Promoting social inclusion and quality of life in older adults through aerobic exercise programs

Abstract

Background: Aging is an individual and collective process that alters health and quality of life of older adults. It deteriorates the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular and cardiovascular systems and causes damage to functionality. In the same way, the main risk factors for chronic diseases are overweight and sedentary lifestyle. The key to improve the quality of life is to be physically and mentally active. Objective: to apply an intervention to improve the life quality of older adults through an aerobic exercise program. Methods: a quantitative, observational and longitudinal approach was applied. The program lasted 12 weeks with an initial and final evaluation. The population consisted of 30 older adults, who underwent a warm-up, aerobic exercise (dance therapy) and flexibility and stretching exercises. The SF-36 quality of life questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) were used. Results: it was established with a value p<0.001 that the dimensions evaluated by the SF-36 questionnaire improved. There was a change in physical function, physical role, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social function, emotional role and mental health, as well as in the level of physical activity. Conclusions: a positive change was observed. The aerobic exercise program reduces the musculoskeletal pain associated with aging and produces an increase in physical functionality. As a consequence, it favors an improvement in self-efficacy and self-esteem.