Change in functional status and body composition in institutionalized elderly
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abstract
The decrease on muscular strength, flexibility and balance are widely recognized as the main causes of disability in older people. A better knowledge of these variables can help to plan programs for active aging.Objective – To assess physical functioning, body composition and fear of falling and analyze these dimensions on the aging process. Methods – This is a longitudinal descriptive-correlational study. The sample comprise 51 institutionalized elderly followed for two years. The data collection took place between 2011 May and June (first evaluation) and 2013 April and May (2nd) using a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire, the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), the Rikli & Jones protocol, hand dynamometry and bioelectrical impedance for body composition.Results – Results show significant differences in fear of falling and in all components of physical fitness (agility, flexibility, muscular strength and balance) between the two moments of evaluation. In physical functioning, we highlight the moderate negative correlation between lower extremities muscle strength and the results of the Up and Go test. Was observed a significant decline in functional capacity of the elderly over the two years in analysis. Conclusions – The results suggest significant changes in two years, especially in the variables related to muscular function and flexibility. The results do not reflect significant changes in body composition between assessments, however, point to a reduction in bone mass and total muscle mass.
