Physical exercise and functional capacity in elderly from the south triangle health regional - Minas Gerais state, Brazil: evaluation by gender

Abstract

The aim of this study was to verify the functional capacity between genders as well as the practice of physical exercises in accordance with procedures among elderly people from municipalities in the South Triangle, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data relating to the practice of physical exercise and functional capacity were obtained by means of a structured questionnaire and the Katz scale, respectively. It was found that most of the elderly was independent to carry out the activities of daily life, even if they were not adept at exercising. Women showed a higher dependency level compared to men. As regards the modalities of exercise and those who practice them, men prefer to walk and swim, while women prefer aerobics and weight training. These results allow concluding that elderly respondents do not practice the modalities under study (walking, aqua aerobics, weight training and swimming), although they are independent to daily life activities. Regular and supervised exercise programs are recommended for elderly of all age groups, with a view to promoting a better quality of life and preventing functional incapacity.