The Value of Handgrip Strength and Self-Rated Squat Ability in Predicting Mild Cognitive Impairment: Development and Validation of a Prediction Model

Abstract

Early identification of individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is essential to combat worldwide dementia threats. Physical function indicators might be low-cost early markers for cognitive decline. To establish an early identification tool for MCI by combining physical function indicators (upper and lower limb function) via a clinical prediction modeling strategy. A total of 5393 participants aged 60 or older were included in the model. The variables selected for the model included sociodemographic characteristics, behavioral factors, mental status and chronic conditions, upper limb function (handgrip strength), and lower limb function (self-rated squat ability). Two models were developed to test the predictive value of handgrip strength (Model 1) or self-rated squat ability (Model 2) separately, and Model 3 was developed by combining handgrip strength and self-rated squat ability. The 3 models all yielded good discrimination performance (area under the curve values ranged from 0.719 to 0.732). The estimated net reclassification improvement values were 0.3279 and 0.1862 in Model 3 when comparing Model 3 to Model 1 and Model 2, respectively. The integrated discrimination improvement values were estimated as 0.0139 and 0.0128 when comparing Model 3 with Model 1 and Model 2, respectively. The model that contains both upper and lower limb function has better performance in predicting MCI. The final prediction model is expected to assist health workers in early identification of MCI, thus supporting early interventions to reduce future risk of AD, particularly in socioeconomically deprived communities.

Development and validation of a risk prediction model for motoric cognitive risk syndrome in older adults

“…Regular exercise can help maintain greater muscle strength and enhance cardiovascular function after middle age, contributing to improved health in later years and cognitive function. Similarly, as a validated measure of muscle strength, our study revealed a positive correlation between prolonged FTSS duration and an increased risk of MCR, aligning with the outcomes of Han Xiao’s research [ 42 ]. The FTSS test examines participants’ ability to transition from sitting to standing positions, a process that is influenced by balance and multiple sensorimotor factors [ 43 ], which may explain why FTSSis associated with cognitive function.…”

Development and validation of a risk prediction model for motoric cognitive risk syndrome in older adults

“…Regular exercise can help maintain greater muscle strength and enhance cardiovascular function after middle age, contributing to improved health in later years and cognitive function. Similarly, as a validated measure of muscle strength, our study revealed a positive correlation between prolonged FTSS duration and an increased risk of MCR, aligning with the outcomes of Han Xiao's research [35] . The FTSS test examines participants' ability to transition from sitting to standing positions, a process that is in uenced by balance and multiple sensorimotor factors [36] , which may explain why FTSS may be associated with cognitive function.…”