Comparison of some functional and anthropometric parameters as risk factors for gender fragility in the elderly people

Abstract

Introduction. A specific characteristic of the elderly is brittleness or fragility, and due to its prevalence, fragility needs to be understood as a public health priority. The aim of the study was to examine the association of functional and anthropometric parameters with fragility in persons over 65 years of age. Method. The study was designed as a cross-sectional study and included 446 elderly people. As research instruments, a general questionnaire was used to assess the functional status of the Tinetti test and, of anthropometric parameters, the circumference of the upper arm and the circumference of the middle part of the lower leg. We used the ch2 test and Pearson's correlation analysis as statistical tests. Results. Females had poorer functional status, walking, and balance compared to males (ch2 = 4.125; p <0.127). It was observed males subjects had higher values of upper arm circumference (26.96 ± 3.44) compared to females, while females had higher values of the middle circumference of the lower leg (32.66 ± 6.29). Analyzing the correlation of anthropometric measurements with the total score of the Tinetti test and in relation to subjects' gender, it was noticed there is a correlation analysis between the parameters. Conclusion. A high percentage of people over the age of 65 have poor functional status, as well as lower values of anthropometric markers, suggesting that they may be potential risk factors for the fragility in the elderly.