Fitness and cognitive status on aging has been widely studied and well reported on literature. Independence and functioning are decisive in elders life quality. Motor competence has been associated to children physical activity levels and healthy weight status. Whether or not Motor Competence has additional value in promoting physical function on aging is not well stablished.
PURPOSE: to investigate the relationship and influence of motor competence, physical fitness and cognitive status on physical functioning, in aged population.
METHODS: institutionalized participants were recruited as a convenience sample in three day-care centers (N=283, women N=184, mean age = 82.05±7.70 years). Physical functioning was assessed through self-report using a composite physical function scale. Physical fitness was evaluated with the Senior Fitness Test. Motor competence was evaluated as the proficiency in overarm throw a tennis ball, measuring the ball velocity, and standing long jump. Cognitive performance was assessed with Mini-Mental State Examination test. T test was used to test the difference between women and men in all variables. Pearson correlation between physical functioning, physical fitness and motor competence was performed. Stepwise regression was used to identify the predictor variables of physical functioning. Significance was set at p < 0.05.
RESULTS: Men had significant better motor competence and physical fitness results than women. In women, the highest correlation were found between physical functioning and Chair stand (r=0.25), standing long jump (r=0.19) and 2-min step (r=0.19). In men, the highest correlation were found on 2-min step (r=0.30) and overarm throw (r=0.27). Stepwise regression retained the following variables: 2.44 m up-&-Go, standing long jump, and sex (F_{(3; 212)} = 33.73; p < 0.001, R² = 0.32). Men has an estimate of more 2.162 points in physical functioning than women. Physical functioning is estimate to increased 1 point for every -0.151 s in 2.44 m Up-&-Go, and 1 point for every 0.051 cm in standing long jump.
CONCLUSION: Despite having found significant moderate to low correlations in both men and women, it seems that both Motor Competence and Fitness status has important influence on physical functioning.