Risk of sarcopenia and mobility of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: the longitudinal data from the REMOBILIZE study.

BACKGROUND: We assessed whether clinical, functional and behavioral factors were associated with the decrease in mobility trajectories reported in older people at risk of sarcopenia (RS) and without risk of sarcopenia (NRS) during COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: We prospectively analyzed mobility trajectories reported in older adults with RS and NRS over 16-month follow-up (Remobilize study). The self-perceived risk of sarcopenia and mobility were assessed using the SARC-F and the Life-Space Assessment (LSA) tools, respectively. Gender, age, comorbidities, pain, functional limitation, physical activity (time spent in walking; min/week), and sitting time (ST; hours/day) were assessed. We used a multilevel model to determine changes in mobility between groups and over time. RESULTS: Mobility was lower in RS than in NRS. Older people at RS, who were women, aged 70-79 years and 80 years or older, inactive, and with moderate to severe functional limitation experienced reduced mobility trajectories reported over the pandemic. For older people at NRS, trajectories with reduce mobility reported were experienced by women with comorbidities, for those with insufficient walking time and aged 70-79 years; aged 70-79 years and with ST between 5 and 7 hours/day; for those with insufficient walking time and increased ST; and for those with pain and increased ST. CONCLUSION: Mobility trajectories reported in older people at risk of sarcopenia were negatively influenced by insufficient level of physical inactivity and pre-existing moderate to severe functional limitation. Health and social interventions should be target to avoid mobility limitation during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Intrinsic capacity and hospitalization among older adults: a nationally representative cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: Monitoring intrinsic capacity (IC) in community-dwelling older people can be potentially used to alert for adverse health outcomes. However, whether there is an association between IC and hospitalization has yet to be fully explored. This study aimed to investigate the association of the IC composite measure and its 5 domains with hospitalization in the previous year and length of hospital stay. METHODS: We conducted cross-sectional analyses using data from a representative sample of community-dwelling adults (≥ 65 years). We assessed the IC domains (vitality, locomotor, cognitive, sensory, and psychological) using validated self-reported information and performance tests. We calculated standardized estimated scores (z scores) for IC composite measure and domains and conducted multivariate logistic and ordinal regressions. The primary outcomes were hospitalizations in the previous year and length of hospital stay. RESULTS: In a sample of 5354 participants (mean age = 73 ± 6 years), we found that participants with high IC composite z scores were less likely to have experienced hospitalization in the previous year (OR = 0.51; 95% CI = 0.44-0.58). Among those who were hospitalized, high IC scores were associated with short stays (OR = 0.87; 95% CI = 0.80-0.95). Cognitive and psychological domains were associated with hospitalizations, and the locomotor domain was related to length of hospital stay. The vitality domain was associated with both outcomes. CONCLUSION: IC as a composite measure was associated with previous hospitalizations and length of stay. IC can help clinicians identify older people prone to adverse outcomes, prompting preventive integrated care interventions.

Equilíbrio postural e fatores associados ao risco de quedas em idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 / Postural balance and associated factors with the fall risk assessed in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Resumo Objetivo Identificar os fatores clínico-funcionais associados ao risco de quedas, avaliado pelo Mini-BESTest, em idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2). Método Trata-se de um estudo transversal. Um total de 145 idosos com idade =60 anos foram avaliados por meio das variáveis sociodemográficas (sexo, faixa etária, estado civil, nível de educação e percepção geral da saúde, audição e visão) Mini-BESTest, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Escala de Depressão Geriátrica (GDS-15) e o teste Timed Up and Go (TUG) (dupla tarefa). Foi utilizado um modelo de regressão logística múltipla. Resultados O domínio de orientação sensorial apresentou a pontuação média mais elevada, seguido pelos domínios estabilidade na marcha, ajustes posturais antecipatórios e respostas posturais. Os fatores associados ao risco de quedas em idosos foram: percepção visual ruim/muito ruim OR 3.40 (1,50-7,72); presença de doenças respiratórias OR 8.00 (1,32-48,46); sensação de tontura OR 2.53 (1,10-5,80); e tempo do teste Timed Up and Go (TUG) (dupla tarefa) igual ou superior a 13,5 segundos OR 3.31 (1,03-10,64). Conclusão Os idosos deste estudo apresentaram um equilíbrio postural comprometido, principalmente no domínio das respostas posturais. O conhecimento dos fatores associados ao risco de quedas em idosos com DM2 permite uma orientação mais eficaz na avaliação, prevenção e intervenção, visando minimizar a ocorrência de quedas e preservar ou otimizar o equilíbrio postural. Diversos fatores influenciaram esse resultado, tais como sobrepeso, baixa atividade física e nível educacional, várias comorbidades, polifarmácia, diagnóstico de DM2 por mais de dez anos, percepção negativa da saúde geral e da visão, e sintomas depressivos.

