Breathing exercises in older adults with asthma: a blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Breathing exercises have been found to benefit patients with some respiratory disorders, but can take a significant amount of time to complete. The effects of a breathing exercise program are unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a short multi-component exercise program for older adults with asthma.

To be included, subjects were age 65 years or older with persistent asthma. 90 subjects with predominantly moderate to severe asthma were randomized, 45 each, into either the exercise or control groups. After in person training at the initial visit, those in the exercise group performed a short three-part exercise program twice per day at home for one month. Those in the control group performed 2 breaths with the incentive spirometer twice per day. At the initial visit patients completed baseline questionnaires assessing demographic information, asthma control (Asthma Control Test - ACT) and quality of life (mini-Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire - mini-AQLQ) as well as spirometry. After the one-month period at the follow-up visit the ACT, mini-AQLQ, and spirometry were repeated.

Subjects in the intervention felt that breathing exercises were helpful, and 87% would recommend them to a friend. Although both groups had improvement in ACT and mini-AQLQ, there were no differences between groups. FEV1 was lower in both groups.

Although a short breathing exercise program was acceptable for older adults with asthma, it did not produce meaningful improvements in asthma outcomes. A longer program may be necessary.