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EVALUATION OF CHANGES IN FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE AFTER A 6-MONTH EXERCISE PROGRAM FOR OLDER ADULTS

Abstract

Aging adults may face challenges such as decreased strength and functional ability, resulting in the risk of fall and injury. Risk is higher in individuals presenting mild cognitive impairment or mild to moderate Alzheimer’s Disease. PURPOSE: The purpose of this investigation was to assess the changes in body composition measurements, gait speed, and upper extremity strength to determine the efficacy of a functional training program for improving and slowing the decline of motor function in older adults. METHODS: Fifteen adults, age range 69-84, completed a functional training program for older adults with mild cognitive impairment and early onset dementia. As a retrospective evaluation, progress parameters were measured every 6-months to assess functional independence. Assessments measured at the beginning and every 6-months include gait speed by the 6-minute walk test, upper extremity strength by volume (30 second biceps curl repetitions x load), and body composition (total and skeletal muscle mass, percent body fat), and skeletal muscle index (SMI). RESULTS: Average (±SD) age, stature, and SMI were 75.9±5.2 years, 173.2±8.6 cm, and 7.6±1.0 kg/m2 at baseline. There were no significant changes indicated in body mass (p=0.664), skeletal muscle mass (p=0.241), or percent body fat (p=0.182) over the 6-months. Additionally, the distance walked in 6-minutes was unchanged (p=0.342). However, muscular strength and endurance improved over time (mean change 37.9 lb; p=0.001), demonstrating an improvement in the weight lifted and repetitions in 30 seconds. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that a 6-month functional training class emphasizing strength, balance, and mobility in aging adults has the ability to improve motor function of the upper body. Measuring the changes in scores of physical tests provides an objective method of assessing the health status of participants and the efficacy of the training regimen as it progresses. Evaluating a pre-existing exercise program revealed deficits in functional abilities amongst older adults and the training modes that are beneficial for enhancing physical and mental health as well as preventing age-associated medical conditions. The results of this investigation will guide future research in and implementation of functional training for older adults.

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