Comparison of Strength Training Interventions on Functional Performance in Frail Nursing Home Residents

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Frailty and functional decline are critical issues in aging populations, especially in institutionalized older adults.
• Maintaining functional capacity is vital for autonomy, mobility, and quality of life in the elderly.
• Strength training interventions are explored to mitigate these declines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of functional electromechanical dynamometer (FEMD) training versus weighted vest training on strength, functional performance, and body composition in frail nursing home residents.
• To assess peak concentric and eccentric force during sit-to-stand tasks.
• To evaluate changes in functional performance metrics and body composition.

Main Methods:

• A pilot quasi-experimental study with a non-randomized control group involving 19 frail older adults (mean age 86.3 years).
• Participants were assigned to FEMD training (n=6), weighted vest training (n=6), or a control group (n=7) for eight weeks, training twice weekly.
• Assessments included body composition, handgrip strength, 30-second chair stand test, 3-meter walking speed, and sit-to-stand peak forces (concentric and eccentric).

Main Results:

• The FEMD group showed significant within-group improvements in chair stand performance, walking speed, and both concentric and eccentric peak forces during sit-to-stand.
• The weighted vest group demonstrated a significant increase in eccentric peak force but no functional improvements.
• No significant group-by-intervention interactions were found, suggesting no definitive differential effects between the two training methods.

Conclusions:

• Functional electromechanical dynamometer (FEMD)-based training showed potential for improving neuromuscular performance, particularly concentric peak force, in frail institutionalized older adults.
• While promising, the observed functional improvements require cautious interpretation due to the pilot nature and lack of significant group interactions.
• Further adequately powered randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and specific benefits of FEMD-based training for this population.