Lower prevalence of participants with less than 21 teeth who negatively perceived GOHAI´s pain and discomfort dimension and higher prevalence of having less teeth among the ones that negatively perceived GOHAI´s physical and functional dimensions. No association was found between the perception of quality of life and occlusion pairs of teeth and the Eichner Index. Conclusion: Two out of three indicators assessed were associated with quality of life. Therefore, it is important to select sensitive indicators to be able to identify and better comprehend this relationship.

Prevalence of chronic diseases in octogenarians: data from the National Health Survey 2019

This article aims to estimate the prevalence of chronic diseases/conditions in octogenarians according to sex, age groups and private health insurance, and its relationship with difficulty in performing usual activities. Cross-sectional population-based study with elderly data (n = 6,098) from the National Health Survey (PNS) 2019. Prevalences and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. The prevalences were: hypertension 61.7%, chronic back problem 30.0%, hypercholesterolemia 22.0%, diabetes 20.3%; arthritis/rheumatism 19.4%, heart disease 19.3%, depression 9.4%, cancer 8.9%, cerebrovascular accident (CA) 7.5%, asthma 4.9%, lung disease (LD) 4.2% and kidney failure (KF) 3.0%. Hypertension, chronic back problem, hypercholesterolemia, major arthritis/rheumatism and depression in women, and cancer in men. Major heart disease, hypercholesterolemia, arthritis/rheumatism, KF, cancer and depression in those with private health insurance. Restriction of usual activities 14.8%, more frequent in cardiac patients, with chronic back problem, arthritis/rheumatism, KF, depression, CA, cancer and LD. There were higher prevalences in women and in those who have health insurance. Difficulties in usual activities related to diseases demand the expansion of care for the older adults.

Relationships between self-reported dyspnea, health conditions and frailty among Brazilian community-dwelling older adults: a cross-sectional study

CONTEXT

Dyspnea is a symptom present in several chronic diseases commonly seen among older adults. Since individuals with dyspnea tend to stay at rest, with consequently reduced levels of physical activity, they are likely to be at greater risk of developing frailty, especially at older ages.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross-sectional study at community level, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the relationships between self-reported dyspnea, health conditions and frailty status in a sample of community-dwelling older adults.

METHOD

Secondary data from the follow-up of the Frailty in Brazilian Elderly (FIBRA) study, involving 415 community-dwelling older adults (mean age: 80.3 ± 4.68 years), were used. The variables analyzed were sociodemographic characteristics, reported dyspnea, clinical data and frailty phenotype. Associations between dyspnea and other variables (age, sex, education and body mass index) were verified through the crude (c) and adjusted (a) odds ratios.

RESULTS

The prevalence of dyspnea in the entire sample was 21.0%. Dyspnea was more present in individuals with pulmonary diseases, heart disease, cancer and depression. Older adults with multimorbidities (adjusted odds ratio, ORa = 2.91; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.41-5.99) and polypharmacy (ORa = 2.02; 95% CI = 1.15-3.54) were more likely to have dyspnea. Those who reported dyspnea were 2.54 times more likely to be frail (ORa = 2.54; 95% CI = 1.08-5.97), and fatigue was their most prevalent phenotype component.

CONCLUSION

Dyspnea was associated with different diseases, multimorbidities, polypharmacy and frailty. Recognizing the factors associated with dyspnea may contribute to its early identification and prevention of its negative outcomes among older adults.

Depressive symptoms, symptoms of insomnia and stressful events in hypertensive older adults: Cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

the aim of this study was to determine whether symptoms of insomnia and intensity of stressful life events are independently associated with depressive symptoms in community-dwelling hypertensive older adults.

METHODS

this was an observational cross-sectional study. Participants were 438 older adults with arterial hypertension who completed questionnaires about depressive symptoms, stressful events, self-reported symptoms of insomnia and socio-demographic characteristics. Cluster analysis was performed to obtain groups according to insomnia symptoms. The following groups were identified: Poor Sleep Quality, Early Waking and Good Sleep Quality. Associations were tested using linear regression analysis and multiple Poisson regression analysis.

RESULTS

The factors that independently contributed to the increase of depressive symptoms were belonging to the Poor Sleep Quality group (p<.001) and Early Waking group (p=.005), reporting higher intensity of stressful life events (p<.001) and having less schooling (p=.003).

CONCLUSION

older adults with hypertension need a comprehensive approach to their health care that considers depressive symptoms and their relationship with intensity of stressful events, insomnia symptoms and schooling.

Eating Behavior of Older Adults with and Without Diabetes: The Vigitel Survey, Brazil, 2016

BACKGROUND

A healthy diet is a protection factor against type 2 diabetes and plays an important role in the treatment of the disease, as well as associated comorbidities.

OBJECTIVE

Characterize the eating habits of older adults (≥ 65 years) with and without diabetes residing in capital cities and the Federal District of Brazil.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Surveillance of Risk and Protection Factors for Chronic Diseases Through a Telephone Survey (Vigitel, 2016). The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was estimated according to sociodemographic variables, physical inactivity level, self-rated health status and body mass index. Dietary habits were assessed based on the frequency (weekly and daily) of consumption of healthy and unhealthy foods and the replacement of food by snacks. Differences were determined using Pearson's chi-square test (Rao-Scott), with the significance level set at 5%.

RESULTS

A total of 13,649 older adults were interviewed. The prevalence of self-reported diabetes was 27.2% (95% CI: 25.5; 29.0). Compared to non-diabetics, diabetic individuals had a higher consumption of raw vegetables (32.1% vs. 26.5%/3-4 days/week) and lower consumption of chicken (3.8% vs. 6.4%/hardly ever/never), fruit juice (24.0% vs. 29.6%) and sweets (6.8% vs. 16.2%) ≥ 5 days/week. Compared to non-diabetics, diabetic individuals consumed more skim milk (51.5% vs. 44.6%) and diet soda (60.0% vs. 17.3%) ≥ 5 days/week, raw vegetables (9.1% vs. 2.5%/at dinner) and sweets (37.7% vs. 20.5%/twice/day) 3-4 days/week.

CONCLUSION

The observed differences emphasize the need for healthy eating interventions for all older adults, as well as specific counseling for those with diabetes.

Can Social Resources Explain the Limitations in the Activities of Daily Living of Older Adults Classified by the Phenotype of Physical Frailty?

The objective is to investigate the mediating roles of living alone and personal network in the relationship between physical frailty and activities of daily living (ADL) limitations among older adults. 2271 individuals were classified as vulnerable (pre-frail or frail) or robust. Mediating variables were living alone and personal network. Katz Index and Lawton-Brody scale were used to assess ADL. Mediating effects were analyzed with beta coefficients from linear regression models using the bootstrapping method. Mediation analysis showed significant mediating effects of living alone (β = .011; 95% CI = .004; .018) and personal network (β = .005; 95% CI = .001; .010) on the relationship between physical frailty and basic ADL limitations. Mediation effects of living alone and personal network on the relationship between physical frailty and instrumental ADL limitations were β = -.074 (95% CI=-.101; -.046) and β = -.044 (95% CI = -.076; -.020), respectively. Physically vulnerable older adults who lived alone or had poor personal network were more dependent on basic and instrumental ADL.

