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Improving Strength, Power, Muscle Aerobic Capacity, and Glucose Tolerance through Short-term Progressive Strength Training Among Elderly People
Published on: July 5, 2017
Effects of resistance training on functional ability in elderly individuals
Mariane M Fahlman1, Nancy McNevin, Debra Boardley
1Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48202, USA. m.fahlman@wayne.edu
American Journal of Health Promotion : AJHP
|March 3, 2011
Summary
This 16-week strength training program improved functional ability, including upper- and lower-body strength, in elderly individuals. These findings highlight the importance of exercise for maintaining independence and reducing health risks in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Exercise Science
- Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy
Background:
- Functional limitations in the elderly are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and need for assisted living.
- Strength training is a potential intervention to mitigate functional decline in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the effects of a 16-week strength training program on functional ability in elderly individuals with functional limitations.
Main Methods:
- A quasi-experimental trial involving 87 functionally limited elderly participants (65-93 years) assigned to an exercise or control group.
- The intervention group engaged in 16 weeks of strength training using resistive bands, three times per week.
- Functional ability was assessed using measures of upper- and lower-body strength and gait parameters.
Main Results:
- The exercise group showed significant improvements in upper-body strength (biceps curl) and lower-body strength (chair sit-to-stand).
- Gait velocity and step length increased at mid-intervention but were not sustained at the study's end.
- The control group exhibited minimal changes in functional measures compared to the exercise group.
Conclusions:
- A 16-week structured strength training program can enhance specific measures of functional ability in functionally limited elderly individuals.
- Exercise interventions are crucial for promoting future functioning, independence, and potentially reducing health risks in the elderly population.
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