OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with changes in gait speed and strength of handgrip in institutionalized elderly in the city of Natal-RN. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study conducted with a sample of 20 elderly (11 women and 9 men), selected among a non-random for convenience. Data were collected by questionnaire and measurements of handgrip and gait speed, which constituted the physical tests. RESULTS: We found statistically significant differences (p <0.05) between genders as to the time of institutionalization, a feeling of self reported fatigue, grip strength and cognitive level. We also found correlations between the handgrip and the time of asylum (r= -0,54), cognitive function (MMSE) (r= 0,62), height (r= 0,79) and body mass (r= 0,82); gait speed was significantly correlated with MMSE (r= 0,45) and independence in instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) (r= 0,47). CONCLUSION: Changes in handgrip and gait speed are common among the institutionalized elderly, more susceptible to the syndrome of frailty, and thus the functional and cognitive losses, which favor the advancement of their limitations. Thus, investigating the health of these individuals may be useful to detect a profile of vulnerability and identify what type of care and intervention priority would be to improve to increase the functionality and quality of life of these elderly.
Health of Institutionalized Elderly; Hand Strength; Gait; Activities of Daily Living; Cognition; Handgrip; Natal city