Senior Fitness Test Research Articles

Impact of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation and Resistance Training on the Level of Functional Fitness in Elderly Women

ABSTRACT 
 Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) and resistance training (RT) on the level of functional fitness in a group of elderly women.
 Participants: 63 women (60-65 years) were randomly divided into 2 experimental groups (19 in WB-EMS, 22 in RT) and one control group (22 women). Both experimental groups underwent a ten-week lasting interventional program, the control group was asked to maintain their usual daily regimen and lifestyle.
 Methods: Senior fitness test battery (SFT) determined the level of functional fitness in participants, and the dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) assessed the body composition. 
 Results: The RT group reported a statistically significant difference between pre-and post-test in values of the Chair Stand test (p = 0.04), 8 Foot up and Go (p = 0.03), in the Back Scratch test left side (p = 0.02) and the Chair Sit and Reach test right side (p = 0.05). The WB-EMS interventional program had a positive statistically significant effect only the on level of flexibility of the lower limbs measured by the Chair Sit and Reach test left side (p = 0.05).
 Conclusions: The results of all individual components of functional fitness measured by SFT in both experimental groups (WB-EMS, RT) show an improving tendency. Comparing WB-EMS and RT groups, better results were confirmed in the RT group.
 Study limitations: Extending the length of intervention programs could have a more significant effect on the level of functional fitness in elderly women.
 Keywords: ageing, functional fitness, Senior fitness test, DXA, resistance training, WB-EMS

Walking Speed: A Factor in the Physical Fitness of the Elderly

The main purpose of the study was to explore whether gait velocity predicts the level of separate and overall physical fitness. In this study, we asked one hundred and twenty older adults over the age of 60 (mean ± SD age 71 ± 7 38 years, height 159 ± 21 cm, weight 70 ± 13 kg) to complete a Senior Fitness Test battery to assess the level of physical fitness and walked across the Zebris pressure platform (Munich, Germany) to measure gait velocity. To calculate overall physical fitness, we summed z-score values of each physical fitness test. Pearson’s coefficient (r) was used to determine the level of correlation and coefficient of determination (r2) for variance explained between gait velocity and physical fitness. Respondents conducted a battery of six tests: “chair stand in 30 s”, “arm curl in 30 s”, “2–minute step test”, “chair sit-and-reach test”, “back scratch test” and “8-feet up-and-go test”. Gait velocity was significantly correlated with chair stand in 30 sec (r=0.45, r2=20%, p<0.001), arm curl in 30 sec (r=0.56, r2=31%, p<0.001), 2-minute step test (r=0.44, r2=19%, p<0.001), chair sit-and-reach test (r=0.46, r2=21%, p<0.001), back scratch test (r=0.30, r2=9%, p<0.001) and 8-feet up-and-go test (r=-0.23, r2=5%, p=0.011). Gait velocity was not significantly correlated with waist circumference (r=0.12, r2=1%, p=0.189). Overall physical fitness was strongly correlated with gait velocity (r=0.75, r2=56%, p<0.001). In conclusion this study shows that gait velocity may be an easy and quick screening tool to predict the level of separate and overall physical fitness in a sample of older adults.
 
 Keywords: elderly, speed, performance, correlation, tool

Evaluación del entrenamiento visual sobre habilidades físicas y funciones visuales en adultos mayores de Bucaramanga, Colombia

Introduction: Visual training has been used to improve locomotion fall risk in older adults. Objective: This study evaluates the effects of visual training on physical abilities and visual functions of older adults from Bucaramanga, Colombia. Methodology: A quasi-experimental study of older adults who underwent visual evaluation and assessment of physical abilities through the Senior Fitness Test, a standardized obstacle course, and the eye-hand coordination test. For 10 weeks, all adults attended daily recreational physical activities. Additionally, those assigned to the experimental group received a weekly session of visual training. Results: A total of 52 adults with a median age of 68.5 years were enrolled. Of the participants, 84.21% (48) were female and 93.94% were obese. Normal values were presented for aerobic resistance and lower and upper limb strength. Overall, 91.3% (21) had no ocular pathologies impacting visual acuity. Those who received visual training showed statistically significant improvements in the time it took to run the obstacle course and on the eye-hand coordination test. Conclusions:Visual training has a positive effect on hand-eye coordination, vision-mediated locomotion, and balance in older adults. These results suggest that virtual reality may enhance reaction speed, balance, and coordination.

