André Ramalho

Prof. Dr. André Ramalho

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Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

9Years (2018-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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FSFernanda M. Silva
Fernanda M. Silva
JPJoão Petrica
João Petrica
João SerranoJoão Serrano
João Serrano
Rui Miguel Duarte PauloRui Miguel Duarte Paulo
Rui Miguel Duarte Paulo
ARAndré Ramalho
André Ramalho
PDPedro Duarte-Mendes
Pedro Duarte-Mendes
Background: Ageing is a life-long process characterized by a progressive loss of physical fitness compromising strength, flexibility, and agility. The purpose of this study was to use accelerometry to examine the relationship between sedentary time, light physical activity (LPA), and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) with the elderly’s physical fitness. Additionally, we aimed to examine the association between the aforementioned variables on older adults who fulfilled global recommendations on physical activity for health and on those who did not fulfil these recommendations. Methods: Eighty-three elderly (mean ± SD: 72.14 ± 5.61 years old) of both genders volunteered to participate in this cross-sectional study, being divided into an active group (n = 53; 71.02 ± 5.27 years old) and an inactive group (n = 30; 74.13 ± 5.72 years old) according to the established guidelines. Sedentary and physical activity times were assessed using an ActiGraph® GT1M accelerometer, whereas physical fitness was evaluated with the Senior Fitness Test. Results: MVPA time was correlated with lower body mass index (BMI) ((rs = −0.218; p = 0.048; −0.3 < r ≤ −0.1 (small)) and shorter time to complete the agility test ((rs = −0.367; p = 0.001; −0.5 < r ≤ −0.3 (low)). Moreover, MVPA time was positively correlated with aerobic endurance ((rs = 0.397; p = 0.000; 0.5 < r ≤ 0.3 (low)) and strength ((rs = 0.243; p = 0.027; 0.3 < r ≤ 0.1 (small)). In the inactive group, MVPA time was positively correlated with upper limb flexibility ((rs = 0.400; p = 0.028; 0.5 < r ≤ 0.3 (low)); moreover, sedentary time was negatively correlated with upper limb flexibility ((r = −0.443; p = 0.014; −0.5 < r ≤ −0.3 (low)), and LPA time was negatively correlated with BMI ((r = −0.423; p = 0.020; −0.5 < r ≤ −0.3 (low)). In the active group, MVPA time was correlated with lower BMI ((rs = −0.320; p = 0.020; −0.5 < r ≤ −0.3 (low)), and shorter time to complete agility test ((rs = −0.296; p = 0.031; −0.3 < r ≤ −0.1 (small)). Conclusions: Our results reinforce the importance of promoting MVPA practice among the elderly, thereby allowing physical fitness maintenance or improvement.

6 August 2023 in Healthcare
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Journal Article
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ARAndré Ramalho
André Ramalho
JPJoão Petrica
João Petrica
Sedentary behavior poses a significant health risk to older adults. The purpose of this scoping review is to summarize key findings from qualitative research (since 2012), with a focus on explaining prevailing research trends and patterns within the field. This review included 25 studies that met the strict inclusion criteria. Five key research themes have emerged: (1) defining and shaping perspectives of sedentary behavior, (2) understanding the dynamics of daily routines and contexts, (3) raising awareness of older adults’ perceived advantages and disadvantages of sedentary behavior, (4) identifying its determinants and discouraging factors, and (5) exploring interventions to promote active behaviors and reduce sedentary behavior. These themes highlight the multifaceted nature of SB and underscore the importance of tailoring interventions to address individual, social, and environmental issues. A comprehensive understanding of SB is critical to developing effective strategies to promote active lifestyles and reduce SB in older adults. Further qualitative research is needed to deepen our understanding and develop targeted interventions and strategies.

