Physical Activity in the Elderly and Frailty Syndrome: A Retrospective Study in Primary Care

Abstract

Objectives: Physical activity carries numerous therapeutic benefits, and it is more effective when applied before the onset of symptoms. The objective of this study is to compare the correlation of the evaluation of physical activity carried out using the Ricci and Gagnon test and the frailty profile measured by the mSEGA scale in a population of patients consulting in general medicine. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study within a general practitioner clinic in Chaumont and Bologne (Haute-Marne department) during a 3-month period. Patients aged 65 years and up were screened for frailty using the modified SEGA (mSEGA) assessment, and physical activity was measured using the Ricci–Gagnon questionnaire. Results: A total of 44 patients were selected, with a slightly female predominance (59.1%). Of these, 21 patients reported having worked in manual labor. Seven patients were found to be frail using the SEGAm assessment, while 10 (22.73%) patients had an inactive profile according the Ricci–Gagnon score. Malnutrition was detected in six patients (13.64%) using the MNA survey. Frailty as defined by the mSEGA scale had no statistical correlation (p = 0.68) with the Ricci–Gagnon score. A Ricci–Gagnon inactive profile showed statistical correlations with fall indicators (unipedal balance test, p = 0.014) and malnutrition scores using the MNA (p = 0.0057) as well as with the Charlson Comorbidity Index (p = 0.027). Conclusion: A systematic survey of the elderly by a general practitioner implementing a regular and suitable physical activity regimen would allow a better screening of frailty, minimizing its complications.

Keywords

• physical activity
• frail elderly
• Ricci–Gagnon questionnaire
• general practice