Propósito de vida e desempenho de atividades avançadas de vida diária em idosos mais velhos

Resumo Objetivo Verificar a associação entre propósito de vida (PV) e a realização de atividades avançadas e instrumentais de vida diária (AAVD e AIVD) em idosos. Método Estudo de corte transversal com participantes da avaliação de seguimento do estudo FIBRA (Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros) nas cidades de Campinas e Ermelino Matarazzo (SP), Brasil, nos anos de 2016 e 2017. Participaram 187 idosos com 80 anos e mais recrutados em domicílios familiares. O protocolo incluiu a aplicação de um teste de rastreio de deficit cognitivo sugestivo de demência, escala para avaliação das AAVD, a Escala de Lawton e Brody avaliando AIVD, a Escala de Depressão Geriátrica e a Escala de Propósito de Vida de Ryff e Keyes (1995). Resultados Os participantes tinham em média 83,81 (±3,60) anos, 4,38 (±3,76) anos de escolaridade e tinham renda mensal média de 3,49 salários mínimos (±2,61) e 125 (66,8%) eram mulheres. Análises de regressão hierárquica mostraram associações estatisticamente significativas entre PV, sintomas depressivos e pontuação mais alta em AAVD (p=0,003) e sem associação significativa com AIVD (0,580), em modelo ajustado para variáveis sociodemográficas, avaliação subjetiva de saúde, desempenho cognitivo e depressão. Conclusões Os idosos com maior escore de PV e menor número de sintomas depressivos foram mais propensos a realizar AAVD, mas não AIVD, que se associaram à idade, sexo, sintomas depressivos e desempenho cognitivo. PV pode colaborar para a manutenção do estado funcional no idoso, contribuindo para um envelhecimento saudável.

Perda de função mastigatória e risco de fragilidade em idosos vivendo em domicílios familiares no Estado de São Paulo

Resumo Objetivo Verificar se a perda de função mastigatória aumenta o risco de fragilidade em idosos vivendo em domicílios familiares no Estado de São Paulo. Métodos Foi adotado um delineamento de coorte prospectivo sobre a base de dados do estudo FIBRA (Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros), com linha de base realizada em 2008-2009 e seguimento em 2016-2018, transcorrendo em média 100,2 ± 9,2 meses. A variável desfecho foi a incidência de fragilidade, a variável de exposição foi a função mastigatória conforme a condição de edentulismo e autorrelato de dificuldade mastigatória. As variáveis de ajuste foram condições sociodemográficas, comportamentais e de saúde geral. Foi utilizado um modelo de regressão de Poisson, com variância robusta, estimando o risco relativo Resultados a incidência acumulada de fragilidade aos oito anos em média foi de 30 casos a cada 100 participantes edêntulos com dificuldade mastigatória, que apresentaram maior risco de desenvolver fragilidade (RR:1,75 IC 95% 1,09-2,81) do que os idosos dentados sem dificuldade mastigatória, independentemente de tabagismo (RR: 1,71 IC 95% 1,07-2,73) e de condição socioeconômica (RR: 1,72 IC 95% 1,13-2,62). Conclusão A perda de função mastigatória aumentou o risco de fragilidade em idosos.Futuras pesquisas deverão estudar se a reabilitação da função mastigatória contribui para diminuir esse risco.

Purpose in life and performance of advanced activities of daily living among the oldest old

Abstract Objective To verify the association between purpose in life (PL) and the performance in advanced (AADL) and instrumental (IADL) activities of daily living. Methods Cross-sectional community-based study which analyzed data from the follow-up assessment of the FIBRA Study (Frailty in Elderly Brazilians) in the cities of Campinas and Ermelino Matarazzo (SP), Brazil, in 2016 and 2017. Participants were 187 community dwelling persons aged 80 years and older. The protocol included the application of a cognitive deficit screening test suggestive of dementia, an inventory assessing AADL, the Lawton and Brody scale (IADL), the Geriatric Depression Scale and the Ryff and Keyes’ (1995) Purpose in Life Scale. Results Participants had an average of 83.81 (±3.60) years, 4.38 (± 3.76) years of schooling, 3.49 minimum wages (±2.61) of income, 125 (66.8%) being women. Hierarchical linear regression analyzes showed that PV and depressive symptoms were significantly associated with a higher number of AADL (p=0.003) and no significant association with IADL scores (0.580), in a model adjusted for sociodemographic variables, self-rated health, cognitive performance and depression. Conclusions The results suggest that older adults with higher PL and lower number of depression symptoms are more likely to perform a higher number of AADL. This association was not observed for IADL, which were associated with age, sex, depression and cognitive performance. PL may have an impact on complex levels of functional status in the elderly, thus contributing to healthy aging.

Masticatory function loss and frailty risk in community-dwelling older people in the State of São Paulo

Abstract Objective To verify if the loss of masticatory function increases the risk of frailty in community-dwelling older people in the state of São Paulo. Methods A prospective cohort design was adopted based on the FIBRA study database (Fragility in Brazilian Elderly), with a baseline performed in 2008-2009 and follow-up in 2016-2018, elapsed on average 100.2 ± 9.2 months. The outcome variable was the incidence of frailty. The exposure variable was masticatory function according to edentulism and self-reported chewing difficulty. Adjustment variables were sociodemographic, behavioral, and general health conditions. A Poisson regression model with robust variance was used to estimate the relative risk. Results the cumulative incidence of frailty over eight years was 30 cases per 100 edentulous participants with chewing difficulties, who had a higher risk of developing frailty (RR: 1.75 95% CI 1.09-2.81) than the dentate elderly without chewing difficulties, regardless of smoking (RR: 1.71 95% CI 1.07-2.73) and socioeconomic status (RR: 1.72 95% CI 1.13-2.62) Conclusion Loss of masticatory function increases the risk of frailty in older people. Future research should study whether the rehabilitation of oral function reduces this risk.

Chronic non-communicable diseases considering sociodemographic determinants in a cohort of older adults

Abstract Objective To analyze the differences between the proportions of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) at two time periods, in a cohort of older adults, based on sociodemographic determinants. Method This is a retrospective longitudinal study with baseline data obtained in 2008-2009 and follow-up in 2016-2017, from the FIBRA Study. The McNemar test was used to compare the frequencies of CNCDs according to sex, age, and education, with a significance level of 5% (p<0.05). Results The sample consisted of 453 older adults (mean age 72±5.2 years old; 69.4% women). There was an increase in the proportions of arterial hypertension (64.4% versus 71.1%) and diabetes mellitus (21.9% versus 27.5%) in the periods studied, and a reduction in rheumatologic disease (43.6% versus 35.8%) and depression (21.7% versus 15.7%). Hypertension increased in older women, in those aged 65-74 years old and those with low education levels. Diabetes increased in older men, in those over 65 years of age and those with low education levels. A reduction in the proportions of rheumatologic diseases and depression was observed in women, in those aged 65-74 years old and those with low education levels. Conclusion The data reflect the need to understand the sociodemographic health determinants involved in the health-disease-care process to reduce social inequities and the burden of CNCDs in the most vulnerable population segments, especially in the older adult population with multimorbidity.

