Work

Determinants of Functional Mobility in Older Adults

Year: 2017

Type: article

Abstract: Background and Purpose: Physiological changes with ageing are associated with muscle strength and physical activity (PA) declines in older adults. The purpose of this study was to assess if changes in muscle strength and time spent in PA could predict gait speed (GS) in older adults. Methods: The study population was identified from the NHANES 1999 - 2000 data set. All adults over the age of 64 years were included in the study. GS was assessed using a 20-foot timed walk. Quadriceps muscle strength was assessed using the Kim Kom dynamometer and recorded as the peak force in newtons (N). Time spent in PA was assessed by a questionnaire. Results: Data from 198 older adults were included in the study. Muscle strength was significantly associated with timed walk (r = -0.217, p <0.05). Using the enter method, our regression model with muscle strength, PA, BMI, age and gender as predictors explained 18.1% of the variance in GS (F(5,191)= 8.451, R2 =.181, p < 0.001). Discussion: Muscle strength, age and BMI were found to be significant predictors of GS in older adults. The walk time decreased by 0.13 seconds for every 1 N unit increases in strength. On the other hand, the walk time increased by 0.01 and 0.145 seconds respectively for every 1 unit increase in age and BMI. Conclusion: Based on the standardized coefficients, strength appears to have the biggest impact on GS. Gender and physical activity duration did not significantly predict gait speed performance in older adults

Source: Innovation in Aging

DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igx004.1456

Authors: S. Gore, J. Blackwood

Institution: University of Michigan–Flint

Language: English

Topic: Balance, Gait, and Falls Prevention

Subfield: Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,977