Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on health parameters and muscle strength of older women: A longitudinal study

Abstract

Objetives: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a 13-week COVID-19 lockdown on health-related parameters in women aged 60–70 years. Study design: Thirty women participated in this longitudinal study. All the assessments were performed before and 13 weeks after the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain (March to June 2020). Main outcome measures: A sociodemographic questionnaire was provided, and tests were performed to assess muscle strength, anthropometric measurements, densitometry, blood pressure, blood parameters, Mediterranean diet adherence, and physical activity levels. Results: After the lockdown, both healthy and unhealthy lifestyle groups showed a significant worsening of HDL, cholesterol/HDL lipids, and isometric knee extension strength parameters. However, individuals with an unhealthy lifestyle also showed a significant worsening in LDL lipids, Non-HDL lipids, bone mineral density of the femoral neck, fat mass/height (%), truncal fat mass (absolute and percentage), total fat mass (absolute and percentage) and handgrip strength. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the overall health status of Spanish older women, potentially increasing their susceptibility to comorbidities, such as lipid cholesterol, body fat, and decreased muscle strength.