Estabilidade e mudança em medidas prospectivas de satisfação com a vida em idosos: Estudo Fibra

Resumo Objetivo Investigar a incidência e variáveis associadas à estabilidade e à mudança da satisfação com a vida (SV) em medidas de linha de base (LB) e seguimento (SG) realizadas a um intervalo de nove anos, em idosos recrutados na comunidade. Método Estudo longitudinal prospectivo com dados da LB (2008-2009) e do SG (2016-2017) do Estudo Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros, envolvendo 360 idosos com 71,7±5,0 anos na LB (68,9% mulheres). Foram calculadas associações entre variáveis sociodemográficas, indicadores objetivos e subjetivos de saúde e variáveis psicossociais em LB e a incidência de estabilidade e mudança em SV no SG. Resultados Nove anos depois da LB, foram observadas: maior incidência de estabilidade (61,1%) do que de piora (26,4%) ou melhora (12,5%) da SV; menor incidência de piora no grupo de 80 anos e mais do que no de 70 a 79; maior incidência de mudança do que estabilidade da SV entre os idosos com multimorbidades e com pontuação > 6 em sintomas depressivos; maior incidência de piora da SV entre os idosos com baixos níveis de autoavaliação de saúde (risco relativo; RR=2,26) e de satisfação com a memória (RR=2,33). Conclusões A incidência de estabilidade em SV em idosos foi mais frequente do que a de piora ou melhora. Indicadores subjetivos de saúde física e satisfação com a memória podem ser sinalizadores de deterioração em bem-estar no tempo e sintomas depressivos de instabilidade nas avaliações, possivelmente acompanhando a redução ou o aumento da SV. Foi observada considerável heterogeneidade nas manifestações de SV entre idosos.

Burden, family functioning, and psychological health of older caregivers of older adults: a path analysis

Objectives: To evaluate an explanatory model of direct and indirect associations regarding the psychological health of older caregivers of functionally dependent older adults. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study performed with older caregivers recruited in contexts of outpatient and home care. We collected information on sociodemographic characteristics, duration of caregiving, physical and cognitive function indicators of the older care recipients, perceived burden, family functioning, and psychological health measures (psychological need satisfaction and depressive symptoms). Results: We evaluated 133 caregivers (76% female, 69.5 ± 6.98 years). Variables that were significantly correlated with psychological health were selected to form an association model to be tested by structural equation modeling via path analysis. Depressive symptom variability was best explained by this model. Caregiver burden remained in the model as a mediator of indirect associations between physical function for instrumental activities of daily living and indicators of family functioning and psychological health. Three associative paths between caregiver burden and depressive symptoms were found — one of them was direct and the other two were mediated whether by family functioning or by the level of psychological need satisfaction. Conclusion: Depressive symptoms were the psychological health indicator best explained by the model involving instrumental functional demands that generate burden. Clinical consequences suggested by the model indicate interventions aimed at family functioning and opportunities of psychological need satisfaction as strategies for promoting caregivers’ psychological health.

Avaliação de seguimento do Estudo Fibra: caracterização sociodemográfica, cognitiva e de fragilidade dos idosos em Campinas e Ermelino Matarazzo, SP

Resumo Objetivo Investigar e comparar o perfil sociodemográfico, cognitivo e de fragilidade dos participantes do Estudo Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros em medidas de seguimento (SG) e linha de base (LB) realizadas em 2016-2017 e 2008-2009, respectivamente. Métodos Participaram da LB 1.284 idosos residentes em Campinas e Ermelino Matarazzo (SP), Brasil, que compuseram amostra única. No SG foram novamente entrevistados 549 participantes (42,5%); 192 tinham falecido (14,9%) e 543 foram perdidos (42,4%). Em ambos os momentos, foram avaliadas as variáveis sexo, idade, escolaridade, estado conjugal, renda familiar, arranjo de moradia, status cognitivo (Mini-Exame do Estado Mental) e fenótipo de fragilidade (três ou mais de cinco critérios). As diferenças intergrupos e intragrupos foram verificadas pelos testes qui-quadrado de Pearson e de McNemar, respectivamente. O nível de significância foi estabelecido em p<0,05. Resultados Entre os sobreviventes, os participantes eram mais jovens (72,2±5,3 anos) do que entre os falecidos (75,5±6,8 anos) e havia mais idosos casados, com nível educacional mais elevado, sem deficit cognitivo e pré-frágeis. Da LB para o SG, houve aumento estatisticamente significativo do número de idosos que moravam sozinhos (17,1% vs. 22,0%), não tinham companheiro(a) (46,4% vs. 55,4%), tinham renda familiar menor que três salários-mínimos (52,2% vs. 62,2%), apresentavam deficit cognitivo (17,7% vs. 23,5%) e eram frágeis (9,8% vs. 24,5%) Conclusão Da LB para o SG, ocorreu aumento da vulnerabilidade física, cognitiva e social dos idosos. Estes resultados reforçam a importância de políticas públicas que favoreçam a qualidade de vida dos idosos e a redução das iniquidades de saúde ao longo da vida.

Prevalence of chronic diseases in octogenarians: data from the National Health Survey 2019

Abstract This article aims to estimate the prevalence of chronic diseases/conditions in octogenarians according to sex, age groups and private health insurance, and its relationship with difficulty in performing usual activities. Cross-sectional population-based study with elderly data (n = 6,098) from the National Health Survey (PNS) 2019. Prevalences and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. The prevalences were: hypertension 61.7%, chronic back problem 30.0%, hypercholesterolemia 22.0%, diabetes 20.3%; arthritis/rheumatism 19.4%, heart disease 19.3%, depression 9.4%, cancer 8.9%, cerebrovascular accident (CA) 7.5%, asthma 4.9%, lung disease (LD) 4.2% and kidney failure (KF) 3.0%. Hypertension, chronic back problem, hypercholesterolemia, major arthritis/rheumatism and depression in women, and cancer in men. Major heart disease, hypercholesterolemia, arthritis/rheumatism, KF, cancer and depression in those with private health insurance. Restriction of usual activities 14.8%, more frequent in cardiac patients, with chronic back problem, arthritis/rheumatism, KF, depression, CA, cancer and LD. There were higher prevalences in women and in those who have health insurance. Difficulties in usual activities related to diseases demand the expansion of care for the older adults.

Precisão da medida de mobilidade no espaço de vida para discriminar fragilidade e sarcopenia em idosos

Resumo Objetivo Identificar o perfil de mobilidade nos espaços de vida em idosos que vivem na comunidade e estabelecer a precisão dos pontos de corte desse instrumento para discriminar entre níveis de fragilidade, fragilidade em marcha e de risco de sarcopenia. Método Estudo observacional e metodológico com 391 participantes com 72 anos e mais (80,4±4,6), que responderam ao Life Space Assessment (LSA) e a medidas de rastreio de fragilidade e risco de sarcopenia usando respectivamente o fenótipo de fragilidade e o SARC-F. Os pontos de corte para fragilidade e risco de sarcopenia foram determinados por meio da Curva ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) com intervalos de confiança de 95%. Resultados A média da pontuação no LSA foi 53,6±21,8. Os pontos de corte de melhor acurácia diagnóstica foram ≤54 pontos para fragilidade em marcha (AUC= 0,645 95%; p<0,001) e ≤60 pontos para risco de sarcopenia (AUC= 0,651 95%; p<0,001). Conclusão A capacidade de idosos de se deslocar nos vários níveis de espaços de vida, avaliado pelo LSA demonstrou ser uma ferramenta viável que pode contribuir no rastreio de fragilidade em marcha e de risco de sarcopenia e, com isso, prevenir desfechos negativos.

