Physical Activity and Mobility Impairment Across the Frailty Spectrum Among the Oldest Old: Insights From the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil).
Abstract
This study analyzed data from the second wave of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil) to examine the prevalence of frailty and its association with physical activity (PA) and mobility impairments in a nationally representative sample of older adults aged 80 and older in Brazil. ELSI-Brazil is a national resource that investigates aging-related health, psychosocial, and economic factors to inform public policies promoting healthy aging. Data from 1,171 participants were analyzed using chi-square tests, ANOVA, and logistic regression adjusted for confounders. About 14% were classified as frail, 73% as pre-frail, and 13% as robust. Frail individuals were less likely to meet PA guidelines (OR = 12.95; 95% CI [6.44-26.08]) and had higher odds of short-distance walking impairment (OR = 1.88; 95% CI [1.02-3.48]) compared to their robust counterparts. Our findings suggest a relatively low prevalence of frailty among Brazil's oldest old but indicated a significant association with physical inactivity and mobility impairment.
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Research summary
Frail older adults are significantly less likely to meet physical activity guidelines and have higher odds of mobility impairment compared to robust individuals. This study is relevant as it explores the relationship between physical activity and mobility in the context of frailty, which is a critical aspect of healthy aging and longevity.
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