Abstract

Strengths of several upper- and lower-limb muscle groups were measured in an elderly population by using a simple, adaptable dynamometer. The bladder of a sphygmomanometer was modified by folding and surrounding it in a sewn cloth bag. It was then attached to a board for improved stability during the tests. Thirty-seven men and 81 women aged 62 to 102 years were tested. Four muscle groups were statistically determined to best represent strength - two for upper limb and two for lower limb. These strength measures were correlated with anthropometric indices, and a step-wise multiple regression was used to determine the degree of association between the variables. Men were significantly stronger than women in absolute strength, but were not different when strength was expressed relative to body weight. Within each sex, however, age was the most important variable related to loss of strength; body weight was secondary or not significant. These results suggest that age is the most important factor for relating differences in strength in an older elderly population (those aged 75 to 90 or more years). This factor must be accounted for just as body weight or cross-sectional muscle area often are, when comparing strengths in a younger population. Verf.-Referat