Effects of silent myocardial ischemia on functional fitness and physical independence in 60–79-year-old adults

OBJECTIVE: We examined the effect of silent myocardial ischemia (SMI) on functional fitness levels and physical independence in 60–79-year-old individuals. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 716 older adults and used an electrocardiograph and an ambulatory electrocardiogram to diagnose those with SMI. Physical independence was assessed using the Composite Physical Function scale, whereas physical fitness was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test battery. RESULTS: The 60-79-year-old females and males with SMI were more likely to have lower scores for lower and upper body strength, agility/dynamic balance, and aerobic endurance (p < 0.05) than those without SMI. The scores for lower and upper body flexibility in all age groups for both genders were not significant (p > 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that old adults with SMI had a higher risk of losing physical independence later in life than those without SMI (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study showed that individuals with SMI have lower fitness levels and increased risk of losing physical independence than those without SMI.