Effects of a 24-Week Low-Cost Multicomponent Exercise Program on Health-Related Functional Fitness in the Community-Dwelling Aged and Older Adults

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effects of a low-cost multicomponent exercise program on health-related functional fitness in the community-dwelling aged and older adults. As a second objective, this study compared the exercise program between aged adults (<65 years) and those considered elderly (≥65 years). Materials and Methods: Forty-eight participants were included in the exercise program, and their mean age was 64.73 years (±5.93 years). The Senior Fitness Tests were performed by each participant. A dynamometer was used to assess hand grip strength, and body composition was assessed considering the body mass index. Paired-sample t test was used to compare data at baseline and after the exercise program, considering the total sample. Afterwards, a 2 × 2 analysis of variance was used to examine differences within and between groups. Results: Statistically significant improvements in the chair stand (t = -14.06; p < 0.001; d = 0.42), arm curl (t = -12.10; p < 0.001; d = 0.58), 2 min step test (t = -9.41; p < 0.001; d = 0.24), timed up and go test (t = 5.60; p < 0.001; d = 0.19), and hand grip strength (t = -3.33; p < 0.001; d = 0.15) were observed. There were also significant differences in the back scratch (t = -6.68; p < 0.001; d = 0.18) and chair sit and reach test (t = 5.04; p < 0.001; d = 0.05), as well as body mass index (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found between groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: This study provides evidence that a 24-week low-cost community-based exercise program can improve functional fitness in aged and in older adults. The exercise program supplied the necessary data to construct further randomized controlled trials that can be performed in the community in an environmentally sustainable fashion and applied, not only to the elderly, but also to those transitioning to this age group.

Symptoms of Sarcopenia and Physical Fitness through the Senior Fitness Test.

Physical fitness concerns a set of attributes related to the ability to perform physical activity that may justify the symptoms reported by the elderly in the context of sarcopenia. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the perception (symptomatology) of physical functioning (what the person thinks they are capable of) and the capacity itself for physical functioning in elderly people in northern Brazil. Cross-sectional study that analyzed 312 elderly people (72.6 ± 7.8 years) from the city of Novo Aripuanã, Amazonas, Brazil. Sarcopenia symptomatology was assessed using the SARC-F, a 5-item questionnaire designed for screening sarcopenia in older individuals in five domains: strength, walking aids, difficulty getting up from a chair, difficulty climbing stairs, and falls. Physical fitness was assessed by the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) battery including balance evaluated with the short version of the Fullerton Advanced Balance scale (FAB). ROC curve analysis revealed that the tests with the greatest ability to discriminate participants with significant symptoms for sarcopenia (≥4 points on SARC-F) were arm curl and 6 min walk: the probability of suspected sarcopenia increased exponentially with an arm curl < 11.5 reps for men (se = 71%; sp = 69%; AUC = 0.706, 95% CI: 0.612-0.788; p = 0.013) and women (se = 81%; sp = 51%; AUC = 0.671, 95% CI: 0.601-0.735; p ≤ 0.001) or with a 6-min walk <408.5 m for men (se = 71%; sp = 63%; AUC = 0.720, 95% CI: 0.628-0.690; p = 0.001) and <366.0 m for women (se = 69%; sp = 58%; AUC = 0.692, 95% CI: 0.623-0.755; p = 0.0001). Physical fitness assessed through the senior fitness test, particularly the 30-s-arm curl test and the 6-min walk test, can discriminate for suspected symptoms of sarcopenia.

Can Low Intensity Strength Training Alone for Older Females Improve Cardiovascular and Functional Fitness?

