Contribution of Physical Fitness Component to Health Status in Elderly Males and Females over 60 years - Short Report

The purpose of this study was to identify the physical fitness (PF) level of a cohort of elderly people that are subjected to physical activity (PA), and to establish a regression model for the evaluation of health status (HS) of elderly people based on their PF. This is a Cross-sectional study. Consists of 114 Participants over 60 years old, that were recruited from a physical activity program. Were measured variables about anthropometric characteristics, jumping tests with jumping platform, dynamic and static balance, risk of falls, lung capacity, HS and quality of life (QoL). We used Pearson's linear correlation with 95% Zr. We looked for simple and multiple regression models. We used the bayesian information criterion approach and statistical inference to find and calculated a numerical estimate of the best regression model. We used the dependent variable physical function of SF-12. Physical fitness variables selected for the models were weight, height, Countermovement Jump test (flight time), Functional Reach test, lumbosacral flexion mobility, Extended Timed Get Up and Go (ETGUG) (10 meters time score and total time score). The HS and QoL measurement are important for the prevention of injury during physical exercise and should be conducted whenever is possible. The regression models proposed in this study can be used as an initial screening of HS or QoL at fitness facilities and fitness clubs that do not provide HS or QoL questionnaires. However, these models are not an alternative to health care for a detailed determination of HS and is not intended for use as a final evaluation.