The effects of an active-assisted stretching program on functional performance in elderly persons: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Aging is associated with decreased range of motion (ROM) and functional performance.
• Elderly individuals in residential communities often have limited physical reserves.
• Maintaining mobility and function is crucial for independence in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of an eight-week active-assisted (AA) stretching program.
• To assess changes in functionality, mobility, power, and ROM in elderly residents.
• To compare the effects of AA stretching against a control group with limited physical activity.

Main Methods:

• Seventeen elderly volunteers (mean age 88.8 years) were randomized into AA or control groups.
• The AA group performed 10 AA stretches twice weekly for eight weeks.
• Flexibility and functional tests were administered pre- and post-intervention; data analyzed using ANCOVA.

Main Results:

• The AA group showed significant improvements in ROM for most joints (p < 0.05).
• All functional performance measures significantly increased in the AA group (p < 0.05).
• The control group exhibited no significant improvements in functional or ROM measures.

Conclusions:

• An eight-week AA stretching program is effective in reducing age-related ROM loss.
• This flexibility program enhances functional performance in elderly individuals with limited physical reserves.
• AA stretching offers a viable intervention to improve mobility and function in the elderly population.