Introduction: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common degenerative disease in older people, causing pain, stiffness and dysfunction. Objective: To determine the influence of KOA on functional performance (FP), quality of life (QoL) and pain in older women. Method: This is a cross-sectional study, in which 50 older women diagnosed with KOA and 51 without KOA participated. Participants were assessed using FP tests: Sit-to-stand (STS); Gait speed test (GST); Timed Up and Go (TUG); 6-minute walk test (6 MWT) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Pain was assessed by the visual analog scale (VAS); quality of life by applying the SF-36; and self-perception of the disease by using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Results: No intergroup statistical differences were found in the BBS (p: 0.42), STS (p: 0.59) and 6MWT (p: 0.97). However, the KOA group showed slower GS (p < 0.00) and longer time in TUG (p < 0.00). They also presented higher pain levels (p < 0.01), worse perceived health status regarding pain, stiffness and physical function (WOMAC) (p < 0.01), as well as worse QoL indices in functional capacity, physical limitations, pain and overall health status (p < 0.010). Conclusion: The results of the study demonstrate that older women with KOA showed a decline in FP, QoL and higher pain levels.

This study verified the risk factors for Anal incontinence (AI) in elderly women who exercise. Cross-sectional study with elderly women from southern Brazil. Gynecological-obstetric and behavioral information, anthropometric measurements and physical skills were evaluated. The symptoms of AI were assessed using the Colorectal-Anal Distress Inventory (CRADI-8). Variables with p ≤ 0.05 were taken into account for the logistic regression model. One hundred and twenty-nine elderly women (69.41 ± 4.95 years) participated in the study. The variables previous gynecological surgery (OR 2.18, 95% CI, 1.02–4.81), number of pregnancies (OR 1.32, 95% CI, 1.02–1.71) and urinary incontinence (UI) (OR 2.22; 95% CI, 1.01–4.87) were at risk for AI. Previous gynecological surgery, number of pregnancies and UI are risk factors for AI in elderly women who practice physical exercises. Implications for practice: We suggest to develop physical activity and rehabilitation programs aimed at the elderly population.