47 Grip strength, musculoskeletal health and quality of life: results of a 2-year evaluation of an over 60’s phase 4/community exercise programme

<h3>Background</h3> Community exercise programmes have been shown to confer multiple cardiovascular health benefits and improved quality of life (QoL) in older adults and those with a history of CVD. However, the components of such programmes likely determine their effectiveness on health outcomes. <h3>Aim</h3> This study aimed to assess the effects of attending a phase 4/community exercise programme for individuals over 60 years old on grip strength, QoL, and musculoskeletal (MSK) health. <h3>Methods</h3> Participants were recruited from a phase 4/over 60s exercise class in the North West of the UK in November 2022 with repeat measurements taken the following year. Those meeting the entry criteria had grip strength assessed using a digital dynamometer. Grip strength was compared to age- and sex-matched 50th centile values. MSK health was assessed using a validated questionnaire (MSK-HQ). Quality of life was assessed using the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. The study received approval from the Health Research Ethics Committee at Edge Hill University. <h3>Results</h3> Thirty five (35) participants took part in the study (including 21 from year 1 and 15 joining the study in year 2). Mean age of the group at year 2 was 71.6±6.0 years). Mean group grip strength (kg) of the dominant hand in year 1 was 20.4±7.6 and 21.0±7.1 in year 2 (P=0.413). When year 2 grip values were compared to age- and sex-matched values, the groups average was significantly (P=0.003) below population controls (21.0±7.1 vs. 26.3±6.6, respectively). Mean MSK-HQ remained unchanged (P=0.816) between years 1 and 2 (48.3±9.8 vs 48.6±6.3, respectively). Whilst there was a small increase in EQindex between years 1 and 2, this was not statistically significant (0.88±0.14 vs. 0.93±0.09, respectively, P=0.085). <h3>Conclusion</h3> Despite a non-significant trend in QoL improvement, strength of the participants was below corresponding UK values. This group of participants requires increased efforts to promote strength-based activities to improve health.