Muscular Strength and Mortality in Women Aged 63 to 99 Years

Is muscular strength associated with mortality in older women after controlling for aerobic activity, sedentary time, and fitness level?In this cohort study of 5472 women aged 63 to 99 years, 2 common strength tests were associated with significantly lower mortality risk after controlling for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, accelerometer-measured physical activity and sedentary behavior, and timed walk. Muscle strength was associated with lower mortality even in women not meeting guideline-recommended activity levels.These findings suggest that strength can be easily assessed in the clinical setting, and promoting its maintenance could play a key role in optimal aging.

Corresponding Author: Michael J. LaMonte, PhD, Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo – SUNY, 3435 Main St, Farber 270 (South Campus), Buffalo, NY 14214 (mlamonte@buffalo.edu).

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