Grip strength and physical demand of previous occupation in a well-functioning cohort of Chinese older adults

The grip strength of 214 independently ambulatory Chinese older adults (M age = 75.1 +/- 7.0 yr.) was measured, and preliminary mean values presented. Their previous occupations were recorded, and the physical demands of those occupations in terms of oxygen consumption and work done were classified. Grip strength generally decreased across age groups. The physical demand of individuals' previous occupations had significant associations with grip strength, for example, participants who previously worked as construction site workers had a greater grip strength than those who worked previously as office workers.