Prevalência e incidência de deficit cognitivo em pessoas idosas: associações com atividade física no lazer

Resumo Objetivo Descrever a prevalência e a incidência de deficit cognitivo em pessoas idosas, considerando a presença isolada e conjunta de atividades físicas no lazer, hipertensão arterial sistêmica e obesidade. Igualmente analisar a presença isolada e simultânea de inatividade física, obesidade, hipertensão e deficit cognitivo em dois tempos de medida. Métodos Foi realizado um estudo observacional, analítico e de coorte, baseado nos registros dos bancos de dados da linha de base (2008-2009) e do seguimento (2016-2017) do Estudo Fibra Campinas. Foram realizadas medidas de rastreio de demência, de autorrelato de horas semanais de atividades físicas de no lazer de diferentes intensidades, de hipertensão arterial e de status nutricional, com base no Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC). Resultados Participaram 394 pessoas idosas, 71,8% das quais eram mulheres; 74,4% tinham escolaridade <4 anos; Midade =72,8±5,3 na linha de base e Midade =81,4±4,8 no seguimento. Na linha de base, as condições conjuntas mais prevalentes foram inatividade física e hipertensão (21,5%) e as menos prevalentes, inatividade física, obesidade, hipertensão e deficit cognitivo (0,6%). Foram observadas associações entre deficit cognitivo e inatividade física no seguimento. Idosos inativos na linha de base apresentaram maior razão de incidência de deficit cognitivo no seguimento, ajustada por sexo, idade, escolaridade, estado nutricional e hipertensão (RI=2,27; IC 95%: 1,49-3,45; p<0,001). Conclusão A prevalência e a incidência de deficit cognitivo em idosos refletem a influência de baixo nível de atividade física no lazer na linha de base e no seguimento.

Incontinência urinária, senso de controle e autonomia, e participação social em idosos residentes na comunidade

Resumo Objetivo Identificar a presença de sintomas de incontinência urinária (IU) e testar um modelo de associações diretas e indiretas com as variáveis psicossociais senso de controle/autonomia e participação social em idosos residentes na comunidade. Método Estudo transversal, realizado com 419 idosos de 72 anos ou mais (70,2% feminino) participantes das medidas de seguimento do Estudo Fibra-Polo Unicamp. Idade, sexo e escolaridade foram as variáveis sociodemográficas selecionadas como antecedentes das relações entre IU e participação social. Senso pessoal de controle e autonomia foi testado como mediador dessas relações em análise de caminhos via método de equações estruturais (Path Analysis). Resultados A IU foi relatada por 38% da amostra, com diferenças significativas entre os sexos (41% feminino versus 31,3% masculino). Foram propostos três níveis de participação social a partir do grau de envolvimento dos indivíduos com a sociedade. O modelo de associações explicou 15% da variância em participação social. Efeitos diretos foram encontrados entre controle e autonomia e participação social. Efeitos indiretos entre escolaridade e participação foram mediados pela presença de IU. Conclusão IU contribuiu para a restrição em participação social em todos os níveis. Controle e autonomia não se mostrou um mediador psicológico para as relações entre IU e participação, embora associada a ambas variáveis. A presença de IU potencializou as relações desvantajosas entre escolaridade e participação social. Enquanto fatores de natureza modificável, iniciativas clínicas e psicossociais sobre IU podem resultar em diminuição de efeitos psicológicos negativos e redução de desigualdades educacionais em participação social.

Follow-up evaluation of the Fibra Study: sociodemographic, cognitive, and frailty characterization of older adults in Campinas and Ermelino Matarazzo, SP

Abstract Objective To investigate and compare the sociodemographic, cognitive and frailty profile of participants from the Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (Fibra) study regarding follow-up (FW) and baseline (BL) measurements carried out in 2016-2017 and 2008-2009, respectively. Methods A total of 1,284 older adults living in Campinas and Ermelino Matarazzo (SP), Brazil, participated in the BL, comprising a pooled sample. At FW, 549 older adults (42.7%) were interviewed again; 192 had died (14.9%) and 543 were lost to follow-up (42.4%). Sex, age, education, marital status, family income, housing arrangement, cognitive status (Mini-Mental State Examination) and frailty phenotype (score ≥3 out of 5) were evaluated at both timepoints. Intergroup and intragroup differences were verified by Pearson's chi-square and McNemar's tests. Statistical significant level was set at p<0.05 Results The survivors were younger (72.2±5.3 years) than the deceased (75.5±6.8 years) and individuals included in the FW were mostly married, higher educated, cognitively unimpaired and pre-frail. Between BL and FW there was an increase in the number of participants who lived alone (17.1% vs. 22.0%), had no partner (46.4% vs. 55.4%), a family income <3 minimum wages (52.2% vs. 62.2%), cognitive impairment (17.7% vs. 23.5%) and frailty (9.8% vs. 24.5%). Conclusion Between BL and FW there was an increase in the physical, cognitive and social vulnerability of the older adults. These results reinforce the importance of public policies that favor the quality of life of older people and a reduction in health inequities throughout life.

Prevalence and incidence of cognitive impairment in older adults: associations with physical activity at leisure

Abstract Objective Describing the prevalence and incidence of cognitive impairment in older adults, considering the isolated and combined presence of leisure-time physical activities, hypertension, and obesity. Methods An observational, analytical, cohort study was conducted based on the data records of baseline (2008-2009) and follow-up (2016-2017) from the Campinas FIBRA Study. Screening for dementia and self-report measures concerning the number of weekly hours of low and moderate levels of leisure-time physical activities, hypertension, and nutritional status based on the body mass index (BMI) were applied. Results There were 394 aged participants; 71.8% were female and 74.4% had less than four years of formal education. The mean age at the baseline was 72.8±5.3 years old, and at follow-up was 81.4±4.8. At baseline, the most prevalent concurrent conditions were physical inactivity and hypertension (21.5%), and the least prevalent were physical inactivity, obesity, hypertension and cognitive deficit (0.6%). Associations were observed between physical inactivity at follow-up, or for both measurement periods, and cognitive impairment at follow-up. Inactive participants at the baseline showed a higher incidence ratio of cognitive impairment at follow-up, adjusted for sex, age, education, nutritional status and hypertension (RI=2.27; 95%CI: 1.49-3.45; p<0.001). Conclusion Prevalence and incidence of cognitive deficit mostly reflected the influence of low levels of leisure-time physical activity at baseline and follow-up.

