The use of handgrip strength (HGS) in outpatient care for patients with Alzheimer's Disease

Abstract

To evaluate the contribution of handgrip strength (HGS) in outpatient care for elderly patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Cross-sectional study, with AD patients, >65 years of age, who underwent cognitive, nutritional and HGS assessment, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF) and Disability Assessment in Dementia (DAD). The data were compared to a similar control group (CG) composed of 51 elderly people, with p <0.05. The 43 elderly people with AD exhibited lower HGS scores when compared to the CG (13.4±8.2 vs 17.5±8.0; p=0.008, Mann-Whitney). There was no difference in HGS according to the severity of dementia, cognitive aspects, the IPAQ-SF and in the activities of daily living in the DAD. Higher HGS values were associated with males and younger age. There was a correlation with some anthropometric indicators. HGS was significantly lower in elderly people with AD. In Alzheimer's disease, higher HGS values were associated with males, younger age and some anthropometric indicators