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Associations Between Prior Head Injury, Physical Functioning, and Frailty in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities
Katherine J Hunzinger1, Alexa E Walter2, Kimberly A Rosenthal3
1Department of Exercise Science, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Summary
Older adults with head injuries experience worse physical function and increased frailty. Prior head injury is linked to declines in mobility and higher odds of becoming frail over time.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Older adults are susceptible to head injuries and subsequent functional decline.
- Research on the long-term physical consequences of head injury in this population is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between head injury and physical functioning and frailty in older adults.
- To examine both cross-sectional and prospective relationships.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from 5,598 Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study participants (Visit 5 to Visit 7).
- Assessed physical functioning using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and frailty using established criteria.
- Employed regression models and inverse probability of attrition weights for prospective analysis.
Main Results:
- Participants with head injury (27%) showed worse physical functioning (SPPB scores) and higher odds of being pre-frail or frail at baseline.
- Head injury was prospectively associated with a greater decline in gait speed (0.02 m/s over 5 years).
- Among initially robust individuals, head injury increased the likelihood of becoming pre-frail or frail.
Conclusions:
- Prior head injury in older adults is linked to poorer physical function and increased frailty.
- Head injury is a risk factor for future physical decline, including reduced mobility and increased frailty.