Stability and change in prospective measures of life satisfaction in older adults: Fibra Study

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to identify the incidence and variables associated with stability and change in life satisfaction (LS) between baseline and 9-year follow-up, in community-dwelling-older adults. Method A prospective longitudinal study of baseline (BL; 2008-2009) and follow-up (FW; 2016-2017) data from the Frailty in Elderly Brazilians Study involving 360 individuals aged 71.7±5.0 years at BL, 68.9% women, was conducted. Associations of sociodemographic and psychosocial variables, and objective and subjective health indicators measured at BL with the incidence of stability and change in LS between BL and FW were investigated. Results Nine years after the BL collection, the following results were observed: higher incidence of stability (61.1%) than of worsening (26.4%) or improvement (12.5%) in LS; lower incidence of worsening of LS in the ≥80 age group than in the 70-79 years group; higher incidence of change than stability of LS among the participants with multimorbidities and scores > 6 for depressive symptoms; higher incidence of LS worsening among participants with low self-rated health (relative risk; RR=2.26) and low satisfaction with memory (RR=2.33). Conclusions The incidence of stability in LS was more frequent than that of worsening or improvement. Subjective indicators of physical health and satisfaction with memory may serve as indicators of deterioration in wellbeing over time and the presence of depressive symptoms may suggest instability in self-assessments, possibly accompanying a reduction or increase in LS over time. There was considerable heterogeneity in the manifestations of LS among the older adults assessed.

Frailty, depression and mortality in a cohort of community-dwelling older adults

Abstract Objective To estimate the risk represented by the combined conditions of frailty and depression in relation to mortality in a cohort of older adults in a prospective measure. Method Prospective cohort study derived from baseline (2008/2009) and follow-up (2016/2017) measurements of the FIBRA Study - Polo Unicamp. Data from 739 older adults (67,2% female; 73,1+5.87 years) living in two urban centers in the state of São Paulo (Brazil) were analyzed to examine survival curves and to estimate mortality risk. The analyzes included four conditions resulting from the combination of depression (presence x absence of symptoms) and frailty (frail x robust) and the covariates sex, age, education, cognitive performance and comorbidities. Results The percentage of deaths was 25.7%. There were significant differences between the survival curves regarding the combinations between frailty and depression. Male sex, age over 75 years, low education, low cognitive performance and the combinations “depression-robust”, “depression-frail” and “no depression-frail” presented independent risks for mortality. In the multivariate model, the highest risks were given, respectively, by older ages, the combinations “depression-robust”, “depression-frail”, “no depression-frail”, male sex and lower cognitive performance. Conclusion Combinations between frailty and depression can result in differences in survival and mortality among older adults. In the nine-year period, depression proved to be the ordering variable of the groups in relation to risk estimates, even in the presence of important covariates. Investments in the prevention of both syndromes and their associations may result in a decrease in mortality in older people from general causes.

Mudanças em indicadores antropométricos e de velocidade de marcha em idosos: estudo de coorte

Resumo Objetivo Caracterizar mudanças em indicadores antropométricos em idosos e investigar se o excesso de peso associou-se com menor velocidade da marcha (VM), com base em medidas realizadas a um intervalo de nove anos. Métodos Estudo de coorte com idosos (≥65 anos), realizado em 2008-2009 (linha de base) e 2016-2017 (seguimento) em Campinas/SP e Ermelino Matarazzo/SP, Brasil. Foram aferidas medidas de peso corporal, estatura, circunferência da cintura (CC) e do quadril (CQ), usadas para obter os indicadores: índice de massa corporal (IMC), razão cintura-estatura (RCE), razão cintura-quadril (RCQ) e índice de conicidade (Índice C). Os testes T e de Wilcoxon para amostras pareadas foram usados para estimar as diferenças. Resultados Foram analisadas informações de 537 idosos (70,0% mulheres) com idade média de 72,2 anos na linha de base e 80,7 anos no seguimento. Após nove anos, os homens apresentaram reduções significativas do peso corporal, estatura e IMC, e aumento do Índice C. Nas mulheres, observou-se declínio do peso, estatura e IMC, e elevação da CC, CQ, RCE, RCQ e Índice C. Observaram-se variações percentuais de: -3,89% (peso), -0,36% (estatura), -4,18% (IMC) e +2,27% (Índice C) nos homens; -2,95% (peso), -0,65% (estatura), -0,73% (IMC), +3,33% (CC), +1,59% (CQ), +3,45% (RCE), +2,27% (RCQ) e +4,76% (Índice C) nas mulheres. O excesso de peso associou-se com maiores chances de estabilidade e de novos casos de menor VM no seguimento. Conclusão Foram identificadas mudanças no peso, estatura, IMC, nos indicadores de obesidade abdominal, especialmente nas mulheres, e associação entre excesso de peso e menor VM.

Fragilidade, depressão e mortalidade em uma coorte de pessoas idosas residentes na comunidade

Resumo Objetivo Estimar o risco representado por condições combinadas de fragilidade e depressão em relação à mortalidade de uma coorte de idosos em medida prospectiva. Método Estudo de coorte prospectivo derivado das medidas de linha de base (2008/2009) e seguimento (2016/2017) do Estudo Fibra - Polo Unicamp. Foram analisados dados de 739 idosos (67,2% feminino; 73,1+5,87 anos) residentes em dois centros urbanos do estado de São Paulo (Brasil) para o exame de curvas de sobrevida e para estimar risco de mortalidade. As análises incluíram quatro condições resultantes da combinação entre depressão (presença x ausência de sintomas) e de fragilidade (frágil x robusto) e as covariáveis sexo, idade, escolaridade, desempenho cognitivo e comorbidades. Resultados A porcentagem de óbitos foi de 25,7%. Houve diferenças significativas entre as curvas de sobrevida referentes às combinações entre fragilidade e depressão. Sexo masculino, idade acima de 75 anos, baixa escolaridade, baixo desempenho cognitivo e as combinações “depressão-robusto”, “depressão-frágil” e “sem depressão-frágil” apresentaram riscos independentes para mortalidade. No modelo multivariado, os maiores riscos foram dados, respectivamente, por idades mais avançadas, as combinações “depressão-robusto”, “depressão-frágil”, “sem depressão-frágil”, sexo masculino e menor desempenho cognitivo. Conclusão Combinações entre fragilidade e depressão podem resultar em diferenças em sobrevida e mortalidade entre idosos. No período de nove anos, depressão revelou ser a variável de ordenação dos grupos em relação às estimativas de risco, mesmo na presença de covariáveis importantes. Investimentos na prevenção de ambas as síndromes e de suas associações podem resultar diminuição na mortalidade de idosos por causas gerais.

Changes in anthropometric indicators and gait speed in older adults: cohort study

Abstract Objective To characterize changes in anthropometric indicators in older adults and investigate whether being overweight was associated with lower gait speed (GS), based on measurements taken at an interval of nine years. Methods Cohort study with older adults (≥65 years), conducted in 2008-2009 (baseline) and 2016-2017 (follow-up) in the city of Campinas/SP and in Ermelino Matarazzo/SP, Brazil. Body weight, height, waist circumference (WC) and hip (HC) measurements were taken and used to determine the following indicators: body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and conicity index (C index). The T and Wilcoxon tests for paired samples were used to estimate the differences. Results Information from 537 older adults (70.0% women) with a mean age of 72.2 years at baseline and 80.7 years at follow-up were analyzed. After nine years, the men showed significant decreases in weight, height and BMI, and an increase in the C index. In women, decreases in weight, height and BMI, and increases in WC, HC, WHtR, WHR and C index were observed. The percentage variations observed were: -3.89% (weight), -0.36% (height), -4.18% (BMI) and +2.27% (C index) among men; -2.95% (weight), -0.65% (height), -0.73% (BMI), +3.33% (WC), +1.59% (HC), +3.45% (WHtR), +2.27% (WHR) and +4.76% (C-Index) among women. Being overweight was associated with greater odds ratio of stability and new cases of lower GS at follow-up. Conclusion Changes were identified in weight, height, BMI, and indicators of abdominal obesity, especially in women, together with an association between being overweight and lower GS.

