23 Protein intake, grip strength, and quality of life in older adults: an evaluation of an over 60’s community exercise programme

Abstract

Background Community exercise programmes have been shown to confer multiple cardiovascular health benefits and improved quality of life (QoL) in older adults. However, the components of such programmes likely determine their effectiveness on health outcomes. Aim This study aimed to assess the effects of attending an open community exercise class for individuals over 60 years old on grip strength, QoL, and nutritional intake. Methods Participants were recruited from an over 60s exercise class in the Northwest of the UK. Those meeting the entry criteria of being aged over 60 were assessed for dietary intake using multiple 24-hour recalls, while grip strength was measured using a digital dynamometer. Grip strength was compared to age- and sex-matched 50th centile values. Nutritional intake was evaluated using Nutritics™ software, and protein intake was compared to calculated values based on recommended levels. Quality of life was assessed using the EQ-5D- 5L questionnaire. EQindex (a measure of QoL) was calculated and compared against age- and sex-matched values. The study received approval from the Health Research Ethics Committee at Edge Hill University. Results Out of the 60 participants approached, 45 expressed interest. Among the remaining 45, 15 participants completed the dietary assessment, and 21 underwent grip strength and QoL evaluation. The average age of the group was 70.4±6.8 years. Mean EQindex was significantly greater in the study participants when compared to age- and sex-matched controls (0.902±0.131 vs. 0.767±0.026, p<0.001). Analysis revealed no significant difference between the participants' current protein intake and the calculated recommended values based on bodyweight. However, the mean grip strength of the participants was significantly lower than the age- and sex-matched 50th centile values. Conclusion Despite high perceived QoL, strength of the participants was below corresponding UK values. Future studies are needed to confirm this finding in a larger population, however additional efforts should focus on incorporating resistance training to enhance muscle function and support improved strength in this population attending exercise programmes.