BACKGROUND Maintaining muscle mass and an efficient cardiovascular system is vital for healthy aging.OBJECTIVES This study investigates if a low intensity senior strength exercise program for the older females can have an effect cardiovascular function and improve senior functional fitness.METHODS There were 22 older females, randomly divided into a strength exercise (age: 72.18 ± 4.97 yrs; height: 1.54 ± 0.06 m; weight: 58.02 ± 7.29 kg; BMI:24.43 ± 2.69 kg/m2) and control group (age: 77.63 ± 4.96 yrs; height: 1.51 ± 0.05 m; weight: 53.66 ± 6.62 kg; BMI:23.54 ± 2.22 kg/m2). The strength exercise group participated three times per week for 20 weeks, while the control group did not do any additional treatment or exercise. Participants were tested pre and post strength exercise, and the data were statistically analyzed using two-way repeated measures Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), with a significance level of p &lt;0.05.RESULTS The results show significant differences (p&lt;0.001) in homocysteine levels, with an interaction effect between time and group. There were no differences in changes in erythrocyte sedimentation rate between groups (p=0.050). There was an interaction effect (p&lt;0.001) for the six components of the senior fitness test and between group and time in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and pulse pressure.CONCLUSION In conclusion the results suggest that low intensity strength exercise program can improved cardiovascular fitness related variables, and homocysteine, as well as functional fitness, blood pressure, heart rate and pulse pressure.

Association between Physical Fitness and Perceived Well-Being in Functionally Independent Community Dwelling Elderly of North-Eastern India.

Regular physical activity helps in independent living, prevention of chronic health problems and quality of life in the elderly. The aim of the study is to determinewhether physical fitness is associated with multiple dimensions of well-being in the community dwelling elderly. A community-based cross-sectional study was undertaken to assess the physical fitness and perceived wellness in 400 elderly (≥65 years) subjects. The Senior Fitness Test (SFT) for assessing functional/physical fitness and Perceived Wellness Survey (PWS) were used to assess their well-being. Bivariate correlation analysis was used for individual testsand multiple linear regressions were used to analyze relationship of wellness composite score with physical fitness test. 284men and 116 women (mean ages 69.80±3.82 and67.25±2.57 years, respectively) were assessed for physical fitness tests and perceived wellness.'Arm-curl' and 'chair-sit' testsshowedlinear decrease in strength with increasing age. In 'back-scratch' and 'chair-sit and reach' tests lower limb flexibility was better than upper limb in all except the 65-69 year sub-group. Maximum time to perform the '8-feet up-and-go' test increased progressively with age, whereas '2-minute step' test showed a linear decrease in mean score with advancing age. Wellness composite score (14.54±2.31) inmaleswas maximum in the 75-79 year age-group, while in females it (15.26±2.29) was maximum in the 70-74 year age-group. Correlation analysis of physical fitness test with perception of wellness (composite score) showed significant association of 'arm-curl' test (p=0.012), 'back-scratch' test (p=0.0002), '8-feet up-and-go' test (p=0.005), '2-minute step' test (p=0.005) with the composite wellness score in the male participants, whereas in the females such significance was observed only in the '2 minute step' test (p=0.007) with the wellness score. Screening of physical fitness and wellness are important measures in assessing wellness of community dwelling elderly, and in predicting theiroverall state of well-being, including age-specific comparison of fitness performance and wellness score.

Satisfaction with Life and Nutritional Behaviour, Body Composition, and Functional Fitness of Women from the Kraków Population Participating in the "Healthy Active Senior" Programme.

