A Comparative Study on Cycling in Relation to the Physical Balance, Muscle Strength, Self-Esteem and Depression of Elderly Women

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to provide basic data for development of nursing intervention to maintain and enhance healthy life by comparing the effect of the use of bicycle on balance (i.e. dynamic, static balance), muscle strength of upper and lower limbs, self-esteem, and depression of elderly women. A descriptive comparative study verifying difference by grasping balance, muscle strength, self-esteem, and depression intended for elderly women on the use of bicycle. For this study, data were collected for 4 weeks from July 29, 2013 to August 23, 2013 from 69 elderly women in total living in M city of G province, specifically 34 elderly women who used bicycle 3 times a week for 1 year and 35 elderly women who did not use bicycle. The elderly women using a bicycle showed that 25.61 and 7.66 seconds for a point of static and dynamic balance respectively, 17.38 and 14.15 times for the number of times for muscle strength of upper and lower limbs, respectively, and 5.44 and 32.82 points for depression and self-esteem, respectively, meanwhile the elderly women not using a bicycle showed that 15.51 and 8.65 seconds for a point of static and dynamic balance, respectively, 14.09 and 10.66 times for the number of times for muscle strength of upper and lower limbs, respectively, and 5.44 and 32.82 points for depression and self-esteem, respectively. An average difference between the two groups showed a significant difference statistically in balance-dynamic balance (t=1.836, p=.022), upper limb strength (t=3.623, p=.001), lower limb strength (t=5.202, p<.001), and depression (t=-2.697, p=.009). As the use of bicycle leads to enhanced dynamic balance, reinforced muscle strength in upper and lower limbs, and lowered depression, elderly women are encouraged to use a bicycle for improved their physical and mental strength. Keywords: Aged, Cycling, Depression, Extrimities, Muscle Strength, Postural Balance, Women