Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2025

Walk with Me Hybrid Virtual/In-Person Walking for Older Adults with Neurodegenerative Disease
Published on: June 16, 2023
Effects of Physical Activity on Physical Fitness and Functional Ability in Older Adults
Bimba Wickramarachchi1,2, Mohammad R Torabi3, Bilesha Perera1
1University of Ruhuna, Galle, Sri Lanka.
Abstract:
A cross-sectional survey was done to investigate the pathways the physical activity acts in improving physical fitness and functional outcomes of older adults (60 years and above) using 880 community-dwelling older adults in Sri Lanka. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used. The final SEM model included five latent factors and 14 co-variances. Goodness of Fit Index (GFI), Comparative fit index (CFI) and Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) values of the model were 0.95, 0.93, 0.91, and 0.05 respectively, indicating a good model fit. Strength enhances balance (β = .52, p < .01) and reduces the time required to complete physical functions (β = -.65, p < .01). Since strength declines with advancing age, muscle-strengthening activity programs should be promoted to enhance balance and functional performances in older adults in advanced ages. Strength test (hand grip and leg strength) can be used as a screening test to predict potential risk of falls and functional disabilities in older adults.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
The Effect of Aging on Tissues
Exercise and Cardiac Output
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be...
Exercise and Muscle Performance
Endurance exercises
Endurance exercises involve running, swimming, or cycling, which require repetitive movements with low force output. When a person engages in endurance exercise, a few noticeable changes occur in their skeletal muscles. For instance, the number of capillaries...
Cognitive Development During Adulthood
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Lifestyle Factors and Health
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...