Associações diretas e indiretas entre autoavaliação de saúde, indicadores objetivos de saúde e neuroticismo em idosos

Resumo Objetivo analisar associações diretas e indiretas entre autoavaliação de saúde, indicadores objetivos de saúde e neuroticismo em idosos Método Os dados foram extraídos dos registros de seguimento (2016-2017) do Estudo da Fragilidade em Idosos Brasileiros (Estudo FIBRA), de base populacional, sobre fragilidade e fatores associados na velhice. Trezentos e noventa e sete indivíduos com idade a partir de 73 anos no seguimento responderam a um item sobre autoavaliação de saúde. Polimedicação, dor crônica e multimorbidade foram autorrelatadas, fadiga foi mensurada pela CES-D, depressão pela EDG e neuroticismo pelo inventário NEO-PI-R. Foi realizada análise de caminhos, para verificar associações diretas e indiretas entre autoavaliação de saúde, indicadores objetivos de saúde e neuroticismo. Resultados Relações mais robustas foram observadas entre sexo e multimorbidade, depressão e neuroticismo, e neuroticismo e autoavaliação de saúde. Destaca-se que neuroticismo mediou a relação entre idade, dor crônica, multimorbidade e depressão com autoavaliação de saúde. Conclusão O neuroticismo é um importante mediador da relação entre autoavaliação de saúde e indicadores objetivos de saúde. Trabalhos longitudinais são necessários para explicar as relações observadas.

Doenças crônicas não transmissíveis considerando determinantes sociodemográficos em coorte de idosos

Resumo Objetivo Analisar as diferenças entre as proporções de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT), em dois momentos, em uma coorte de idosos a partir de determinantes sociodemográficos. Método Trata-se de estudo longitudinal retrospectivo com dados obtidos do Estudo FIBRA linha de base (2008-2009) e seguimento (2016-2017). O teste de McNemar foi utilizado para comparar as frequências de DCNT segundo sexo, idade e escolaridade, com nível de significância de 5% (p<0,05). Resultados A amostra foi composta por 453 idosos (idade média 72±5,2 anos; 69,4% do sexo feminino). Observou-se aumento nas proporções de hipertensão arterial (64,4% versus 71,1%) e diabetes mellitus (21,9% versus 27,5%) no período estudado, e redução nas de doença reumatológica (43,6% versus 35,8%) e depressão (21,7% versus 15,7%). A hipertensão aumentou no sexo feminino, e nos idosos com 65-74 anos e com baixa escolaridade; o diabetes aumentou nos idosos do sexo masculino e nos indivíduos com idade acima de 65 anos e com baixa escolaridade; observou-se redução das proporções de doenças reumatológicas e de depressão no decorrer do estudo nas mulheres, naqueles com 65-74 anos de idade e com nível mais baixo de escolaridade. Conclusão Os dados refletem a necessidade de compreensão dos determinantes sociodemográficos de saúde envolvidos no processo saúde-doença-cuidado para a redução de iniquidades sociais e da carga de DCNT nos segmentos populacionais mais vulneráveis, especialmente na população idosa com multimorbidade.

Accuracy of the life-space mobility measure for discriminating frailty and sarcopenia in older people

Abstract Objective To identify the profile of a sample of older people recruited at home based on a measure of life-space mobility and to establish the accuracy of the cut-off points of this instrument for discriminating between levels of frailty, frailty in walking speed and risk of sarcopenia. Method An observational methodological study of 391 participants aged ≥72 (80.4±4.6) years, who answered the Life-Space Assessment (LSA) and underwent frailty and risk of sarcopenia screening using the frailty phenotype and SARC-F measures, respectively, was performed. The cut-off points for frailty and risk of sarcopenia were determined using ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) curves and their respective 95% confidence intervals. Results Mean total LSA score was 53.6±21.8. The cut-off points with the best diagnostic accuracy for total LSA were ≤54 points for frailty in walking speed (AUC=0.645 95%; p<0.001) and ≤60 points for risk of sarcopenia (AUC=0.651 95%; p<0.001). Conclusion The ability of older people to move around life-space levels, as assessed by the LSA, proved a promising tool to screen for frailty in walking speed and risk of sarcopenia, thus contributing to the prevention of adverse outcomes.

Urinary incontinence, sense of control/autonomy and social participation in community-dwelling older adults

Abstract Objective Identify the presence of urinary incontinence (UI) symptoms and test a model of direct and indirect associations with the psychosocial variables sense of control/autonomy and social participation in community-dwelling older adults. Method Cross-sectional study conducted with 419 adults aged 72 years or over (70.2% female) participating in the follow-up survey of the FIBRA Study - Polo Unicamp. Age, sex and educational level were the sociodemographic variables selected as antecedents of the relationship between UI and social participation. A sense of control/autonomy was tested as a mediator of these relationships in a path analysis through structural equation modelling. Results UI was reported by 38% of the sample, with significant differences according to sex (41% female versus 31.3% male). Three levels of social participation were proposed, based on the degree of interaction between the individual and society. The model of relationships explained 15% of the variance in social participation. Direct effects were observed between control/autonomy and social participation; indirect effects between education and participation, mediated by the presence of UI. Conclusion UI contributed to restrictions in social participation at all levels. Control/autonomy, although related, did not prove to be a psychological mediator for the relationship between UI and participation. The presence of UI potentialized the disadvantageous relationships between education and social participation. As modifiable factors, the treatment and management of UI through clinical and psychosocial initiatives can act to reduce negative psychological effects and reduce socioeconomic inequalities in social participation.

Risk of all-cause mortality and its association with health status in a cohort of community-dwelling older people: FIBRA study

This article aims to estimate the risk of death according to sociodemographic characteristics, chronic diseases, frailty, functional capacity, and social participation in older people as well as determine the median time of death in relation to health status and social participation. A retrospective longitudinal study was conducted with older people (≥65 years) in 2008-09 and 2016-17 in the city of Campinas and the subdistrict of Ermelino Matarazzo in the city of São Paulo. Face-to-face interviews were conducted at community centers and the participants' homes. The cumulative incidence of death was estimated and associations with the predictor variables were analyzed using Poisson multiple regression. The Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test were also used. Among the 741 individuals located at follow-up, 192 had deceased. The incidence of death was higher among those who reported having heart disease and those who were dependent on others regarding the performance of instrumental activities of daily living. The incidence of death was lower among women, individuals in the highest income stratum, and those who performed three or more activities related to social inclusion. No differences in median survival times were found. Predictors of mortality can contribute to broadening knowledge on the singularities of the aging process.

