Relationship Between Ecg Abnormalities And Senior Fitness Test Performance In Older Adults

Abstract

BACKGROUND: ECG abnormalities in older adults are associated with high risk of coronary heart disease and subsequent cardiac events. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is an important predictor of mortality in older adults. CRF is impacted by loss of mobility, strength, and function leading to increased risk of mortality in the elderly. The Senior Fitness Test (SFT) is a functional measure of strength, aerobic endurance, flexibility, and agility/balance in older adults. ECG testing may be related to SFT performance, and may indicate deficits in CRF or functional capacity. Understanding the relationship between ECG abnormalities and SFT performance may aid in prescribing safe, effective exercise programs for this population. PURPOSE: The purpose of this pilot study was to measure the relationships between 12-Lead resting ECG data and SFT performance in male and female older adults. METHODS: Anthropometrics, BP, resting HR, 12-lead resting ECG, and SFT measurements were taken in 30 older adults (Age: 71.9±7.69yrs; Height: 65.81±3.39 in; Weight: 174.55±64.61lbs; BMI: 28.4±5.59kg/m2). SFT performance and ECG abnormalities were recorded, and relative VO2 was calculated. Relationships were analyzed using chi square statistics and Pearson’s correlations. RESULTS: ECG abnormalities were present in 57% of this population, but no significant relationship between abnormal ECG and age, gender, VO2, or SFT performance was found. There was a significant positive association between 30-sec chair stand (lower body strength) and 30-sec arm curl (upper body strength) performance (r=.73, p =.000), and between the 8-ft up and go (agility) and 6-min walk (CRF) distance (r=.77, p = .000). There was a significant inverse relationship between 30-sec chair stand (lower body strength) and 8-ft up and go (agility) time (r=-.69, p =.000). CONCLUSION: The presence of ECG abnormalities in over half of this population did not correlate with poor CRF or SFT performance. Lower body strength was associated with higher CRF and agility/balance, regardless of gender, age group, or ECG. Presence of ECG abnormalities may not have a negative effect on SFT performance, and older adults should be encouraged to participate in a supervised exercise program to prevent frailty and loss of independence.