Abstract

Background: The increase in the proportion of older people generates events such as decreased quality of life and physical deterioration, whose characteristics are decreased muscle mass and reduced muscle strength. The objective of the present study was to relate prehensile strength with different anthropometric variables, providing quantifiable data that contribute to reinforce the need of intervention in the adult population. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study (n = 84). Sociodemographic and anthropometric variables were identified in people over 60 years old living in long-stay facilities. Results: Malnutrition due to excess was found in 26.7%, while 20.2% and 32.9% of men and women, respectively, had decreased muscle mass. A positive correlation is observed between prehensile strength with calf circumference and BMI. Conclusions: The existing correlation between prehensile strength and muscle mass is confirmed, which suggests the urgent need to generate preventive programs in the elderly population, integrating both nutritional and kinesic interventions, which together and under the appropriate consideration, would allow to improve the quality of life of the elderly.