Comparing the effects of a home-based exercise program using a gerontechnology to a community-based group exercise program on functional capacities in older adults after a minor injury.

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Functional decline has been observed three to six months after a minor injury in previously independent older adults. Physical activity interventions are effective to prevent this decline but most of those older adults are not active. In fact, home-based and community-based exercise program present barriers for this population (e.g. lack of supervision, transport and predetermined schedule. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of a home-based physical activity intervention using gerontechnology in older adults who sustained minor injuries by comparing it to a traditional community-based group intervention. Method 48 previously independent individuals, aged 65 and older, discharged back home after consulting an Emergency Department to treat minor injuries were randomized into three groups 1) home-based exercise program using gerontechnology (HEPtech = 18) 2) supervised group community-based exercise program (YMCA = 16) or 3) control group (CONT = 12). Functional capacities and other physical outcomes were compared across groups after three months of intervention. Results Both intervention groups showed improved functional capacities (e.g. SPPB, Walking speed, Balance) after three months of physical activity intervention compared to control group who only maintain theirs. Conclusion This new home-based exercise intervention using gerontechnology could be a good alternative for health professionals who wish to help their older adults patients with minor injuries engage in exercise program in order to prevent functional losses.