Abstract Objective Identify clinical-functional factors associated to the risk of falls, assessed by Mini-BESTest in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Method This cross-sectional study. A total of 145 older adults aged ≥60 years were evaluated through sociodemographic variables (sex, age group, married, education level, general health status hearing and vision), Mini-BESTest, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) and dual-task Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) Multiple logistic regression model was used. Results The sensory orientation domain presented the highest average score, followed by the gait stability, anticipatory postural adjustments and postural responses domains. Factors associated to the risk of falls in older adults are: poor/very poor visual perception OR 3.40 (1.50-7.72); have respiratory diseases OR 8.00 (1.32-48.46); feeling dizzy OR 2.53 (1.10-5.80); and TUGT (dual task) time equal to or greater than 13.5 seconds OR 3.31 (1.03-10.64). Conclusion Older adults in this study presented impaired postural balance, mainly in the postural responses domain. The knowledge of the factors associated with the risk of falls in older adults with T2DM allows for better guidance in prevention, assessment and intervention, in order to minimize the occurrence of falls and maintain or optimize postural balance. Several factors influenced this outcome, such as overweight, low physical activity and education, several comorbidities, polypharmacy, T2DM diagnosis for more than ten years, negative perception of general health and vision, and depressive symptoms.

Effects of two different dual-task training protocols on gait, balance, and cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults: a 24-week randomized controlled trial.

Background: Although alternating dual-task (ADT) training is functionally easier for older adults, a large part of the motor and cognitive tasks is simultaneously performed, especially during activities of daily living that require maintaining body balance. Objective: To evaluate the effects of mixed dual-task training on mobility, cognitive function, and balance in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: Sixty participants were randomly allocated at a 1:1 ratio into the experimental group-single motor task (SMT) and simultaneous dual task (SDT) interchangeably in stage 1 (for 12 weeks) and after strictly with SDT in stage 2 (the last 12 weeks)-or into the control group-only SMT and SDT interchangeably in stages 1 and 2. Gait parameters were acquired by two inertial sensors. Physical and cognitive performance were acquired by specific questionnaires. Generalized linear mixed models were used for analyzing interaction and main effects. Results: No between-group difference was observed for gait performance. Both protocols improved mobility (mean change ((MC) = 0.74)), dual-task effect (MC = -13.50), lower limb function (MC = 4.44), static (MC = -0.61), and dynamic balance (MC = -0.23), body sway (MC = 4.80), and cognitive function (MC = 41.69). Conclusion: Both dual-task training protocols improved these outcomes.

Factors associated with unrecovered falls among older adults.

This cross-sectional exploratory study investigated factors associated with unrecovered falls among older patients with a history of falls in the previous year participating in a clinical trial on fall prevention by asking them about their inability to get up independently after the fall. Participants' sociodemographic, clinical, functional (ADL/IADL, TUG, chair-stand test, hand grip, risk of falling) and fall location were investigated. We conducted a multivariate regression analysis adjusted for covariates to identify the main factors associated with unrecovered falls. Out of 715 participants (mean age: 73.4 years; 86% women), 51.6% (95% IC; 47.9 - 55.3%) experienced unrecovered falls. Depressive symptoms, ADL/IADL limitation, mobility limitation, undernutrition, and outdoor falls were associated with unrecovered falls. While assessing the risk of falling, professionals should consider preventive strategies and preparedness procedures for those who are more likely to experience unrecovered falls, such as training to get up from the floor, alarms, and support services.

