Living Longer Living Stronger™: A community‐delivered strength training program improving function and quality of life

Abstract

This study investigated changes in function and quality of life for older adults participating in Living Longer Living Stronger™, a community-delivered strength training program for people aged over 50. Assessments were conducted at baseline, 4 and 8 months using measures of function, balance, mobility, strength, mental health and quality of life. Thirty-five participants (mean age 66 years, 69% female) completed 4 months of the program; 24 completed 8 months. Using repeated-measures anova, significant improvements were found at 4 and 8 months for step test, gait stride length, 6-minute walk test, timed sit to stand, physical performance test and reported health transition (SF-36). At 4 months (n = 35), vitality (SF-36), quality of life and left shoulder abductor strength significantly improved; at 8 months (n = 24), role physical and mental health (SF-36) and gait velocity significantly improved. The program appears to be an effective community-delivered strength training program.