INCREASED ACCESS TO RESEARCH-BASED COMMUNITY STRENGTH TRAINING PROGRAMS IMPROVES FUNCTIONAL STATUS IN OLDER ADULTS

Abstract

A self-sustaining network of strength and balance training programs for older adults has been created and evaluated for impact on functional status and health using an applied research model in the public health domain. The Strong Living Program (SLP) has three primary components: 1) a 12-wk research-based exercise prescription of 14 total body exercises using body weight and free weights; 2) an interactive training workshop for health care professionals and lay persons to provide detailed instruction and collateral materials and methods on how to implement, conduct and evaluate a SLP; and 3) program site visits and on-going administrative and exercise prescription support. Training workshop results showed that 91% of attendees (n = 81) were certified as SLP leaders and successfully implemented exercise programs at 27 community sites. Effectiveness of the exercise prescription was assessed using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and the Medical Outcomes Survey SF-36 (MOS) data from a sample of healthy and diseased older women and men (n = 80, mean age = 70.9 ± 7.9 yr) from five sites. SPPB score increased significantly from 10.1 ± 2.3 at baseline to 11.2 ± 1.4 at 12 wk (p = 0.000), indicating clinical improvement in lower extremity functional status. MOS results for physical function and emotional health domains at both baseline and 12 wk were in the highest quartile. Despite this potential ceiling effect, a trend towards statistical significance was seen in emotional health after 12 wk of exercise. These longitudinal data suggest that a positive impact on public health can be achieved through the expansion of the SLP applied research model and increased access to these research-based exercise programs.