[Characteristics of functional training and effects on physical activities of daily living]

The effects of functional training on physical Activities of Daily Living (ADL) based on the Health and Medical Service Law for the Elderly have been controversial. The aim of the present study was to explore its characteristics and influence with a large sample.

669 participants and 1,110 non-participants in functional training were recruited from 54 cities and villages in 1998. The effects of functional training on physical ADL were evaluated by comparing the baseline ADL and 1-year follow-up ADL in the "index of Activities of Daily Living for bedridden elderly (1993)".

1. The change in physical ADL in participants was significantly better than that in non-participants after adjusting for age. 2. Significant effects of functional training were observed in both sexes, in all three age groups, and in ranks J, A and B. 3. There was no significant difference between the sexes in terms of the influence of functional training. Functional training was more effective in the younger group, in stroke subjects, and individuals suffering from any disease within one year prior to the baseline. 4. A total of 16.4% of the participants demonstrated increased physical ADL, while 7.2% of the participants also had increased mobility.

Functional training has a significant positive effect on increase of physical ADL. Functional training based on the Health and Medical Service Law for the Elderly is an effective program especially for homebound and/or frail people who are at risk of becoming bedridden. Further longitudinal studies are now needed to improve functional training for increasing ADL and QOL.