Avaliação da força dos membros superiores e inferiores, nível de atividade física e qualidade de vida de idosas praticante de atividade física

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the upper and lower limb strength, physical activity level, and quality of life of older adults who practice physical activity. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with multivariate analysis involving 52 older women. Strength was assessed, and physical activity level and quality of life questionnaires were administered. The study included older women aged 60 years or above. Upper limb strength was assessed via hand dynamometry; lower limb strength was assessed with the sit-to-stand test. The IPAQ and SF-36 questionnaires were applied, respectively. Results: The study analyzed 52 older women (mean age 72.9 years) to investigate the relationship between physical activity, muscle strength, and quality of life (QoL). Most participants were classified as very active (64.8%) or active (27.8%) according to the IPAQ. The SF-36 quality of life questionnaire revealed higher scores in Vitality and lower scores in Role Limitations due to Physical Health and Social Functioning. The analysis showed a positive correlation between the physical activity level and the functional capacity dimension of quality of life. Furthermore, lower limb strength had a significant negative relationship with age, as well as a significant positive relationship with the functional capacity domain of quality of life and physical activity level. This suggests that muscle strength is a key intermediate mechanism, acting as the most direct determinant of functional autonomy, mediating the benefits of physical activity, with influence from age. Conclusion: In active older women, lower limb strength proved to be a critical and independent factor for better functional capacity (SF-36), with correlation the upper limb strength and overall physical activity level. Despite being active, the sample presented "weak" upper limb strength and low scores in the physical and social aspects of quality of life. It is concluded that interventions should prioritize lower limb strengthening to promote autonomy and quality of life.