Risco de quedas, sintomas depressivos e qualidade de vida em idosas pré-frágeis

Abstract

Introduction: Physical frailty is a geriatric syndrome most prevalent in women and it has been associated with decreased functional performance and increased risk of falls, which can lead to depression and decline quality of life. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between frailty criteria, risk of falls, depressive symptoms and quality of life (QoL) in pre-frail community-dwelling older women. Methods: Cross-sectional study was performed with 28 pre-frail older women (71±5years). The participants were assessed for frailty (Fried’s phenotype), risk of falls (Timed up and Go), depressive symptoms by Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS), and QoL (SF-36). Results: The most part (82.1%) of the sample presented risk of falls. In QoL, social functioning (76±20) and physical functioning (72±20) had highest scores. Depressive symptoms were present in 32% of the sample. Correlation was observed between GDS and QoL dimensions: physical functioning (p=0.003); Limitations by role-physical (p=0.038); general health (p=0.013); vitality (p=0.009) and bodily pain (p=0.000). Fatigue presented correlation with: vitality (p=0.008); social functioning (p=0.019); role-emotional (p=0.048); mental health (p=0.029). There was also correlation between handgrip strength (HS) and social functioning (p=0.009). Conclusion: The older women presented risk of falls and lower HS. Higher scores in depressive symptoms indicating lower physical functioning, worse general health, and vitality. Also, higher fatigue indicating worse vitality, general health, mental health, role-emotional, and social functioning.