Objective: This study aimed to optimize Fall Risk Appraisal (FRA) graphing for use in intervention programs tailored toward reducing the fall risk of older adults by using computing graphic functions in the R language.
Materials And Methods: We utilized RStudio, a free development environment for the R language, as well as the functions within the "ggplot2" and "grid" packages, to develop a code that would recreate the FRA matrix for use in data visualization and analysis, as well as feedback for older adults.
Results: The developed code successfully recreates the FRA matrix in R and allows researchers and clinicians to graph participant data onto the matrix itself.
Despite BIA emerging as a clinical tool for assessing older adults, it remains unclear how to calculate whole-body impedance (Z), reactance (Xc), resistance (R), and phase angle (PhA) from segmental values using modern BIA devices that place electrodes on both sides of the body. This investigation aimed to compare both the whole-body and segmental device-generated phase angle (PhA) with the phase angle calculated using summed Z, Xc, and R from the left, right, and combined sides of the body (PhA) and to compare bioelectric variables between sides of the body. A sample of 103 community-dwelling older adults was assessed using a 50 kHz direct segmental multifrequency BIA device.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPurpose: Physical disabilities may exacerbate the natural decline in sleep quality that occurs with aging. In the current study, we assessed sleep quality and medicinal sleep aid use among 87 community-dwelling older adults with ( = 24) and without ( = 63) physical disabilities.
Method: Sleep quality, duration, and efficiency were assessed subjectively with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index.
Purpose: The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has implemented the Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries (STEADI) initiative. This initiative provides an algorithm for fall risk screening. However, the algorithm has the potential to overcategorize individuals as high risk for falling upon initial screening, which may burden clinicians with the task of recategorizing individuals after follow-up testing.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Older adults experience a significant decline in muscle integrity and function with aging. Early detection of decreased muscle quality can pave the way for interventions to mitigate the progression of age-related physical declines. Phase angle (PhA) and impedance ratio (IR) are measures of muscle integrity, which can be assessed quickly via bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and may be indicative of physical function.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBodybuilding is a sport where coaches commonly recommend a variety of nutrition and exercise protocols, supplements, and, sometimes, performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). The present study sought to gain an understanding of the common decisions and rationales employed by bodybuilding coaches. Focusing on coaches of the more muscular divisions in the National Physique Committee/IFBB Professional League federations (men's classic physique, men's bodybuilding, women's physique, women's bodybuilding) for both natural and enhanced athletes, coaches were recruited via word of mouth and social media, and 33 responded to an anonymous online survey.
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