Como direcionar a formação do fisioterapeuta em Gerontologia no Brasil diante do envelhecimento populacional? / How to direct the training of physiotherapists in Gerontology in Brazil in the face of population aging?

O rápido envelhecimento populacional brasileiro mudou nosso cenário de saúde, o que exige que o profissional fisioterapeuta esteja preparado para lidar com as especificidades desta população. A Associação Brasileira de Fisioterapia em Gerontologia (ABRAFIGE), que tem a missão de fortalecer a especialidade e promover assistência qualificada em Fisioterapia em Gerontologia, propõe uma relação das competências fundamentais para formação no ensino nos cursos de graduação em Fisioterapia e de pósgraduação lato sensu em Fisioterapia em Gerontologia. Essa iniciativa visa auxiliar os gestores das Instituições de Ensino Superior das diversas regiões brasileiras no planejamento de tais cursos de forma a melhorar a qualidade da formação dos fisioterapeutas nessa área.

The rapid aging of the Brazilian population has changed the health scenario. Such a change requires physiotherapists to be prepared to deal with the specificities of this population. The Associação Brasileira de Fisioterapia em Gerontologia - ABRAFIGE (Brazilian Association of Physical Therapy in Gerontology), which has the mission of strengthening the specialty and the purpose of promoting qualified assistance in physical therapy in gerontology, proposes fundamental skills for training in teaching in undergraduate and graduate courses in physical therapy in gerontology. This initiative aims to assist administrators at higher education institutions in different regions of Brazil in the planning of such courses to improve the quality of the education of physiotherapists in this field.

Research utilisation in older people care: Translation, cross-cultural adaptation and validation of instruments into Brazilian Portuguese.

AIMS: To translate and culturally validate the Estabrooks' Kinds of Research Utilization (RU) and the Conceptual Research Utilization Scale (CRU) into Brazilian Portuguese; and to describe the research use by health professionals working on Long Term Care Institutions (LTCI) for older people. BACKGROUND: Research utilisation ensures greater quality and effectiveness in the care provided by health professionals. However, there are no instruments to evaluate research utilisation in Latin America countries, like Brazil. MATERIALS & METHODS: A methodological cross-sectional questionnaire validity and descriptive study. The translation and adaptation of the instruments was performed in seven steps following psychometric guidelines. The instruments evaluate research utilisation by health professionals in clinical practice. The RU is composed of single-items of instrumental, persuasive, conceptual and overall forms; and the CRU the conceptual form through a 5-item scale. Professionals of technical level and graduated working in nine LTCI were evaluated from August to December 2018. Descriptive and inferential (reliability, correlation, internal consistency and structure of CRU) analyses were conducted. RESULTS: Sample composed of 117 professionals, 67.5% of healthcare aides and 32.5% of graduated health professionals. All forms of research utilisation showed high implementation in practice (about 75% of the time, or frequently). CRU internal consistency (α = 0.885) and structure were adequate. There were significant correlations between RU and CRU (from very low r = 0.187 to high r = 0.712). Intra-rater, inter-rater and alternate forms reliability ranged from moderate to substantial. CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian versions of the RU and the CRU are valid, reliable and acceptable for evaluating research utilisation by professionals working on LTCI. It is of great relevance to introduce these instruments in low- and middle-income countries to have future data on how much older people care is influenced by the best evidence available. These instruments can be adapted to different healthcare settings and populations.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mobility of older adults: A scoping review.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To identify the most frequent determinants of contact limitation on older adults' mobility addressed by the recommendations to mitigate mobility limitation during the COVID-19 pandemic and identify the recommendations characteristics and means of dissemination that might guide coping actions. BACKGROUND: Measures for physical contact restriction were implemented to prevent COVID-19 spread. These measures directly impacted older people, reducing their mobility, especially outside home environment. Health systems worldwide need to be prepared to implement strategies to mitigate negative effects of reduced mobility in this population. DESIGN: Scoping review using Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework. METHOD: Therefore, a scoping review was conducted in LILACS, CINAHL, MEDLINE, WEB OF SCIENCE and SCOPUS databases. Documents and reports with recommendations from government agencies were also consulted. Results were presented in a narrative synthesis based on a conceptual model of mobility proposed by Webber (The Gerontologist, 2010, 50, 443) regarding the most frequently addressed determinants, characteristics of the proposed interventions, and means of dissemination for the older person population. FINDINGS: Twenty-eight studies were selected for the final sample. According to Webber's model, most articles (n = 14) presented the impacts on mobility from the perspective of physical determinants, relating this aspect to biological losses in the musculoskeletal system, and a minority assessed mobility in vital spaces, encompassing environmental (n = 3) and financial (n = 1) determinants. Also, the most frequent recommendation was that physical activity promotes maintenance of mobility and prevents the occurrence of adverse results, such as falls, fractures and functional decline. As to dissemination, digital technologies were recognised as a strategy to motivate, instruct and monitor exercise practice to increase mobility in older adults. CONCLUSION: The main conditions related to the decline in mobility of older adults during COVID-19 pandemic were physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyle. The practice of physical activity is widespread and needs to be adapted according to individual needs. Finally, digital technologies are essential tools in this period, but other alternatives should also be considered for low-income seniors. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: It is hoped that the gaps identified through this scoping review can help enhance the discussion on the broader assessment of mobility in older adults and the design of interventions when contact restriction is a reality.

