Relative strength as a determinant of mobility in elders 67-84 years of age. a nuage study: nutrition as a determinant of successful aging

J Nutr Health Aging. 2010 Mar;14(3):190-5. doi: 10.1007/s12603-010-0047-4.

Abstract

This cross-sectional study proposes two relative strength indexes in order to evaluate the risks of lower mobility in healthy older adults: 1) handgrip strength on body mass index and 2) quadriceps strength on body weight. Nine hundred and four men and women aged between 67-84 years old were tested for body composition, muscle strength and mobility function. Individuals in the lowest and middle tertiles of relative handgrip strength were respectively 2.2 (1.3-3.7) and 4.4 (2.6-7.6) more likely to have a lower mobility score. As for relative quadriceps strength, odd ratios for lowest and middle tertiles were respectively 2.8 (1.6-4.9) and 6.9 (3.9-12.1). Relative strength indexes, either using handgrip strength or quadriceps strength, are convenient to use in large scale studies and clinical practice.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Body Mass Index*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment / methods*
  • Hand Strength*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mobility Limitation*
  • Muscle Strength*
  • Odds Ratio
  • Quadriceps Muscle / physiology
  • Risk