Pro-health behaviours are related to a person's personal resources. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between satisfaction with life (SWL), nutritional behaviours, somatic indices, and functional efficiency of senior women. The research was conducted among 120 women aged 60-84 (Me = 65) participating in the "Healthy Active Senior" project at the University of Physical Education in Kraków. The Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) and the proprietary validated questionnaire of nutritional behaviour were used. Body composition was assessed using the method of bioelectrical impedance (TANITA SC-330ST analyser), while physical fitness was evaluated via the Senior Fitness test (Fullerton Functional Fitness Test). Correlations between the variables were measured by implementing Spearman's R signed-rank correlation coefficients (with p < 0.05). Positive correlations between SWL and selected nutrition behaviours have been demonstrated, including eating 5-6 meals (p < 0.001) and drinking at least 2 litres of fluids a day (p = 0.023), consuming cereal products daily, including whole-grains (p = 0.001), avoiding alcoholic beverages (p = 0.030), and applying vitamin D supplementation (p = 0.010). At the same time, negative correlations between SWL and limiting the consumption of red as well as processed meats (p = 0.002), animal fats (p = 0.046), and the preference for vegetable oils in one's diet (p = 0.023) were shown. Significant correlations between satisfaction with life and two indicators of functional fitness were also confirmed: negative-with the variable '2.44-m Get-Up and Go' (p = 0.003); and positive-with the '2-Minute Step in Place' test (p = 0.034). The relationships between SWL and somatic indices did not reach the level of statistical significance. Among the women participating in the "Healthy Active Senior" programme, correlations between SWL and rational nutritional behaviours, as well as indices of functional fitness, were found (mostly positive), while the trends in these areas were not fully unambiguous, suggesting the validity of conducting further research.

Effect of the Active Aging-in-Place-Rehabilitation Nursing Program: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

(1) Background: It is of great importance to promote functional capacity and positive lifestyles, since they contribute to preventing the progression of frailty among the older adults. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of active aging-in-place−rehabilitation nursing program (AAP-RNP) on the functional capacity and lifestyles of frail older adults. (2) Methods: This was a single-blinded, two-group, randomized, controlled trial of 30 frail older people enrolled at a Health-care unit in Portugal between 2021 and 2022. The duration of the program was 12 weeks, and the sessions took place at the participants’ homes. We used as instruments the Tilburg Frailty Indicator; Fried frailty phenotype; Senior Fitness Test battery; Barthel Index; Lawton Index; handgrip strength measurement; Tinetti Index; Individual lifestyle profile; and Borg’s perception of effort. (3) Results: Post-program, there was an improvement in multidimensional and physical frailty, functional capacity, balance, and perceived exertion (p < 0.05) in the experimental group. Among the older adults’ lifestyles, we observed significant improvements in physical activity habits, relational behavior, and stress management. (4) Conclusions: Rehabilitation nurses have a relevant role, and the AAP-RNP seems to be effective in improving functional capacity and lifestyles in frail older adults.

An Exergame-Integrated IoT-Based Ergometer System Delivers Personalized Training Programs for Older Adults and Enhances Physical Fitness: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction: Regular physical exercise is believed to counteract the adverse physiological consequences of aging. However, smart fitness equipment specifically designed for older adults is quite rare. Here we designed an exergame-integrated internet of things (IoT)-based ergometer system (EIoT-ergo) that delivers personalized exercise prescriptions for older adults. First, physical fitness was evaluated using the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) application. Then, radio frequency identification (RFID) triggered the EIoT-ergo to deliver the corresponding exercise session based on the individual level of physical fitness. The exercise intensity during each workout was measured to generate the next exercise session. Further, EIoT-ergo provides an exergame to help users control and maintain their optimal cadence while engaging in exercise. Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial with 1:1 randomization. Participants were older adults, 50+ years of age (N = 35), who are active in their community. Participants in the EIoT-ergo group received a 12-week personalized exercise program delivered by EIoT-ergo for 30 min per session, with 2 sessions per week. Participants in the control group continued with their usual activities. A senior’s fitness test and a health questionnaire were assessed at baseline and at a 13-week reassessment. The Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST) was used to evaluate the satisfaction of EIoT-ergo. Results: Compared with the control group, the EIoT-ergo group showed significant improvements in muscle strength (time-by-group interaction, sit-to-stand: β = 5.013, p < 0.001), flexibility (back stretch: β = 4.008, p = 0.005; and sit-and-reach: β = 4.730, p = 0.04), and aerobic endurance (2-min step: β = 9.262, p = 0.03). The body composition was also improved in the EIoT-ergo group (body mass index: β = −0.737, p < 0.001; and skeletal muscle index: β = 0.268, p = 0.03). Satisfaction with EIoT-ergo was shown in QUEST, with an average score of 4.4 ± 0.32 (5 for very satisfied). The percentage maximum heart rate in each session also indicated that EIoT-ergo can gradually build up the exercise intensity of users. Conclusions: EIoT-ergo was developed to provide personal identification, exergames, intelligent exercise prescriptions, and remote monitoring, as well as to significantly enhance the physical fitness of the elderly individuals under study.