Dual visual impairment and contrast sensitivity among community-dwelling older adults: a cross-sectional study from the PrevQuedas Brazil trial / Duplo déficit visual e sensibilidade ao contraste em idosos da comunidade: estudo transversal do PrevQuedas Brasil

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the importance of improving visual assessment for community-dwelling older adult fallers. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with eligible older adults (> 60 years old) living in the community and who suffered at least one fall in the last 12 months from the PrevQuedas Brasil clinical trial. Sociodemographic data, information on previous falls, physical and functional assessment (BOMFAQ and FES-I) were collected. We evaluated impairments in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity using the Snellen E chart and low-contrast visual acuity tests, respectively. Dual visual impairment refers to the presence of both impairments. For statistical analysis we compared the participants in relation to the number of falls (single fallers or recurrent fallers) using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test and the significance level was <0.05 for all analyses. RESULTS: Visual acuity, low contrast sensitivity, and dual visual impairment were associated with recurrent falls (OR 1.85); visual impairment was more prevalent among the oldest old. Approximately 90% of the participants reported using glasses, and 63.80% used multifocal lenses. Dual impairment was identified in 143 (20.30%) participants. In multivariate logistic regression, the predictive variables for recurrent falls were low contrast sensitivity (95%CI 1.15­2.47), dual visual impairment (95%CI 1.16­2.83), and self-perceived fall risk (95%CI 1.16­2.46) which was measured using the Falls Efficacy Scale-International. CONCLUSION: Older adults with dual visual impairment are more likely to suffer recurrent falls. Low contrast sensitivity is crucial for fall risk assessment

OBJETIVO: Este estudo investiga a importância de avaliar a visão de idosos caidores na comunidade. METODOLOGIA: Estudo transversal com idosos elegíveis (> 60 anos) residentes na comunidade e que sofreram pelo menos uma queda nos últimos 12 meses do ensaio clínico PrevQuedas Brasil. Foram coletados dados sociodemográficos, informações sobre quedas pregressas, exames físicos e funcionais (BOMFAQ e FES-I). Avaliamos os comprometimentos da acuidade visual e da sensibilidade ao contraste por meio da Tabela E de Snellen e testes de acuidade visual de baixo contraste, respectivamente. O duplo déficit visual refere-se à presença de ambas as deficiências. Para análise estatística comparamos os idosos com relação ao número de quedas (caidores únicos ou caidores recorrentes) usando Qui-quadrado ou Teste exato de Fisher e o nível de significância foi <0.05 para todas as análises. RESULTADOS: Baixa acuidade visual, baixa sensibilidade ao contraste e duplo déficit visual foram associados a quedas recorrentes com odds ratio ­ OR 1,85, frequentemente mais prevalente entre os idosos longevos. Cerca de 90,00% dos idosos relataram usar óculos e 63,80% usavam lentes multifocais. O duplo déficit visual foi identificado em 143 (20,30%) participantes. Nos modelos de regressão logística multivariados, verificamos que as variáveis preditoras para queda recorrente foram a baixa sensibilidade ao contraste (intervalo de confiança ­ IC95% 1,15­2,47), duplo déficit (IC95% 1,16­2,83) e a autopercepção do risco de cair (IC95% 1,16­2,46) medido pela Falls Efficacy Scale-International. CONCLUSÃO: Idosos com baixa sensibilidade ao contraste e duplo déficit visual têm maiores chances de sofrerem múltiplas quedas quando comparados com idosos que possuem apenas baixa acuidade visual. Assim, a baixa sensibilidade ao contraste é essencial na avaliação do risco de quedas dos idosos

