Gender Differences in Anthropometric Predictors of Physical Performance in Older Adults

Background

Both high body fat and low muscle mass have been associated with physical disability in older adults. However, men and women differ markedly in body composition; men generally have more absolute and relative lean muscle mass and less fat mass than women. It is not known how these anthropometric differences differentially affect physical ability in men and women.

Objectives

This study examines differences in anthropometric predictors of physical performance in older women and men.

Methods

Participants were 470 older women and men 72.9 (7.9) years of age. Body composition was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Maximum leg strength and power were measured using a leg press. Muscle quality (MQ) was calculated as relative strength (leg press strength per kilogram of leg muscle mass). Gait speed and chair rise were used to assess mobility performance and functional strength.

Results

Body mass index (BMI), age, and MQ emerged as predictors (P < 0.05) of functional strength and mobility in men and women somewhat differently. After accounting for age and sample, leg MQ was related to chair rise time and gait speed in men but not women. BMI was related to gait speed in both men and women, but BMI was related to chair rise time only in women.

Conclusion

Results implicate the prioritized importance of healthy weight and muscle maintenance in older women and men for maintained physical functioning with aging.