The Association between Social Support and Musculoskeletal Health in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Findings from the Hertfordshire Cohort Study.

ABSTRACT: Previous studies suggest social support is associated with musculoskeletal health in later life. We explored this relationship further in community-dwelling older adults, by considering associations between different aspects of social support and musculoskeletal health in community-dwelling adults. Participants from the Hertfordshire Cohort Study reported level of confiding/emotional, practical, and negative support using the Close Persons Questionnaire. Muscle strength was measured by grip strength dynamometry, and physical capability by timed up-and-go, chair rises, and walking speed tests. Bone mineral density (BMD) was assessed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Linear regression, adjusted for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), alcohol, smoking, physical activity, social class, and

SUBMITTER: Bevilacqua G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11698837 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature