Predictors of change in grip strength over 3 years in the African American health project.
OBJECTIVE
To examine factors associated with change in grip strength.


METHODS
Grip strength was measured at baseline and 3 years later. Change was divided into "decreased >/=5 kg," "increased >/=5 kg," and "no change" and analyzed using multinomial multivariable logistic regression.


RESULTS
Decline in grip strength was more likely for men, those reporting having cardiovascular disease, and those with instrumental activities of daily living, lower body functional limitations, high diastolic blood pressure, higher physical activity, and greater body mass. Decline was less likely among those ever having Medicaid, those with basic activities of daily living disabilities, and those unable to see a doctor in past year due to cost. Gain in grip strength was more likely for men and those with instrumental activities of daily living disabilities, lower body functional limitations, high diastolic blood pressure, and higher physical activity; it was less likely for older participants.


CONCLUSIONS
Results can be used to design interventions to improve strength outcomes.
Miller
Douglas K
DK
Indiana University Center for Aging Research and Regenstrief Institute, Inc, Indianapolis 46202, USA. dokmille@iupui.edu
Malmstrom
Theodore K
TK
Miller
J Philip
JP
Andresen
Elena M
EM
Schootman
Mario
M
Wolinsky
Fredric D
FD
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D001741:Black or African American / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D015992:Body Mass Index; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000473:pathology; D016001:Confidence Intervals; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D005260:Female; D018737:Hand Strength / Q000502:physiology*; D006305:Health Status Indicators; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D053580:Muscle Strength / Q000502:physiology*; D016017:Odds Ratio; D011594:Psychometrics; D012016:Reference Values; D055948:Sarcopenia / Q000473:pathology; D012737:Sex Factors; D013997:Time Factors; D014481:United States