Prevalence risk of sarcopenia in older Brazilian adults during the pandemic: A cross-sectional analysis of the Remobilize Study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Social distancing has led to lifestyle changes among older adults during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence risk of sarcopenia (RS) and investigate its associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in older Brazilian adults. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional observational analysis of baseline data as part of the Remobilize Study. METHODS: Participants in the study were older adults (≥ 60 years), excluding those who were bedridden or institutionalized. The data collected consisted of answers about the RS (SARC-F), functional status, walking, sedentary behavior (SB), pain, comorbidity, and life space mobility. RESULTS: A total of 1,482 older adults (70 ± 8.14 years, 74% women) participated in the study, and an RS prevalence of 17.1% was found. (95% confidence interval [CI] 15.25-19.15%). The adjusted multivariate model showed a significant association between RS and functional limitation (odds ratio [OR]: 19.05; CI 13.00-28.32), comorbidity (OR: 5.11; CI 3.44-7.81), pain (OR: 4.56; CI 3.33-6.28), total walking (OR: 0.99; CI 0.99-1.00), SB of 8-10 hours (OR: 1.85; CI 1.15-2.93), and SB of > 10 hours (OR: 3.93; CI 2.48-6.22). RS was associated with mobility during the pandemic (OR: 0.97; CI 0.96-0.98). P < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: During the pandemic, the prevalence of RS in older Brazilians was estimated at 17.1%. Moderate to severe functional limitation, comorbidities, presence of pain, walking, longer SB period, and reduced life space mobility significantly contributed to RS in older adults during the pandemic.

Prevalence risk of sarcopenia in older Brazilian adults during the pandemic: A cross-sectional analysis of the Remobilize Study.

BACKGROUND: Social distancing has led to lifestyle changes among older adults during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence risk of sarcopenia (RS) and investigate its associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in older Brazilian adults. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional observational analysis of baseline data as part of the Remobilize Study. METHODS: Participants in the study were older adults (≥ 60 years), excluding those who were bedridden or institutionalized. The data collected consisted of answers about the RS (SARC-F), functional status, walking, sedentary behavior (SB), pain, comorbidity, and life space mobility. RESULTS: A total of 1,482 older adults (70 ± 8.14 years, 74% women) participated in the study, and an RS prevalence of 17.1% was found. (95% confidence interval [CI] 15.25-19.15%). The adjusted multivariate model showed a significant association between RS and functional limitation (odds ratio [OR]: 19.05; CI 13.00-28.32), comorbidity (OR: 5.11; CI 3.44-7.81), pain (OR: 4.56; CI 3.33-6.28), total walking (OR: 0.99; CI 0.99-1.00), SB of 8-10 hours (OR: 1.85; CI 1.15-2.93), and SB of > 10 hours (OR: 3.93; CI 2.48-6.22). RS was associated with mobility during the pandemic (OR: 0.97; CI 0.96-0.98). P < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: During the pandemic, the prevalence of RS in older Brazilians was estimated at 17.1%. Moderate to severe functional limitation, comorbidities, presence of pain, walking, longer SB period, and reduced life space mobility significantly contributed to RS in older adults during the pandemic.

The potential of assessment based on the WHO framework of intrinsic capacity in fragility fracture prevention.

