Article

This study examines the effect of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on
function and physical performance in older overweight military Veterans with
comorbid conditions. This is a secondary data analysis of older Veterans (mean
age = 62.9 yr) participating in a physical activity counseling trial. Study
participants with PTSD (n = 67) and without PTSD (n = 235) were identified.
Self-reported physical function (36-item Short Form Health Survey) and directly
measured physical performance (mobility, aerobic endurance, strength) were
assessed. Multivariate analyses of variance controlling for demographic factors
and psychiatric disorders demonstrated significant physical impairment among
those with PTSD. PTSD was negatively associated with self-reported physical
function, functioning in daily activities, and general health (p < 0.01). Those
with PTSD also performed significantly worse on tests of lower-limb function (p <
0.05). Despite being significantly younger, Veterans with PTSD had comparable
scores on gait speed, aerobic endurance, grip strength, and bodily pain compared
with Veterans without PTSD. This study provides preliminary data for the negative
association between PTSD and physical function in older military Veterans. These
data highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring of physical performance among
returning Veterans with PTSD and intervening in older overweight Veterans with
PTSD, whose physical performance scores are indicative of accelerated risk of
premature functional aging.

Langue : ANGLAIS