Race Differences in Walking Speed and Fitness in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Coen Paul, Distefano Giovanna, Ramos Sofhia, Cawthon Peggy, Cummings Steven R, Newman Anne B, DeLany James
Primary Institution: AdventHealth, Orlando, Florida, United States
Hypothesis
Do older adults who are Black have lower fitness and mitochondrial energetics compared to those who are White?
Conclusion
The study found that older Black adults had slower walking speeds and lower fitness levels compared to their White counterparts.
Supporting Evidence
- Black adults had a slower 400m walking speed compared to White adults.
- Black adults showed lower mitochondrial respiration rates than White adults.
- Cardiorespiratory fitness was lower in Black adults compared to White adults.
Takeaway
Older Black adults walk slower and have less fitness than older White adults, which might be due to differences in muscle energy use.
Methodology
The study used a sample of older adults who completed a 400m walk, measuring mitochondrial respiration and cardiorespiratory fitness.
Participant Demographics
879 older adults (≥70 years old), including 116 who self-identified as Black.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.014, p<0.001, p=0.007
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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