Presenter(s):

Rita Bárbara; Monica Perracini; Silvana Rocha da Silveira; Ruth Pedro; Mário Lopes, Universidade Privada de Angola, Angola

Abstract

Introduction:In low- and middle-income countries, population aging intensifies challenges related to functional decline, mobility loss, and mental health deterioration. Angola lacks epidemiological data to support effective aging strategies, particularly in urban settings like Luanda.
Objective:To explore the functional capacity and mental health status of community-dwelling older adults in Luanda.
Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted with 345 participants aged 60 years and over. Functional and mental health were assessed using the validated Angolan version of the Older Americans Resources and Services (OARS) instrument. Physical tests included the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), Four Square Step Test (FSST), Handgrip Strength Test (HGT), and calf circumference (CC). Statistical analyses were conducted using t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson/Spearman correlations, and regression models (SPSS v28, p<0.05).
Results:Aging was associated with reduced 6MWT performance (from 310.5 m in the 60–69 group to 250.1 m in 80+), and increased FSST times (12.1 s to 15.2 s). CC was moderately correlated with 6MWT (r = 0.30) and negatively with FSST (r = –0.28). No significant CC differences were observed by age or gender. A strong correlation was found between functional and mental health domains (r = 0.77; p < 0.001), highlighting their interdependence.
Conclusion:The study reveals significant functional limitations in aging Angolans, with calf circumference emerging as a relevant low-cost indicator. Results suggest the need for integrated geriatric care approaches that address both physical and mental health in aging populations.
Keywords: Functional Health, Balance, Older Adults.

Bio(s):

Doctoral candidate in Rehabilitation Sciences, university professor, and current Head of the Department of Physiotherapy at the Universidade Privada de Angola. She is engaged in the training of physiotherapists and in the development of academic and clinical programs focused on the care of critically ill patients, functional rehabilitation, and elderly care. She leads projects aligned with the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030), emphasizing the promotion of functionality, the prevention of disabilities, and the implementation of integrated, person-centered care.

Her areas of interest include respiratory physiotherapy, functional ageing, multidimensional assessment, intensive care rehabilitation, interprofessional education, and cross-cultural validation of clinical instruments. She coordinates research aimed at adapting assessment tools to the African context and fosters interdisciplinary investigations tailored to the specific needs of the elderly population.