The risk of falls associated with population ageing and the burden of chronic diseases increase the risk of fragility fractures. Globally, a large increase in the numbers of people sustaining fragility fractures is predicted. The management of highly vulnerable older persons who present and/or are at risk of fragility fractures is challenging given their clinical complexity and the fragmentation of the healthcare services. Fragility fractures frequently result in reduced functional ability and quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to implement person-centered models of care to address the individual's priorities and needs. In this context, the multidimensional construct of intrinsic capacity, composed of the critical functions on which the individual's functional ability rely, becomes of particular interest.In this article, the potential of current models to meet the global challenge is considered, particularly where healthcare systems are less integrated and poorly structured. It then describes how assessment of intrinsic capacity might provide the clinician with a holistic picture of an older individual's reserves before and after a fragility fracture and the implications of implementing this approach based on the construct of intrinsic capacity in healthcare systems, in both well-developed and low-resourced settings. It suggests that optimization of intrinsic capacity and functional ability is a credible conceptual model and might support a generally feasible approach to primary and secondary fracture prevention in older people.

Progressive Resistance Training Program Characteristics in Rehabilitation Programs Following Hip Fracture: A Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression.

Introduction: Older adults often experience incomplete recovery after a hip fracture. Rehabilitation programs with progressive resistance training are associated with improved functional recovery. This systematic review and meta-analysis with meta-regression a) evaluated resistance training characteristics reported in hip fracture rehabilitation programs, b) performed meta-analysis of resistance training impact on strength (primary outcome), gait and physical activity (secondary outcomes), and c) explored resistance training program characteristics associated with improved outcomes using meta-regression. Materials and Methods: Medline, EMBASE, CINAHLPLUS, and Web of Science Core Collection databases were searched (January2000-February2021). Randomized controlled trials including progressive resistance training rehabilitation programs after hip fracture surgery in adults ≥50 years old were included. Meta-analyses and exploratory meta-regression were performed. Results: Meta-analysis showed significant increases in strength (10 trials-728 participants; Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) [95%CI]; .40 [.02, .78]) immediately following program completion in intervention relative to control participants. Meta-analysis on 5 trials (n = 384) with extended follow up found no significant group differences (SMD = .47 [-.28, 1.23]) in strength. Center-based relative to home-based programs were associated with significantly greater improvements in strength (P < .05) as were programs where resistance training intensity was prescribed using one-repetition maximum relative to other exercise prescription methods (P < .05). In gait meta-analysis (n = 10 trials-704 participants), gait speed in intervention participants immediately after the program was significantly higher than control (SMD = .42 [.08, .76]) but this finding was not maintained in extended follow-up (n = 5 trials-240 participants; SMD = .6 [-.26, .38]). Higher resistance training intensity was associated with significant improvements in gait speed (P < .05). No meta-analysis was performed for the 3 heterogeneous studies reporting physical activity. Discussion: Progressive resistance training improved muscle strength and gait speed after hip fracture surgery in adults ≥50years old immediately after the program ended, but the longer-term impact may be more limited. Conclusions: Higher resistance training intensity and center-based programs may be associated with more improvement, but require further research.

Discontinuation of Health Interventions Among Brazilian Older Adults During the Covid-19 Pandemic: REMOBILIZE Study.

The objective of this study was to analyze changes in access to health interventions during the pandemic among Brazilian older adults and to investigate the factors associated with social and health inequalities. We conducted an online survey with Brazilian adults aged 60 + years between May and June 2020. A multidimensional questionnaire was used to investigate access to health interventions during the pandemic and associated factors. Of 1482 participants, 56.5% reported health care before the pandemic, and 36.4% discontinued it during the pandemic. The discontinuation rate was 64.4% (95% CI 61.1-67.6). Participants with higher educational level (nine or more years of education: OR 0.34; 95% CI 0.17-0.70) and higher income (eight or more times the minimum wage: OR 0.54; 95% CI 0.36-0.81) were associated with less probability of discontinuation. Presenting multimorbidity (OR: 1.42; 95% CI 1.06-1.90) and polypharmacy (OR: 0.61; 95% CI 0.46-0.81) were associated with discontinuity in health interventions. Our study showed that structural health inequities in access to health care shaped the rates of discontinuation in health care interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Strategic actions should be set up to actively monitor socially vulnerable older adults and strengthen community-based services to mitigate the discontinuation of health care interventions.

