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Analysis of exercise programs in assisted living facilities - a cross-sectional study
Howe Liu1, Yasser Salem2, Connor Murphy1
1Department of Physical Therapy, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
Geriatric Nursing (New York, N.Y.)
|October 18, 2025
Summary
Exercise programs in assisted living facilities (ALFs) are predominantly low-intensity, focusing on flexibility. Enhanced training for activity directors is needed to incorporate moderate and high-intensity exercises for improved resident physical activity.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Exercise Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Assisted living facilities (ALFs) provide care for older adults, with physical activity being crucial for maintaining functional independence.
- Describing current exercise programs in ALFs is essential for identifying areas for improvement in resident well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the exercise programs offered in 12 urban assisted living facilities in the United States.
- To analyze the demographics of participating residents and the experience of activity directors.
Main Methods:
- Data collection involved 216 residents capable of ambulation and their respective activity directors across 12 ALFs.
- Information gathered included resident demographics, assistive device usage, and details of the exercise programs (frequency, duration, intensity, type).
Main Results:
- 55% of participating residents used assistive devices, with limited recent professional assessment (16.8%).
- Exercise programs primarily consisted of seated or standing exercises focusing on range of motion, flexibility, and light resistance, offered 3-5 times weekly for 30-45 minutes.
- Despite varied director experience, most programs were low intensity.
Conclusions:
- Assisted living facility exercise programs are largely low-intensity, emphasizing flexibility and light resistance.
- There is a significant need for enhanced training for activity directors in designing and implementing moderate-to-high intensity aerobic and strengthening exercises.
- Encouraging greater resident participation in physical activity programs is recommended.