Why have people with dementia problems with walking and balance?

Introduction: The walking performance and the balance are elements that change by people with dementia even before the diagnosis -dementia – is established. The reason is still a mystery, still there are investigations that think on an increase of pathological neurological increasing tone -paratonia. Investigations of that tone-increase are done in the beginning of this disease but mostly in a sitting-relax- position. But then is often a slight or even no increase present, but to know the impact, the tone measurement should be measure when people are performed this activity. Method: To invest the impact of movements by people with dementia, we have taken the Rikli and Jones - Senior Fitness Test- by 35 participant with the diagnosis dementia. Further we did tests as the B.B.S., Tinetti, Statiek test and the tone measurement -Mas-P when walking or immediately after in stand or when stand was no option in sit. Results: All participants give a worse results on the elements, balance, speed and walking and scored almost equal with age equal persons without dementia on the other items. The other tests (B.B.S., Tinetti, Statiek test) were also lesser and all had a higher tone when this measurement was done immediately after the walking/balance performance and certainly when they are doing the performance. Conclusion: The impact of the pathological neurological tone (paratonia) was evident in this investigation of 35 people with dementia. The tone was the most important factor that interfered with the speed, walking and balance performance. But this asked for further investigation what walking and balance do with the tone of people with dementia. Further is it a question of an treatment as fall prevention on the way given now, has an effect or maybe has an negative influence on the balance performance. To get a better treatment than must the tone decrease, to get the possibilities of selectivity and speed possible and that is only possible in an gravity decreasing environment as par example water. That should be THE therapy that can slowdown the disease and stimulated the balance performance much longer than when the situation has to deal with gravity and thus an increase tone. Why have people with dementia problems with walking and balance? Authorship Credit: “Criteria authorship scientific article” has been used “Equal Contribution” (EC)

Effect of Chair Suryanamaskar with Strength Training on Functional Fitness in Frail Older Adults: A Research Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial

Introduction: Physical frailty is a syndrome characterised by deterioration in multiple physiological domains, including muscle mass and strength, flexibility, balance, neuromuscular coordination, and cardiovascular function. Evidence suggests that regular exercise provides substantial health benefits, reducing the risk of many chronic diseases and medical costs, especially for frail older adults. However, the effect of exercise on functional status in this population is not well explored. Need of the study: Population aging in India is rapidly accelerating, and frailty is a significant clinical condition associated with aging. Frailty increases the risk of institutionalisation, morbidity, and mortality. Regular exercise has been shown to improve functional fitness in older adults, but exercises performed while standing unaided can be challenging for individuals with compromised balance and mobility. Chair Suryanamaskar, a form of exercise performed while seated, may be an alternative mode of exercise for this population. Although aerobic and resistance exercises have shown benefits, there is growing interest in exploring the potential benefits of a multicomponent intervention for frail older adults. Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of chair Suryanamaskar with strength training on functional fitness in community-dwelling frail older adults. Materials and Methods: The study will be conducted from March 2021 to March 2024. This two-group parallel singleblind randomised controlled trial will take place at MAEER's Physiotherapy College in TalegaonDabhade, Maharashtra, India. Approximately 400 older adults will be screened for frailty using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) test. Participants with an SPPB score ≤7 will be considered frail and a total of 108 participants aged 65-84 years will be recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The participants will be equally divided into two groups (54 participants in each group) using computer-generated random tables. The experimental group (group A) will receive a 45-minute Chair Suryanamaskar with strength training protocol three times a week for 12 weeks. Before the study begins, participants will have two practice sessions of 20 minutes each to become familiar with Chair Suryanamaskar. The control group (group B) will participate in two 20-minute health education program sessions and receive weekly telephonic follow-ups to monitor for adverse events. Additionally, a health education program booklet will be provided. The primary outcome of the study is the Senior Fitness Test (SFT). Assessments will be conducted at baseline (0 weeks) and post-intervention (12 weeks). Intentionto-treat analyses with mixed linear modeling will be used for statistical analysis.