Concern About Falling, Confidence in Balance, Quality of Life, and Depression Symptoms in Community-Dwelling Older Adults After a 24-week Dual-Task Training With Variable and Fixed Priority: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of a 24-week dual-task training with progression from variable to fixed priority on the concern about falling, confidence in balance, quality of life, and depression symptoms in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: A total of 60 participants (60-80 y.o.) were randomly allocated into a dual-task training group with progression from variable to fixed priority (experimental group) or into a dual-task training group with variable priority (control group). RESULTS: No between-group difference was observed after the intervention. A significant time effect showed a reduction in concern about falling [mean difference (MD) = -2.91)] and depression symptoms (MD = -1.66), an increase in the physical function (MD = 7.86), overall mental health (MD = 5.82), perception of vitality, energy, and less fatigue (MD = 10.45), general perception of overall health (MD = 6.81), and their health compared to the last year (MD = 11.89). CONCLUSION: The experimental protocol was not superior to the control one. However, both protocols improved these outcomes.

The Four Square Step Test is a useful mobility tool for discriminating older persons with frailty syndrome.

PURPOSE: To identify the usefulness of Four Square Step Test (FSST) in discriminating balance control in non-frail, pre-frail, and frail community-dwelling older adults. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. METHODS: Cross- sectional study conducted in specialized outpatient geriatric care settings. One hundred and fifty-six consecutive patients without severe cognitive impairment and who could walk were included. We classified participants as non-frail, pre-frail, and frail using the Fried frailty phenotype. FSST was assessed by measuring the time (seconds) participants took to step into each of the four quadrants formed by four sticks arranged on the floor (clockwise and counterclockwise as quickly as possible) without knocking the sticks. RESULTS: Of all participants, 36% were non-frail, 37% pre-frail, and 27% frail. Frail and pre-frail older adults took significantly more time to execute the FSST (23.1, 95% CI 18.8-27.4; p < 0.001 and 17.9; 95% CI 14.3-21.5; p = 0.003, respectively) compared to with non-frail (11.6, 95% CI 11.0-12.3). Frail and pre-frail older adults were not significantly different (p = 0.058). Most participants who failed to perform the test were frail (n = 15; 36%), followed by pre-frail (n = 7; 12%) and non-frail (n = 2; 3.5%). DISCUSSION: Our results showed that pre-frail and frail older adults had poorer performance in FSST when compared to non-frail older adults. It is important to use instruments that allow early identification, especially of pre-frail older adults, as they are still at the beginning of the frailty process when the control and reversal of adverse outcomes are promising. Failing the test could be a sign of mobility loss, particularly due to balance and cognitive problems. Clinical practitioners could use the test to compare individual's performance attending rehabilitation programs over different periods of time. CONCLUSION: FSST is a useful and safe measure of dynamic balance and discriminates frail and pre-frail from non-frail older adults. Further diagnostic accuracy studies should be conducted to determine FSST predictive capacity.

Functional Outcomes Associated With Independence in Walking Among People With Hereditary Ataxias: An Exploratory Cross-sectional Study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify functional outcomes related to independence in walking among people affected by hereditary ataxias. METHODS: Sixty participants were selected by convenience in a list provided by an organization of people with ataxia. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected using a semistructured questionnaire. The Assessment and Rating of Ataxia was used to assess and rate cerebellar ataxia. Changes in body structure and function, limitation in activities, and restriction in participation were evaluated with specific outcome measures. Participants were classified as independent in walking if they were able to walk without walking aids or human assistance and as dependent in walking if they have been using walking aids (sticks, crutches, or walkers) for more than 6 months, using a wheelchair for locomotion most of the day, or both. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted hierarchically and in blocks considering upper limbs function, balance systems, sensory functions, postural control, walking, independence, cognition, and perception as independent variables. The prevalence ratio for walking independence was determined. RESULTS: The final regression model pointed out that gait capacity assessed by the 6-Minute Walk Test and dexterity assessed by the Box and Blocks test were the main markers related to walking independence in individuals with hereditary ataxias. CONCLUSION: The distance covered in 6 minutes of walking (walking endurance) and upper extremity dexterity can be used to better assess the progression of cerebellar disease related to walking independence in individuals with hereditary ataxias. IMPACT: This study supports early detection of individuals who are at risk of loss of walking independence and an optimized rehabilitation plan.

