OLDER ADULTS WITH A WEAK HANDGRIP are more likely to develop depression. A stronger handgrip may provide protection, according to new research.
Depression is a chronic condition that can impair physical and mental functioning. While its presentation is variable, depression often involves low energy and mood, sadness, insomnia, and the inability to enjoy life.
The Global Burden of Disease study shows that depression incidence worldwide has risen by approximately 50 percent from 1990 to 2017. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the prevalence compared with pre-pandemic levels.
Depression is linked to increased odds of developing high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and suicide attempts. It is a leading cause of global disease burden (disability-adjusted life-years) and years lost.
A growing body of evidence demonstrates an association between muscle strength (using handgrip as a measure) and depression in healthy middle-aged and older adults.
Given the public health burden of depression, early intervention is important, as prompt management may reduce depression incidence by about one-quarter in high-income countries.
Muscle strength and depression
Handgrip strength is relatively easy to measure and is a reliable indicator of age-related muscle mass loss (sarcopenia) and strength (dynapenia).
In addition, handgrip strength is a useful single marker of frailty. Frailty is associated with poor health outcomes, including falls, disability, hospital admissions, and early mortality.
A new study of older adults from 24 countries provides evidence that a weak handgrip in older adults is associated with a higher risk for depression. In contrast, a stronger handgrip appears to have protective effects.
Researchers gathered information from the population-based Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). The 115 601 subjects had an average age of 64.3.
Handgrip strength and depression — Study results
Here are the study results:
Higher levels of handgrip strength were associated with a lower risk of depression. When categorized, handgrip strength exhibited an inverse association with the risk of depression.
Continuous handgrip exhibited an inverse association with depression risk for both men and women.
This study is the first longitudinal one to investigate the association between handgrip strength and depression risk in older adults (using repeated measurements in numerous countries).
I look forward to seeing more strength studies aimed at older adults to reduce depression risk potentially. Healthcare workers may consider using the study handgrip thresholds to screen for potential depression risk in older adults.
The information I provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you seek medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. I am not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information in this blog.
Thank you for joining me in this look at the relationship between handgrip and depression risk.