여성 노인의 대사증후군 예방을 위한 적정 신체구성성분 및 체력수준의 임계값 분석

The purpose of this study is to analyze the appropriate body composition and senior fitness level for the prevention of metabolic syndrome in elderly women. Participant in this study divided into two groups, metabolic syndrome and normal elderly groups. All participants in this study were subjected to body composition test and elderly-specific physical fitness test. Blood pressure, blood glucose, triglycerides, and HDL-c were also measured. An independent t test was performed to compare the variables of the two groups. The ROC curve was used to analyze the threshold values of optimal body composition and senior fitness level for the prevention of metabolic syndrome. The results were following, There were differences in body weight, BMI, and body fat percentage between the two groups, but there was no difference in muscle mass. In addition, it was confirmed that the relative hand grip strength was a statistically significant level of cut off value among all the senior fitness test variables. It has been confirmed that an appropriate body mass index is essential to prevent metabolic syndrome in elderly women, and we insist that exercise program that can increase the relative hand grip strength should be provided.

Tai chi exercise is better than low-intensity steady-state cardio for improving physical fitness and sleep quality in the elderly

The condition of elderly is a condition with decreased function both anatomically and physiologically. The problem is the lack of participation of the elderly in exercise due to motivational factors, physical conditions, and attitudes of the elderly towards this type of exercise. This study aims to prove that tai chi is better than low-intensity steady-state cardio in improving the physical fitness and sleep quality of the elderly. The method used in this study is quantitative inferential using a two-group experimental design. This study examined as many as 40 older adults as subjects. The Physical fitness was collected using a senior fitness test instrument, and sleep quality was collected using a sleep quality questionnaire entitled the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The data analysis technique was paired sample t-test and independent t-test. The results showed that tai chi exercise was better than low-intensity steady-state cardio for increasing flexibility (p&lt;0,05), muscle strength in the upper and lower extremities (p&lt;0,05), and improving coordination and balance abilities (p&lt;0,05). At the same time, the low-intensity steady state is better than tai chi exercise in improving cardiovascular ability (p&lt;0,05). Tai chi exercise is better than the low-intensity steady-state cardio method for improving sleep quality (p&lt;0,05). The conclusion is that tai chi exercise is better than the low-intensity steady state in improving physical fitness and sleep quality in the elderly group.

Normative values and integrated score of functional fitness among Chinese community-dwelling older adults in Suzhou.

Objectives: This study was performed to establish the normative values and integrated score of the functional fitness on the basis of the senior fitness test (SFT) among Chinese community-dwelling older adults in Suzhou. Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 1,122 community-dwelling older adults aged 60years old and above were recruited at Suzhou, China, by using a multistage stratified sampling method and accepted the SFT measurements. Sex- and age-specific normative values of each index of the SFT were established by using the percentile method. The SFT integrated score was established using factor analysis according to the data of 70% of the participants (construction group) and verified using the error rate from the data of the remaining 30% of the participants (verification group). Results: Normative-referenced percentile values at the 5th, 10th, 25th, 35th, 50th, 65th, 75th, 90th, and 95th percentiles for each index of SFT were established for the men and women among the different age groups. Five indices of the SFT, namely, 2-min step test, 30-s arm curl, 30-s chair stand, chair sit-and-reach, and 8-ft up-and-go (TUGT), gradually declined with age in both sexes (p < .05). The SFT integrated score was calculated as follows: F = 3.8 × 2-min step test + 3.8 × 30-s arm curl + 3.8 × 30-s chair stand + 2.2 × back starch + 2.6 × chair sit-and-reach + 4 × TUGT - .04 × BMI. The formula was verified using the error rate. The error rates of the verification group compared with the construction group in each grade score of SFT were lower than 5%. Conclusion: Based on the data from the community-dwelling older adults in Suzhou, China, the functional fitness normative values for each index of the SFT and the integrated score of SFT were established. The SFT integrated score formula was verified to be reasonable and effective.

