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An Active Retirement Programme, a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Sensorimotor Training Programme for Older Adults:
Carolina Alexandra Cabo1, Orlando Fernandes1,2, María Mendoza-Muñoz3
1Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Largo dos Colegiais 2, 7000-645 Évora, Portugal.
This study demonstrates that an active retirement program significantly improves older adults' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and physical fitness. The six-month exercise intervention enhanced body composition and physical activity levels (PAL) in Portuguese seniors.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Regular exercise programs enhance health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and well-being in older adults.
- Active retirement initiatives are crucial for promoting healthy aging and disease prevention in seniors.
- Sedentary lifestyles in older populations contribute to chronic diseases and reduced quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a structured active retirement program on Portuguese older adults.
- To assess changes in body composition, physical fitness, HRQoL, and physical activity level (PAL) following the intervention.
- To provide evidence for the broader implementation of effective exercise programs in community and municipal settings.
Main Methods:
- A parallel-group randomized controlled trial was designed for the study.
- Participants underwent assessments for body composition, physical fitness (strength, flexibility, agility, postural control, gait), HRQoL, and PAL.
- The intervention involved a six-month program (2 days/week, 45 min) with progressive circuit training, followed by a one-year follow-up.
Main Results:
- The active retirement program led to significant improvements in older adults' physical fitness components.
- Participants showed enhanced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and increased physical activity levels (PAL).
- Positive changes in body composition were observed, indicating the program's holistic benefits.
Conclusions:
- The active retirement program is an effective strategy for improving the health and well-being of older adults.
- Findings support the integration of such programs into health and social services to promote active aging.
- Exercise interventions are vital for preventing inactivity-related diseases and enhancing quality of life in the elderly population.