How do the factors associated with frailty change with sex? An exploratory network analysis

BACKGROUND

It is important to study multiple social, physical and psychosocial factors associated with frailty in populations characterized by social and health disparities, such as men and women.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional population-based study with older adults ≥65 years from the FIBRA (Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults) 2008-2009 study. We carried out a comparative analysis of the factors associated with the frailty phenotype in older men (N=706) and women (N=1.251) using networks based on mixed graphical models (MGM) according to sex.

RESULTS

In the male network, frailty was most strongly associated with years of schooling, overall satisfaction with life and falls; in the female network, the syndrome was associated with satisfaction with problem solving, depression and diabetes in addition to years of schooling. Furthermore, permutation tests showed that the networks for males and females were statistically different in terms of their structure, the global strength of the relationships and the strength of the relationships between frailty and diabetes; frailty and falls; frailty and depression; frailty and overall satisfaction with life; and frailty and satisfaction with problem solving (p<0.05). The walktrap network cluster detection algorithm revealed that in men, frailty was in a physical and social dimension while in women the syndrome was in a cardiometabolic and psychosocial dimension.

CONCLUSIONS

Network analysis showed that different factors are associated with frailty for each sex. The findings suggest that different strategies for dealing with frailty should be adopted for men and women so that care and prevention efforts can be directed appropriately.

Difficulty in taking medication and stroke among older adults with systemic arterial hypertension: the Fibra Study

This article aims to investigate whether difficulty in taking medication is associated with stroke among older adults with Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) and to explore their association with living arrangements. Cross-sectional study was based on 3,502 older adults with SAH from the four universities pole of Frailty in Brazilian Older People (Fibra) Study, Brazil, including 14 municipalities of the five Brazilian regions. We used the medical diagnosis of stroke and difficulty in taking medications (self-reported difficulty and financial difficulty affording prescribed medications). Multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression. Differently from women, older men with SAH, which report difficulty in taking medication (unintentional non-adherence), have higher odds of stroke. When stratified by living arrangements, those living with a partner have even higher odds of stroke compared to those without difficulty in taking medication and living alone. None association was found for difficulty affording prescribed medication for both men and women. Unintentional difficulty in taking medication plays a role in SAH treatment among men. Primary care strategies for controlling blood pressure should not be focus only on patients but targeting spouses as well.

Impact of functional capacity on change in self-rated health among older adults in a nine-year longitudinal study

The aims of the present study were to estimate the frequency of change in self-rated health (SRH) among community-dwelling older adults, between two measures taken at a 9-year interval; and determine factors associated with a decline and an improvement in SRH, in relation to aspects of physical/emotional health and subjective wellbeing. Data were derived from a community-based study on frailty among Brazilian elderly. Associations were investigated using Pearson’s chi-square test and relative risk ratios were estimated using multinomial logistic regression analysis. 39.3% of participants did not change their SRH at both assessment times, 21.7% rated it as worse and 39.0% rated it as better. The relative risk ratio of an improvement in SRH for individuals with disability in basic activities of daily living (ADLs) was lower than for individuals with independence in basic ADLs (IRR=0.22; IC95%: 0.08-0.63). Understanding the complex interactions between self-rated health and the dimensions that influence the improvement of health perception may shed light on key determinants of the wellbeing among older adults.

Three definitions of probable sarcopenia and associations with falls and functional disability among community-dwelling older adults

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence of probable sarcopenia according to 3 different definitions ("strength, assistance with walking, rise from a chair, climb stairs, falls"- SARC-F score, low grip strength, and the guidelines indicated by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 - EWGSOP2) and assess the association of probable sarcopenia with functional disability and falls among community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study with 419 older adults. Probable sarcopenia was assessed by 3 definitions: a SARC-F ≥ 4, low grip strength (< 27 kg for men and < 16 kg for women), and the EWGSOP2 criteria. Associations were investigated using Pearson's chi-square test and prevalence ratios were estimated by Poisson regression (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

Of the total, probable sarcopenia was identified in 23.0% of participants (SARC-F ≥ 4 score), 33.7% (low grip strength), and 10.4% (EWGSOP2) according to each different definition. In adjusted regression models, having at least 1 instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) disability and having fallen in the last 12 months were significantly associated with a SARC-F ≥ 4 (prevalence ratio, PR = 1.60; and PR = 2.50, respectively) and EWGSOP2 (PR = 1.78; and PR = 2.19, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

IADL disability and falls were associated with a SARC-F ≥ 4 and the EWGSOP2 criteria (SARC-F ≥ 4 and low grip strength). Probable sarcopenia may be used in clinical practice in order to facilitate the diagnosis of definite sarcopenia and to implement early interventions that could prevent functional decline and falls in older people.

A multidimensional approach to frailty compared with physical phenotype in older Brazilian adults: data from the FIBRA-BR study

BACKGROUND

Frailty is a predictor of negative health outcomes in older adults. The physical frailty phenotype is an often used form for its operationalization. Some authors have pointed out limitations regarding the unidimensionality of the physical phenotype, introducing other dimensions in the approach to frailty. This study aimed to create a multidimensional model to evaluate frailty in older Brazilian adults and to compare the dimensions of the model created among the categories of the physical frailty phenotype.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from 3569 participants (73.7 ± 6.6 years) from a multicenter and multidisciplinary survey (FIBRA-BR). A three-dimensional model was developed: physical dimension (poor self-rated health, vision impairment, hearing impairment, urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and sleeping disorder), social dimension (living alone, not having someone who could help when needed, not visiting others, and not receiving visitors), and psychological dimension (depressive symptoms, concern about falls, feelings of sadness, and memory problems). The five criteria of the phenotype created by Fried and colleagues were used to evaluate the physical frailty phenotype. The proposed multidimensional frailty model was analyzed using factorial analysis. Pearson's chi-square test was used to analyze the associations between each variable of the multidimensional frailty model and the physical phenotype categories. Analysis of variance compared the multidimensional dimensions scores among the three categories of the physical frailty phenotype.

RESULTS

The factorial analysis confirmed a model with three factors, composed of 12 variables, which explained 38.6% of the variability of the model data. The self-rated health variable was transferred to the psychological dimension and living alone variable to the physical dimension. The vision impairment and hearing impairment variables were dropped from the physical dimension. The variables significantly associated with the physical phenotype were self-rated health, urinary incontinence, visiting others, receiving visitors, depressive symptoms, concern about falls, feelings of sadness, and memory problems. A statistically significant difference in mean scores for physical, social, and psychological dimensions among three physical phenotype categories was observed (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

These results confirm the applicability of our frailty model and suggest the need for a multidimensional approach to providing appropriate and comprehensive care for older adults.

Ageism against older adults in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: an integrative review

OBJECTIVE

To report the main results of studies on prejudice, stereotyping, and age-based discrimination (ageism) in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This is an integrative review of the literature on ageism in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, conducted between May and June 2020, with data collected from the following databases: Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE/PubMed), Web of Science (Thompson Reuters), Scopus (Elsevier Science), Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (Lilacs) and Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SciELO).

RESULTS

Twenty-one publications addressing ageism during the pandemics, its origins, consequences, and ethical and political implications were analyzed. All publications were theoretical with a critical/reflexive approach, being 90,5% opinion articles (n = 19) and 9,5% research (n = 2). The main findings indicate criticisms regarding resources allocation and intensive care based exclusively on age. The results also highlight the impacts of social isolation, the use of technologies and social media, and intergenerational relationships within the COVID-19 scenario.