Muscle Strength, Physical Fitness, Balance, and Walking Ability at Risk of Fall for Prefrail Older People.

This study was to explore the relationship of older adults' demographic information, physiological indices, and stages of frailty with their risk of falling. In the cross-sectional study, a total of 221 older adults with the mean age 74.9 (SD = 6.8) years old were surveyed by senior fitness test. Results were observed in terms of participants' physical fitness, with significant differences being observed in the correlations of left-hand grip strength (t = 5.05, p < .000), right-hand grip strength (t = 6.03, p < .000), and total grip strength (t = 5.70, p < .000), time up and go test (t = -6.25, p < .000), and 30-sec chair stand test (t = 7.19, p < .000) with the risk of falling. According to the logistic regression analysis results, long-term medication (OR = 0.12, 95% CI =0.02-0.62, p < .01) and right-hand grip strength (OR = 0.86, 95% CI =0.76-0.97, p < .01) are the main predictors of older adults' risk of falling. Older females with low education, history of falls, weaker grip strengths; taking longer to finish the TUG test; and standing fewer times during the 30-second chair stand test were at risk of fall. In prediction, older people using long-term medication were at lower risk of falling, and the greater the hand grip strength was, the lower the fall risk was. According to the research results, nursing personnel must develop care programs and improve older adults' risk of falls.

Gradual Strength Training Improves Sleep Quality, Physical Function and Pain in Women with Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by chronic and generalized musculoskeletal pain. There is currently no cure for FM, but alternative treatments are available. Among them, gradual strength training programs (ST) which on daily activities are a valid option to improve some of the pronounced symptoms of FM that affect quality of life, such as fatigue, pain, sleep quality, and physical function. However, there is a need for more information on optimal training programs to improve anxiety and fatigue symptoms. To analyze the effects of a 24-week gradual and progressive ST on sleep quality, fatigue, pain domains, physical function, and anxiety-state. 41 women with FM participated in the 24 weeks of intervention based on gradual and progressive ST. Two, 60 min, training sessions per week were con-ducted. Participants were evaluated before the ST program (week 0), in week 12 and at the end of the ST program (week 24). The Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire was used to assess sleep quality and fatigue scales. Anxiety-state was evaluated with the State Anxiety Inventory, and pain domains by means of the Brief Pain Inventory. Senior Fitness Test was used for physical function measurements. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to assess the mean differences between phases, and Spearman's correlations were used to assess the associations between physical and psychological symptoms, and physical function. The results demonstrated that 24 weeks of ST improves physical function, sleep quality and pain domains (p ≤ 0.05). Higher anxiety and pain interference scores were related to worsening physical function. Gradual ST significantly improves sleep quality, pain, and physical function, but not anxiety and fatigue.

Predictors of fear of falling among community-dwelling older adults: Cross-sectional study from Palestine.

