Physical fitness assessment in hypertensive elderly of Praia, Cape Verde islands: pilot study

Abstract

Introduction – The assessment of physical fitness allows the identification of levels of disability and risk of functional loss, so it is extremely useful in structuring specific physical activity programs, which constitute the first intervention with regard to non-pharmacological intervention in Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH). Objective – This study sought to assess the functional physical fitness and physical activity levels in hypertensive individuals in the city of Praia in Cape Verde. Methodology – Flexibility, muscular strength and endurance, aerobic endurance and body composition were assessed by Fullerton battery and manual isometric dynamometry. Levels of physical activity were assessed with the questionnaire Seven Day Physical Activity Recall (PAR-7D). Results – Participants were 75 elderly, 68% of whom were women aged between 60 and 99 years, body mass index (BMI) of 25.2±5.4 with a clinical diagnosis of hypertension. Time spent in moderate-intensity activities was within the recommended values although the activity of higher levels of intensity was far below the recommended and exercises of strength and flexibility were not done. The aerobic resistance expressed by the 6-Minute Walking Test (T6MM) showed lower values (293.5±112.2m) as well as the flexibility and grip strength. This association is an indicator of poor functional capacity. Conclusion – Low levels of physical fitness presented associated with low levels of physical activity shows low functional capacity of the sample and justify the urgent need for insertion of physical activity programs in this specific population.

Keywords

• aptidão física, capacidade funcional, hipertensão arterial sistémica, atividade física, idosos