The relationship between lower extremity muscular power and functionality in older adults

Abstract

As humans age we go through a process of muscle mass loss known as Sarcopenia. This process of muscle loss can lead to many different forms of functionality based health concerns that can leave an individual immobile and requiring assistance from others. The primary purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between lower limb muscular power and functionality in women 70 and older. For this study, 15 women who have previously completed at least three months of high intensity resistance training exercises through the participation of a local exercise study at the University of Central Oklahoma served as subjects. The women were recruited to complete a functionality test, the 8-Foot Up-and-Go, and four power testing procedures: Chair Stand, Squat, Leg Extension, and Lunge. Power testing was conducted using a Tendo Weightlifting Analyzer with testing being conducted on non-consecutive days of the week. Once testing was completed a Pearson's correlation coefficient statistical analysis test was conducted after data collection to determine if any relationships existed between lower limb muscle power and functional ability. The results showed a significant relationship between the Chair Stand (r = -.672, p = .006) and the 8-Foot Up-and-Go functionality test. All other relationships were determined to not be significant. From these results the primary investigator concluded that a strong negative relationship was evident between lower limb muscular power production and functional ability in older adults.