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Bone T-scores and functional status: a cross-sectional study on German elderly
Shoma Berkemeyer1, Jochen Schumacher, Ulrich Thiem
1Department of Geriatrics, University of Bochum, Marienhospital Herne, Herne, Germany. shoma.berkemeyer@ruhr-uni-bochum.de
Plos One
|December 17, 2009
Summary
Bone T-scores are linked to reduced functional status in older adults. Early osteoporosis screening may help maintain quality of life and independence in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Osteoporosis Research
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Bone T-scores are crucial for osteoporosis diagnosis.
- Bone health may significantly influence functional status and independence in the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between bone T-scores and functional status in community-dwelling elderly individuals.
- To determine if bone health impacts elderly functional status and independence.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 440 community-dwelling elderly (>=75 years) in Germany (2005-2006).
- Bone T-scores measured using Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry.
- Functional status assessed via geriatric tests including activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and timed-up-and-go test.
Main Results:
- Bone T-scores predicted activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and timed-up-and-go test performance (P <= 0.05).
- A unit improvement in T-score correlated with improved standardized and raw pooled functional status.
- Results were limited by potential selection bias and the need for follow-up studies.
Conclusions:
- Lower bone T-scores are associated with reduced functional status in older adults.
- Regular osteoporosis screening could be a preventive strategy to maintain elderly quality of life and independence.