Fear of falling has serious implications for health and is an important threat to autonomy. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate risk factors for fear of falling among Palestinian older adults in Hebron district. A cross-sectional study was conducted among Palestinians > 60 years living in Hebron, West Bank. The Falls Efficacy Scale-International was used to predict falls among Palestinian older adults. Moreover, socio-demographic data, medical history, lifestyle habits, body composition, nutritional status, cognitive status (using the Montreal cognitive assessment tool), and functional status (using activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living scale), the presence of depressive symptoms (using geriatric depression scale), and physical fitness performance (using senior fitness test) were collected through an interview-based questionnaire. Data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate approach. A total of 200 participants were included in the study; 137 (68.5%) females and 63 (31.5%) males. Mean age was 70.5 ± 5.7 years, ranged from 65 to 98 years old. Fear of falling was significantly higher among older adults with advanced aged, living in villages or camps, low educational level, and being married (p < 0.05). Functional status (ADL and IADL), physical fitness status (timed up and go), and depression symptoms were significantly related to fear of falling (p < 0.05). High concern of falling is significantly associated with advanced age, low education level, being married, and living in villages or camps. ADLs were among the factors that had a significant relationship with increased fear of falling. Predictors of fear of falling among Palestinian older adults were IADL scores, body fat percentage, rapid gait speed, timed up and go test. Future studies could investigate further correlates of fear of falling among older adults.

Phase Angle as a Predictor for Physical Function in Institutionalized Independent Older Adults.

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between phase angle (PhA) and physical function in institutionalized, independent older adults. Physical function was evaluated using the Senior Fitness Test Battery. PhA was measured by electrical bioimpedance at 50 khz, and body composition parameters were also registered. Results showed that PhA significantly correlated with all physical fitness tests, except for arm curls. Regarding the results of the multivariate analysis, three models were created: Model 1, formed by a dependent variable "PhA" and two predictor variables "8 ft up-and-go" and "6 min walk"; Model 2, formed by a dependent variable "PhA" and three predictor variables "8 ft up-and-go", "6 min walk" and "30-s chair stand"; and Model 3, formed by a dependent variable "PhA" and four predictor variables "8 ft up-and-go", "6 min walk", "30-s chair stand" and "arm curl". Results showed that predictor variables had a significant influence on the PhA for all three models (Model 1: p = 0.001, 12.5%; Model 2: p = 0.002, 12.9%; and Model 3: p = 0.005, 13.1%). For women, Model 1 showed a significant influence of predictor variables on the PhA (p = 0.030, 9.3%). The results for men in Models 1, 2 and 3 showed significant influences on the PhA (p = 0.002, 31.2%; p = 0.006, 31.6%; and p = 0.016, 31.6%; respectively). This study confirmed previous studies regarding to the relationship between PhA and physical function. It also indicates that PhA could be an excellent predictor of physical function.

Effect of Intake of Leucine-Rich Protein Supplement in Parallel with Resistance Exercise on the Body Composition and Function of Healthy Adults.

Although sarcopenia has been dealt with in several studies, the standardized guidelines for preventing sarcopenia resulting from increased life expectancy are still insufficient. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of daily resistance exercise and the intake of leucine-rich protein supplements daily for 12 weeks on the body composition and physical function of healthy adults aged &gt;50 years living in Korea. The study analyzed 50 healthy people without medical conditions, who were randomly assigned to two groups (taking either protein powder or placebo powder) twice a day for 12 weeks. All participants performed resistance exercises regularly that could be repeated 8-12 times using a TheraBand for 12 weeks. A total of 41 participants completed the study. When measured via bioimpedance analysis (BIA), body fat mass (kg) and body fat (%) significantly decreased, and lean body mass (LBM) (kg) and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) (kg) significantly increased, in both groups. However, when measured via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), LBM was significantly increased only in the protein powder group. The LBM and SMM change measured via BIA was significantly greater in the protein powder group than in the placebo powder group (LBM: 0.95 ± 0.91 kg in the protein powder group vs. 0.38 ± 1.06 kg in the placebo powder group, p = 0.043; SMM: 0.69 ± 0.58 kg in the protein powder group vs. 0.29 ± 0.65 kg in the placebo powder group, p = 0.039, respectively). In the senior fitness test (SFT), significant functional improvement was found within the two groups, but no significant difference was found between the groups in the degree of improvement. In conclusion, in older people aged &gt;50, to prevent sarcopenia, is more effective to combine resistance exercise and leucine-rich protein supplementation than to simply perform resistance exercise.