Domains of Balance Training Delivered in Rehabilitation Programs Following Hip Fracture Surgery in Older Adults: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The aim of this systematic review was to assess the domains and characteristics of balance training (BT) interventions delivered in rehabilitation programs following hip fracture to identify potential treatment gaps. METHODS: Manual and electronic searches (Web of Science, Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and ProQuest) were conducted. We selected randomized controlled trials with older adults following hip fracture surgery that included either specific BT or gait, mobility, or transfer training. Two independent reviewers extracted data and rated the methodological quality using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. A third reviewer provided consensus. Extracted BT data included balance domain, progression, frequency, duration, intensity, level of supervision, setting, and rehabilitation phase. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: We included 17 trials from 19 studies; 11 studies were rated as moderate to high methodological quality, but only 8 were considered to have high-quality BT components. Half of the interventions included only one balance domain, with stability during movement being the most commonly included domain. The primary balance progression utilized was reducing hand support. Dual task, anticipatory postural adjustment, reactive strategies, and perceptual training domains were rarely included. Balance training duration and intensity were poorly described. Although most programs were home-based with minimal levels of supervision, a few extended beyond postacute phase of rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: Further consideration should be given to include more challenging BT domains with planned progressions to maximize patient recovery through hip fracture rehabilitation programs.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Time of Utilitarian Walking and Walking as Exercise Among Brazilian Community-Dwelling Older Adults: The REMOBILIZE Study.

This study aimed to investigate behavioral changes related to utilitarian walking and walking as exercise among Brazilian older adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Baseline data from the longitudinal REMOBILIZE study were used. The survey was online and comprised 1,482 adults aged 60 years and older. The outcome was the hours per week of walking time (for utilitarian purposes, as exercise, and total), estimated by the frequency and duration and analyzed by average and rate of decrease, comparing pre- and during the pandemic. Total walking time was used to estimate transition patterns between levels of walking intensity. A moderate reduction of 1.76 hr per week in the total walking time was observed, and 28.1% of the participants' walking transition patterns were from more to less physically active. Our findings demonstrate the need for gender-specific interventions and policies to increase the walking levels among older adults after the COVID-19 pandemic period.

Validating intrinsic capacity to measure healthy aging in an upper middle-income country: Findings from the ELSI-Brazil.

Background: While efforts have been made to validate intrinsic capacity (IC) as a multidimensional indicator of healthy aging in high-income countries, we still need evidence from lower-income countries. We examined associations of IC with wide ranges of activities of daily living in a nationally representative sample of Brazilians aged≥50 years. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis included 7175 participants from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging. IC domains (cognitive, psychological, sensory, locomotor, and vitality) were determined using self-reported and physical performance measures. IC was operationalized through factorial analysis. We investigated associations of IC and its domains with functional ability in basic, instrumental, and advanced activities of daily living (ADL, IADL, and AADL) using logistic regressions adjusted for sociodemographic, clinical, and modifiable risk factors. Findings: The IC bi-factorial model revealed satisfactory goodness-of-fit. Preserved ability in ADL and IADL, respectively, ranged from 69% and 29% to 89% and 74% across IC quartiles. In adjusted analyses, every standard deviation increment in IC composite score was associated with almost twice the odds of preserved ADL (OR=1·72; 95%CI=1·54-1·93), preserved IADL (OR=1·95; 95%CI=1·77-2·16), and high performance in AADL (OR=1·79; 95%CI=1·59-2·00). Similar results were reported using the IC domains as predictors. Although age, race/ethnicity, and education did not modify associations of IC with functional ability, we found sex differences with stronger relationships of IC with preserved ADL or IADL in females. Interpretation: Our results support IC validity and reliability to measure healthy aging in diverse socioeconomic and cultural settings. Incorporating IC in routine practices can promote holistic and person-centered care approaches in aging societies. Funding: The Brazilian Ministry of Health and Ministry of Science, Technology, Innovation, and Communication.