24 May 2018 in Motricidade
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Journal Article
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ARAndré Ramalho
André Ramalho
JPJoão Petrica
João Petrica
ARAntonio Rosado
Antonio Rosado
This systematic review aimed to synthesize the scientific evidence about the relationship between sedentary behaviours and various psychological outcomes in older adults. The study searches were conducted in the following databases: PubMed, PsycINFO, ISI Web of Knowledge and ScienceDirect. We selected 15 observational quantitative studies according to specific eligibility criteria. The data extraction was performed independently by different authors, including the evaluation of the risk of bias of the studies and the classification of the force of evidence. The results showed a tendency of showing no associations between the sedentary behaviours, the well-being and quality of life of the elderly. Concerning life satisfaction and perceived stress, it seems that active sedentary activities have positive effects on these indicators. Evidence has also suggested that some sedentary behaviours may help maintain some cognitive functions in the elderly population, namely in different types of memory. In other studies, it has been demonstrated a tendency that too much time in passive sedentary activities has been associated with depressive symptomatology. However, this review suggested that the evidence is not yet consistent in the relationship between the sedentary behaviours of the elderly and the indicators analysed, and more research is needed.

8 February 2024 in Frontiers in Public Health
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Journal Article
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ARAndré Ramalho
André Ramalho
PDPedro Duarte-Mendes
Pedro Duarte-Mendes
RPRui Paulo
Rui Paulo
João SerranoJoão Serrano
João Serrano
JPJoão Petrica
João Petrica
In the dynamic web of our digital age, virtual reality (VR) is crystallizing as a promising medium for promoting physical activity in older adults, overcoming age-old barriers. This perspective article explores the intricate synergy between VR and physical activity in older adults and highlights the many challenges of aging within a virtual environment. While VR heralds the potential for multisensory interaction and cognitive enhancement, a thorough assessment of its impact is paramount. The reach of VR goes beyond immediate applications and permeates the emotional and psychological realms of the human journey. Such an exploration requires a comprehensive perspective that goes beyond a purely technical assessment. The aim of this article is not to present clear-cut solutions, but to encourage reflection on the diverse impact of VR on our aging population. We argue for a future in which technology complements, rather than eclipses, the depth of human experience.

ARAndré Ramalho
André Ramalho
JPJoão Petrica
João Petrica
This comprehensive review examines critical aspects of evidence-based human kinetics, focusing on bridging the gap between scientific evidence and practical implementation. To bridge this gap, the development of tailored education and training programs is essential, providing practitioners with the expertise and skills to effectively apply evidence-based programs and interventions. The effectiveness of these programs in improving physical fitness across all age groups has been widely demonstrated. In addition, integrating artificial intelligence and the principles of slow science into evidence-based practice promises to identify gaps in knowledge and stimulate further research in human kinetics. The purpose of this review is to provide researchers and practitioners with comprehensive information on the application of scientific principles in human kinetics. By highlighting the importance of evidence-based practice, this review is intended to promote the adoption of effective interventions to optimize physical health and enhance performance.

1 May 2024 in Healthcare
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
ARAndré Ramalho
André Ramalho
Rui Miguel Duarte PauloRui Miguel Duarte Paulo
Rui Miguel Duarte Paulo
PDPedro Duarte-Mendes
Pedro Duarte-Mendes
João SerranoJoão Serrano
João Serrano
JPJoão Petrica
João Petrica
This brief narrative review assesses how digital technologies—such as wearables, mobile health apps, and various digital tools such as computers, game consoles, tablets, smartphones, and extended reality systems—can influence sedentary and physical activity behaviors among community-dwelling older adults. Each section highlights the central role of these technologies in promoting active aging through increased motivation, engagement and customized experiences. It underlines the critical importance of functionality, usability and adaptability of devices and confirms the effectiveness of digital interventions in increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior. The sustainable impact of these technologies needs to be further investigated, with a focus on adapting digital health strategies to the specific needs of older people. The research advocates an interdisciplinary approach and points out that such collaborations are essential for the development of accessible, effective and ethical solutions. This perspective emphasizes the potential of digital tools to improve the health and well-being of the aging population and recommends their strategic integration into health promotion and policy making.