Time Course Changes in Physical Function Following Different Exercise Interventions for Community-Dwelling Elderly Balance and Muscle Strength Exercises

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to conduct different interventions for frail community-dwelling elderly persons and investigate the time course changes in their physical function.[Subjects] The subjects were 51 frail community-dwelling elderly over 65 years of age, classified from category 1 of needing support to category 1 of needing care. [Method] The subjects were divided into a balance exercise group (24 persons) and a muscle strength exercise group (27 persons), according to site, and exercises were performed for 1 hour once a week for 3 months. Oneleg standing with eyes open, the sit-to-stand (STS) time, timed up-and-go (TUG), and lower limb muscle strength were used to assess physical function, and their time course changes were analyzed in each group. [Results] In the balance exercise group, lower limb muscle strength had significantly increased after 1 month, and subsequently all the physical function assessments significantly improved. In the muscle strength exercise group, lower limb muscle strength increased significantly after 2 months, and subsequently the results of the STS and TUG times significantly improved.[Conclusion] In each of the exercise groups, physical function improved after increase in lower limb muscle strength. Furthermore, different responses were shown to the balance and muscle strengthening exercises.

Exercise intervention implemented by trained volunteers improves health-related quality of life among Japanese community-dwelling older females: an intervention study

“…Aging is rapidly progressing in Japan and more elderly people require daily nursing care 1 ) . Many programs have been reported to improve physical function among older people 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 ) . However, it has also been reported that improved physical function does not lead to a more active lifestyle without emotional support 9 ) .…”

“…However, it has also been reported that improved physical function does not lead to a more active lifestyle without emotional support 9 ) . Health professionals such as physical therapists and public health nurses have recently implemented exercise classes to reduce the need for nursing care 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 ) . Nevertheless, for such health professionals to reach all community-dwelling older persons in the country is economically unrealistic.…”