A randomized outcome evaluation of group exercise programs in long-term care institutions

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Exercise Science
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Nursing home physical activity often uses seated range of motion (ROM) exercises, irrespective of resident capabilities.
• The Functional Fitness for Long-Term Care (FFLTC) Program aims to enhance ROM, strength, balance, flexibility, mobility, and function.
• FFLTC is adaptable for residents with varying mobility levels, from high to low.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the FFLTC Program in a long-term care setting.
• To compare the FFLTC Program against a standard seated ROM program.
• To assess improvements in strength, balance, mobility, and functional capacity.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 68 nursing home residents (mean age 80).
• Participants were categorized by mobility (low or high) and assigned to either FFLTC or ROM program.
• Intervention involved 45-minute group classes, three times weekly for 4 months, delivered by trained staff.

Main Results:

• The FFLTC group showed significant improvements in mobility (16%), balance (9%), flexibility (36%), and strength (knee 55%, hip 12%).
• The standard ROM group had minimal strength improvements (shoulder only) and significant declines in hip strength, mobility, and function.
• Attendance rates were high for both groups (FFLTC 86%, ROM 79%).

Conclusions:

• Institutionalized seniors, even frail individuals with cognitive impairments, benefit from challenging exercise programs like FFLTC.
• The FFLTC program provides superior benefits compared to typical seated ROM exercises.
• FFLTC is a cost-effective, safe program deliverable by trained institutional staff and volunteers.