Weak Grip Strength and Cognition Predict Functional Limitation in Older Europeans

Abstract

Objectives: To estimate the effects of baseline grip strength and cognition on the trajectory of functional limitation over time.

Design: Longitudinal study of older adults participating in the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE).

Setting: Urban and rural households in 11 European countries and Israel.

Participants: Individuals aged 50 and older from SHARE (2004-2015) (N=14,073; 52.5% female).

Measurements: Outcomes were functional limitation scores from five panel wave. Main exposure variables were grip strength and cognitive measures including memory, verbal fluency, and numeracy at baseline. Basic demographic characteristics, life habits, and health status were considered as potential confounders. Mixed-effect linear regression models were fitted.

Results: Functional limitation increased significantly over time (follow-up range 0.9-11.6 years) (β = 0.051, P < .001). Mixed-effect linear regression models identified significant interactions between grip strength (β = -0.001, P < .001), numeracy (β = -0.012, P < .001), verbal fluency (β = -0.003, P < .001), word recall (β = -0.006, P < .001) and time on functional limitation.

Conclusion: Stronger baseline grip strength and better cognition predicted a slower rate of increase in functional limitation over time in older adults. Grip strength and cognitive function appeared to be useful indicators of the functional limitation process and attested to their value in monitoring functional change in European older adults. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:93-99, 2019.

Keywords: ageing; cognitive function; functional limitation; grip strength.