CONCLUSION

According to most publications, although ageism has always been present, it became more evident during the COVID-19 pandemic as a form of discrimination against older adults. "Ageist" discourses may exert a negative influence in older adults' lives, causing severe social and psychological impacts.

Psychometric study of the Awareness of Age-Related Change (AARC) Short Scale translated to Portuguese, applied to Brazilian older adults

The concept Awareness of Age-Related Change (AARC) is defined as a person’s awareness that their behavior, level of physical, cognitive and social performance, and ways of experiencing life have changed as a consequence of having grown older, and not because of disease.

Factors Associated With Positive Self-Rated Health: Comparing Older Adults in Brazil and in Portugal

Introduction: Self-rated health is a multidimensional health indicator and a predictor of adverse events in old age. Answers to this assessment are influenced by social, cultural and personality factors. Aim: Exploring common and distinctive characteristics of Brazilian and Portuguese older adults aged 70 and over regarding positive self-rated health according to sociodemographic variables, to functional capacity, to independent performance of basic activities of daily living and to neuroticism, as well as analyzing associations between positive self-rated health and these variables. Methods: The present paper is a comparative and cross-sectional study based on secondary data contained in the databases of the FIBRA (Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults) follow-up study, with 418 Brazilian older adults, and of the DIA (From Disability to Activity: The Challenge of Aging) study, with 380 Portuguese older adults. Both samples had higher percentages of women: 68.4% for Portugal and 69.9% for Brazil. The Brazilian sample had a higher average age (80.31 ± 4.67) than the Portuguese sample (76.80 ± 5.28). Results: The Portuguese older adults had better overall cognition scores, higher handgrip strength and higher neuroticism values than the Brazilian older adults. In the simple and multiple logistic regression analyses, it was found that among Brazilian older adults, subjects with higher scores in the MMSE (OR 1.16; 95% CI 1.08-1.24), regardless of ADL performance (OR 2.13; 95% CI 1.31-3.47) and with scores 24-29 (OR 1.92; 95% CI 1.07-3.43) or 11-23 (OR 2.09; 95% CI 1.15-3.79) in neuroticism were more likely to assess their health as very good/good. On the other hand, the Portuguese older adults with intermediate 24-9 (OR 2.38; 95% CI 1.31-4.33) or low 11-23 (OR 5.31; 95% CI 2.69-10.45) scores in neuroticism were more likely to evaluate their health as very good/good. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present study and on the existing literature, it may be said that it is possible for people to age while keeping a positive perception of their own health, even in advanced old age; comparisons between the above-mentioned countries, however, point to the need for investments in healthcare systems so that older adults may enjoy greater physical independence and improved mental health.

Variables associated with religious practice in Brazilian adults and older adults aged 50 and over: ELSI-Brazil

Abstract Objective To identify variables associated with religious practice in Brazilian adults and older adults aged 50 and over. Method In this observational and cross-sectional study, the participants included 7,171 individuals aged 50 and over from a representative national sample (N=9,412), interviewed in the first wave of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil), on frequency of participation in religious services, religious affiliation, self-rated health, sex, age, education, living arrangements, region of residence, and race. The Poisson regression model was used to investigate crude and adjusted associations between variables. Results Fifty-seven percent of the sample was female, the mean age was 62.5±9.4 years old, the majority had 5 to 8 years of education and lived with 3 or more people, 42% resided in the Southeast region, and 48% self-declared as Pardo [mixed race], 66% were Catholic, 76% attended religious services once or more times a week, and 45% rated their health as fair. The most frequent participants in religious services were Black (PR=1.06, 95%CI 1.00-1.12)and mixed race (PR=1.07, 95%CI 1.03-1.11), Evangelical (PR =1.26, 95%CI 1.22-1.30), and self-rated their health as fair (PR=1.07, 95%CI 1.02-1.11). In contrast, the least frequent were male (PR=0.87, 95%CI 0.84-0.90), with 5 to 8 years of education (PR=0.92, 95%CI 0.88-0.97), residing in the Southeast (PR=0.91, 95%CI 0.86-0.95) and South (PR=0.90, 95%CI 0.82-0.99) regions. Conclusion Self-declaration as Black and mixed race, Evangelical religion, and self-rated health as fair were associated with higher attendance at religious services among Brazilians aged 50 and over.

Neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with family caregiver burden and depression

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive and degenerative condition affecting several cognitive areas, with a decline in functional abilities and behavioral changes.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between neuropsychiatric symptoms in older adults with AD and caregiver burden and depression.

METHODS

A total of 134 family caregivers of older people diagnosed with AD answered a questionnaire with sociodemographic data and questions concerning the care context, neuropsychiatric symptoms, caregiver burden, and depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

Results revealed that 95% of older adults had at least one neuropsychiatric symptom, with the most common being: apathy, anxiety, and depression. Among the 12 neuropsychiatric symptoms investigated, 10 were significantly associated with caregiver burden, while 8 showed significant correlations with depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Neuropsychiatric symptoms were related to caregiver burden and depressive symptoms. In addition to the older adult with AD, the caregiver should receive care and guidance from the health team to continue performing quality work.

Significados de ser feliz na velhice e qualidade de vida percebida segundo idosos brasileiros

Resumo Objetivo Identificar associações entre significados atribuídos ao conceito “ser feliz na velhice” e qualidade de vida percebida em amostra de idosos recrutados na comunidade. Métodos Os dados foram extraídos dos bancos da linha de base (LB; 2008-2009) e do seguimento (SG; 2016-2017) do Estudo Fibra Campinas, de base populacional, sobre fragilidade em idosos. Participaram 211 indivíduos com idade média de 81,0±4,3 anos no SG, com registro de respostas a uma questão aberta sobre felicidade na velhice na LB e à escala CASP-19 de qualidade de vida percebida (SG). Os registros da LB foram submetidos a análise de conteúdo; os do SG a medidas de frequência, posição e dispersão, e ambos a análises de regressão logística. Resultados Da análise de conteúdo foram derivados quatro temas: saúde e funcionalidade (o mais mencionado), bem-estar psicológico, relações interpessoais e recursos materiais. As categorias mais citadas foram autodesenvolvimento e relações familiares. Prevaleceram altas as pontuações na CASP-19, que foram mais prováveis entre os idosos que não mencionaram recursos materiais (OR=2,44; IC95%:1,20-4,43), nem saúde e funcionalidade (OR=2,03; IC95%:1,22-4,22), e entre os que citaram relações interpessoais (OR=1,92; IC95%:1,08-3,41) na LB. Altas pontuações no fator Autorrealização/Prazer foram mais prováveis entre os de 80-84 anos (OR=1,93; IC95%:1,01-3,68) e entre os que não citaram saúde e funcionalidade (OR=1,98; IC95%:1,00-1,98) na LB. Conclusão Felicidade na velhice e qualidade de vida referenciada a necessidades psicológicas são construtos relacionados. Sua avaliação capta vivências que excedem condições materiais e de saúde, predominantes nas medidas clássicas de qualidade de vida na velhice.