1.
Physical training in institutionalized elderly people with multiple diagnoses--a controlled pilot study.
Rydwik, E, Frändin, K, Akner, G
Archives of gerontology and geriatrics. 2005;(1):29-44
Abstract
Reduction in muscle mass and physical function depends on a variety of interacting factors: age, physical activity level, nutritional state and the type and impact of disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an individualized moderate intensity physical training program on muscle strength, balance, mobility, ambulation and activities of daily living (ADL) in institutionalized elderly people aged 65 and over with multiple diagnoses. Baseline assessments consisted of strength, balance, mobility/ambulation, and ADL. Twenty-one subjects were included in the intervention program. A control group (21 subjects) was first matched in pairs according to gender, age, ADL and mobility, and then by balance, ambulation and strength. The intervention program was individualized and included strength, mobility, balance and endurance training. Follow-up measures were conducted directly after the intervention and 10 weeks later. After drop-out, 20 subjects in the intervention group and 15 subjects in the control group remained for analyses. Balance and mobility improved significantly in the intervention group while declining in the control group. This pilot study indicates that a physical training program may improve functional capacity for institutionalized elderly persons with multiple diagnoses.
2.
The effect of 6 months training on leg power, balance, and functional mobility of independently living adults over 70 years old.
Ramsbottom, R, Ambler, A, Potter, J, Jordan, B, Nevill, A, Williams, C
Journal of aging and physical activity. 2004;(4):497-510
Abstract
Where strength training has been used in conjunction with functional-task training in older people, not only have there been improvements in leg strength but also improved function has been measured (e.g., Skelton & McLaughlin, 1996). Many studies use participants from care homes rather than community dwellers. We investigated changes in leg power, balance, and functional mobility in community-dwelling sedentary men and women over 70 years of age (n = 6 for training group [TR]; n = 10 for control group [CN]). Progressive training took place over 24 weeks using seated and nonseated exercise. For TR, leg power increased 40%, from 108 +/- 40 to 141 +/- 53 W (p < .01); dynamic balance increased 48%, from 22.3 +/- 7.9 to 33.1 +/- 6.1 cm (p < .01; functional reach); and functional mobility increased 12%, from 7.46 +/- 1.32 to 6.54 +/- 1.41 s (p < .05; timed walk). CN showed no significant change. In conclusion, a community-based exercise program led to large improvements in leg-extensor power, dynamic balance, and functional mobility.