Association Between Handgrip Strength and Fatigability and Cognitive Performance in Adults Aged 65 and Older

BACKGROUND/AIMS: To explore the relationship between handgrip strength, fatigability, and cognitive function in older adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 89 adults aged 65-85 who were re-ceiving services from a physical therapy and rehabilitation center. Handgrip strength and fatigability were assessed using the Biopac Student Laboratory, and cognitive function was evaluated using the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination (SMMSE). RESULTS: Handgrip strength was moderately correlated with cognitive function. There was no relation-ship between handgrip fatigability and cognitive function. The regression analysis indicated that an increase in grip strength would lead to a 0.59-point increase in the SMMSE score. It can be stated that the average SMMSE score of an individual with a secondary school education is 2.28, high school graduate is 2.94, and university graduate is 3.45 points higher than an individual with only a primary school education. These increases were found to be statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that the decline in cognitive functions associated with aging should be considered alongside motor functions like muscle strength, and various individual factors.