Locomotive Syndrome

The elderly portion of the world population has been growing more and more, increasing the prevalence of chronic diseases. This process generates a great social and economic impact, being that the increase of chronic diseases brings with it the increase of elderly being dependent on care, that is to say, functional dependents. Among the conditions associated with aging, osteoarticular disorders assume an important role, since they are very prevalent among the elderly and are important factors in generating pain, loss of mobility, balance and, ultimately, functionality. Therefore, we believe that the early identification of individuals with Locomotive Syndrome, including self-recognition, may enable early interventions and reduce the number of functional-dependent elderly as a consequence of osteoarticular pathologies. This makes it possible for the aging population to have a higher quality of life and more time free from incapacity. With the publication of this book, we aim to disseminate a new topic of grand importance, not only for geriatricians and gerontologists but also for the elderly themselves and their families.