Sex Differences in Age-Related Physical Changes among Community-Dwelling Adults.

Takuhiro Okabe,Keisuke Hirata,Makoto Suzuki,Junichi Shimizu,Hiroshi Goto,Naoki Iso,Kilchoon Cho

doi:10.3390/jcm10204800

Abstract

The prevalence of physical functioning limitations is positively correlated with age in both men and women. However, whether the appearance of deterioration differs depending on physical function and sex remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the modes of age-related changes in physical function and sex differences in middle-aged and older adults. This study comprised 124 (46 men and 78 women) healthy adults aged 30 years or older and examined gender differences in physical function. The results of this study showed that one-leg standing time had the highest rate of age-related decline in both men and women, followed by knee extension strength, skeletal muscle mass, the 5 m walking test, and the timed up and go test. The sex-specific points showed a high rate of decline in trunk forward bending in men and a high rate of decline in forced expiratory volume (1 s) and gradual rate of decline in the bone area ratio in women. After middle age, it is desirable to start monitoring and training balance, muscle function, and walking. Men require early intervention for flexibility, and women require early intervention for respiratory function and continued intervention for bone mineral density.

Highlights

Age-related decline in physical functioning is a major factor in life disorders common in men and women
There were no significant differences in age, Body mass index (BMI), FEV1, bone area ratio, the 5 m walking test, timed up and go (TUG) test, or one-leg standing time between men and women
The sex-specific points were a high rate of decline in flexibility in men and a high rate of decline in respiratory function (FEV1 ) and gradual rate of decline in bone mineral density in women

Summary

Introduction

Age-related decline in physical functioning is a major factor in life disorders common in men and women. From the viewpoint of preventive medicine, under such circumstances, various fields, such as medical care, long-term care, and welfare aim to prevent age-related deterioration of physical functions, such as muscular strength, balance ability, and walking ability and extend healthy life expectancy. Physical functions, such as muscle function [1,2], walking ability [2,3], flexibility [3], balance ability [4], respiratory function [5], and bone density [6], have been reported to decline with age.

Objectives

Methods

Discussion

Conclusion