Analysis of the association between hand grip strength and functionality in community old people

Abstract Objective To analyze the association between hand grip strength (HGS) and physical ability tests by healthy, non-institutionalized old people. Method This is a cross-sectional research. The sample comprised 36 old people (66.69±4.84 years), and they all responded two questionaires, one containing a cognitive assessment and another to assess the level of physical activity, in addition to sociodemographic data and health conditions. The HGS was measured using the JAMAR hydraulic dynamometer, and the six-minute walk test (6MWT) and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test were carried out to assess the submaximal cardiorespiratory capacity during displacement and body mobility. Results The Pearson coefficient allowed to verify the weak and significant association between the HGS and the 6MWT (p=0.05) and TUG (p=0.027) variables. Conclusion The HGS showed a weak but significant correlation with the physical ability tests. Therefore, it can be used when contextualized with other variables to assess the functionality in old people in the community.