Effectiveness of supervised and functional level-based exercise program in elderly inpatients: Randomised controlled
Merve Karapınar1, Nuray Kırdı2, Tüzün Fırat2
1Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, 52994Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey.
Clinical Rehabilitation
|July 26, 2022
Summary
Supervised functional exercises significantly improved mobility, physical activity, and quality of life in elderly inpatients compared to unsupervised programs. Depression also decreased post-discharge in the supervised group.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Elderly inpatients often experience functional decline.
- Exercise programs can mitigate these declines.
- Comparing supervised versus unsupervised programs is crucial for optimizing care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of supervised and unsupervised functional level-based exercise programs.
- To assess impacts on physical activity, mobility, quality of life, and depression in elderly inpatients.
Main Methods:
- Single-blinded randomized controlled trial.
- Involved elderly inpatients (≥65 years) in an internal medicine service.
- Intervention group received supervised exercises; control group received unsupervised exercises.
Main Results:
- The supervised group showed significant improvements in mobility, physical activity, and quality of life.
- Depression scores were lower in the supervised group 3 months post-discharge.
- No significant difference in hospital length of stay between groups.
Conclusions:
- Supervised functional level-based exercise programs are more effective for elderly inpatients.
- Benefits include enhanced mobility, physical activity, quality of life, and reduced depression.
- Positive outcomes are achievable even during short hospital stays.
