IDOSOS INSTITUCIONALIZADOS: FRÁGEIS E SEM EQUILÍBRIO ELDERLY INSTITUTIONALIZED: FRAILTY AND WITHOUT BALANCE

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the presence of fragility as well as balance in a group of institutionalized elderly. Methods: Fragility was evaluated using the criteria of Fried (2001), which analyzes 5 criteria: Decreased palmar grip strength; Unintentional weight loss, poor energy expenditure, exhaustion assessed by self-report of fatigue, slowness for ambulation. Functional balance was assessed through TUG ("Timed up and go") and one foot support. Results: It was observed that 67% of the elderly were fragile and 33% pre-fragile. No non-fragile elderly were observed. Among the fragility indicators considered, the decrease in palmar grip strength (FPP) was the highest frequency (100% of the elderly), followed by a low energy expenditure (86%). Regarding gait velocity, no pre-frail elderly individuals presented alterations, while 67% of the frail elderly presented a decrease in walking speed. All the elderly had impaired balance. Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of fragility among the institutionalized elderly, demonstrating that institutionalization is a factor for fragility when comparing the results with community aged individuals. There is a correlation between changes in balance and the presence of fragility, with TUG being a good predictor of functional and health of the elderly.

Keywords

• Aged
• Frail Elderly
• Postural Balance