Identification of dynapenia in older adults through the use of grip strength t‐scores. Issue 1 (19th November 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bohannon, Richard W; Magasi, Susan
• Is Part Of: Muscle & nerve. Volume 51:Issue 1(2015:Jan.)
• Page Start: 102
• Page End: 105
• Publication Date: 2014-11-19
• Subjects: Neuromuscular diseases -- Periodicals; Muscles -- Periodicals; Nerves -- Periodicals; 616.74
• DOI: 10.1002/mus.24264
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0148-639X

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title>ABSTRACT</title> <p> <italic>Introduction</italic>: The aim of this study was to generate reference values and <italic>t</italic>‐scores (1.0–2.5 standard deviations below average) for grip strength for healthy young adults and to examine the utility of <italic>t</italic>‐scores from this group for the identification of dynapenia in older adults. <italic>Methods</italic>: Our investigation was a population‐based, general community secondary analysis of cross‐sectional grip strength data utilizing the NIH Toolbox Assessment norming sample. Participants consisted of community‐dwelling adults, with age ranges of 20–40 years (<italic>n</italic> = 558) and 60–85 years (<italic>n</italic> = 390). The main outcome measure was grip strength using a Jamar plus dynamometer. <italic>Results</italic>: Maximum grip strengths were consistent over the 20–40‐year age group [men 108.0 (SD 22.6) pounds, women 65.8 (SD 14.6) pounds]. Comparison of older group grip strengths to those of the younger reference group revealed (depending on age strata) that 46.2–87.1% of older men and 50.0–82.4% of older women could be designated as dynapenic on the basis of <italic>t</italic>‐scores. <italic>Conclusions</italic>: The use of reference value <italic>t</italic>‐scores from younger adults is a promising method for determining dynapenia in older adults. <italic>Muscle Nerve</italic><bold>51</bold>: 102–105, 2015</p> </abstract>