Evaluating the Effects of Sensorimotor Training on the Physical Capacities of Older People

Physical activity (PA) plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life (QoL) in older people, particularly by enhancing their balance and movement coordination.

This study aimed to assess the effects of sensorimotor training intervention in older adults.

A total of 90 participants, divided into a Control Group (n = 44) and Experimental Group (n = 46) were involved in a 24-week sensorimotor training program. The physical capacities of the participants were assessed both before and after the intervention program. Strength and flexibility were measured using the "Rikli and Jones" protocol (1999), while agility and speed were assessed through "Timed-up-and-go" tests. Taking into account the participants' gender, a descriptive analysis of the sample was conducted to describe the data using the mean and standard deviation. Student's T test was performed to compare the differences between the groups according to the first and second data collection moments (before and after the intervention). Jamovi software (v. 2.5.2.0) was used to develop the statistical analysis, using a p-value of less than 0.05 to assess the statistical significance.

The Experimental Group showed significant improvements across all the analyzed variables following the intervention (p < 0.005), indicating substantial gains in physical capacities. In contrast, the Control Group in the "sitting and reaching" test did not show a significant difference between the groups highlighting the lack of improvement without intervention. According to the effect size of the sample, it was observed that the parameters "reach behind your back (right)" and "reach behind your back (left)" showed the highest effect size comparing the Control Group and Experimental Group (ES: 0.60, 0.71).

The findings highlight the practical clinical impact of implementing tailored physical activity programs for older adults. Such interventions are critical for enhancing QoL, reducing the risk of falls, injuries, and chronic illnesses, and promoting overall health, independence, and well-being. Integrating sensorimotor training into the routine care for older people can support healthy aging and functional independence.