Assessment of Physical Activity in the Elderly an Element in Maintaining Vascular Resilience?

Introduction Frailty is considered to be prevalent with age and associated with a high risk on falls, disability, hospitalization and mortality. Physical activity is a protective factor for the occurrence of sarcopenia for older adults, however there are limited studies in this area. Aim of this study was to evaluate the physical performance and its impact on functionality of hemodynamic parameters in elderly patients. Material & Methods We conducted a prospective study for three months (July-September 2019) in which 143 patients were included, with age over 65 years (mean of 72.85 +/- 10.07 years), from which 113 were women. The study was conducted in the Geriatrics Clinic from "Sf. Luca" Hospital of Chronic Diseases. We measured Physical activity through Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) that targets: tandem standing, 4m walking test and up to go test; functional capacity by standardized scales Activity Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental Activity Daily Living (IADL); the muscle strength through hydraulic dynamometer; arterial vascular stiffness (PWV and PP) using the Tensiomed Arteriograph. Results The physical performance if patients changes with age. That is why in the age group 75-84y we have the highest percentage of patients with low status of physical activity (53%) compared to only 30% in the elderly (65-74y). Physical performance and impact on daily activity scores show a direct relationship between the functionality and the SPPB values. The results showed a significant statistical difference on the pulse pressure (PP) (p=0.001). We consider this as a new predictor for cardiovascular risk assessment and risk evaluation of disability by walking speed. Conclusions Determining muscle strength to assess physical persistence with clinical implications in lifestyle optimization and treatment recommendations in elderly patients, seems to be a necessity.