Objective
To investigate the prevalence of reduced grip strength and associated factors in long-lived elderly, who are users of primary health care.
Method
Cross-sectional quantitative study, data were collected during the period of January to December of 2013, by applying tests and questionnaires. The convenience sampling was comprised of 157 seniors.
Results
The findings indicate that the reduction in grip strength presents a moderate prevalence (25.5%), predominantly among females (19.1%), in the age group of 80-89 years (18.5%) and in those with lower educational levels (15.9%). The association between reduced grip strength and the variables of age and body mass index showed a statistical significance.
Conclusion
Investigations about the handgrip strength are essential for identifying clinical conditions of Brazilian long-lived elderly, and contribute to the development of plans towards the management of frailty.
Frail elderly; Hand strength ; Geriatric nursing; Health of the elderly