Muscle strength training program in nonagenarians - a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Maintaining functional capacity and quality of life (QOL) is crucial for nonagenarian women in residential care.
• Muscle strength training is a potential intervention to counteract age-related decline in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of an individualized muscle strength training program on functional capacity and QOL in nonagenarian women.
• To evaluate the program's effectiveness in a geriatric residential care setting.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 26 elderly women, divided into a control group (CG) and a strength training group (SG).
• The SG participated in a 12-week strength program using TheraBands®, with two weekly sessions.
• Assessments included the Barthel index, five times sit-to-stand test (FTSTS), and timed up and go (TUG) test with sensors.

Main Results:

• The SG maintained Barthel index scores for activities of daily living and improved in the FTSTS.
• The CG demonstrated a significant decrease in both Barthel index and FTSTS scores.
• Significant between-group differences were observed in dynamic balance tests, including sit-to-stand, turning, and overall speed.

Conclusions:

• Individualized muscle strength training programs can help maintain autonomy and improve function and balance in nonagenarian women.
• Such programs may contribute to promoting healthy lifestyles and functional independence in geriatric populations.