In 2012, a recent study conducted by Eduarda Lubambo Costa and colleagues, the effects of a specialized exercise program on handgrip strength (HS) in elderly women with low bone mass were investigated. The study aimed to assess the potential benefits of regular exercise on the physical well-being of this demographic.

The study included 36 elderly women who were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (GI) or the control group (GC), with 18 participants in each group. To measure handgrip strength, a handgrip dynamometer was employed. Over a period of four months, GI engaged in a comprehensive program that included strength, balance, and functional mobility exercises. Meanwhile, GC focused on stretching exercises. Both groups attended 50-minute sessions twice a week.

The findings revealed a significant and noteworthy increase in handgrip strength among participants in the intervention group (GI) – an impressive 31.38% improvement. Conversely, the control group (GC) did not experience any significant changes in handgrip strength.

Furthermore, the study uncovered correlations between the handgrip strength test and bone mineral density (BMD) measurements. Notably, a positive relationship was observed between handgrip strength and BMD at the femoral neck (r = 0.582, p = 0.003) and total femur (r = 0.485, p = 0.01), suggesting that handgrip strength may serve as a valuable indicator of bone health in elderly women with low bone mass.

In summary, the study’s results offer promising insights into the potential for improving handgrip strength among elderly women with low bone mass through a structured exercise program. These findings underscore the importance of physical activity in maintaining bone health in aging populations. Additionally, the observed correlations between handgrip strength and BMD highlight the relevance of assessing handgrip strength as a complementary tool for monitoring bone health in this demographic. Further research in this area may contribute to enhanced strategies for promoting the overall well-being of elderly individuals with low bone mass.

Reference: Costa, E. L., Moura, M. D. S., Sousa, T. S. D., Lemos, A., & Pedrosa, M. A. C. (2012). Effects of a group exercise program on handgrip strength of elderly women with low bone mass. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab, 56(5), 313-318.