Associations Between Frailty, Body Mass Index, and Functional Fitness in Older Women

To analyze the differences in body mass index (BMI) and functional fitness tests between women with and without frailty, and secondarily to determine whether frailty is related to functional fitness performance in elderly women. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 69 women aged 60 to 85 years. Weight, height and body mass index (BMI) were assessed. The Senior Fitness Test battery was used to assess functional fitness. Frailty was assessed through the Kihon Checklist (KCL) questionnaire. Results: There were significant differences (p< .05) between women with and without frailty in the sit to stand up from a chair, biceps curl and 2.44m agility tests. There were no significant differences between both groups in age, BMI, chair trunk flexion, 6-minute walk, 2-minute walk, right and left hand grip strength (p>.05). Significant positive correlation was determined between age and frailty (r=.359, p=.003). However, negative correlations were ob-served with functional fitness tests, including sitting and rising from a chair, biceps curl, trunk flexion in chair, join hands behind back, 2.44 m agility, 6-min walk, and right hand- grip strength, with values ranging from r = -.386 to r = -.268. No significant correlation was found with the walk test. Conclusion: The study showed significant differences in BMI and functional fitness tests between women with and without frailty. As women age, frailty increases and functional fitness decreases, especially in key tests, which may be useful in assessing fall risk and functional status in women aged 65-85 years.