Physical Fitness In Older Adults Research Articles

The Impact of a 12-Week Aqua Fitness Program on the Physical Fitness of Women over 60 Years of Age.

This study aimed to assess the impact of a 12-week Aqua Fitness program on the physical fitness of older women and emphasize sustainable health practices for aging populations. We focused on evaluating the program's effectiveness, using the Senior Fitness Test to measure improvements in physical capabilities. An experimental research design was implemented, with 30 participants aged 60 and older. The participants were divided into a control group and an experimental group, each comprising 15 individuals. The control group received aqua Fitness exercises, and the experimental group received aqua fitness exercises and isometric (combined) exercises. Lower limb muscle strength, upper limb muscle strength, lower body flexibility, upper body flexibility, dynamic balance, agility, and endurance were assessed using the Senior Fitness Test. Assessments were conducted pre- and post-training. For a comparison within the group, combined exercises (aqua fitness and isometric exercises) had a significant effect on lower limb muscle strength, upper limb muscle strength, lower body flexibility, upper body flexibility on the right side, dynamic balance, agility, and endurance. Aqua fitness exercises alone showed significant effects on upper limb muscle strength, lower body flexibility, and endurance and no significant effects on other variables. For the comparison between groups, no significant differences were found between the effects of aqua fitness exercises and combined exercises on lower limb muscle strength, upper limb muscle strength, lower body flexibility, upper body flexibility, and endurance. Significant differences were found only in dynamic balance and agility between the two groups of aqua fitness and combined exercises. Although the combined program (aqua fitness and isometric exercises) had a greater effect on improving the physical fitness of older adults than aqua fitness alone, there was no significant difference between the two groups. Therefore, the results of this study highlight the potential of aqua fitness in promoting sustainable health and physical fitness in the older adult population.

Therapeutic Quality Affects Physical Fitness Benefits of Home Exercise Interventions in Older Adults: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression.

The international Consensus on Therapeutic Exercise aNd Training (i-CONTENT) tool is a new instrument developed to evaluate the therapeutic quality of exercise interventions. Home-based exercise has been shown to improve physical fitness in older adults, but its effects may be influenced by therapeutic quality. The purpose of this systematic review was to describe the therapeutic quality of home-based exercise interventions for community-dwelling older adults and examine the relationship between therapeutic quality and changes in physical fitness. Six electronic databases and 2 clinical trial registries were searched for randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of home-based exercise on physical fitness in community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years). Therapeutic quality was evaluated using the i-CONTENT tool for items of patient selection, type of exercise, safety, type/timing of outcomes, exercise dose, and adherence. International Consensus on Therapeutic Exercise aNd Training items were used to explain heterogeneity in meta-regression analyses. Risk of bias, certainty of evidence and credibility of analyses were assessed. Thirty-six trials (n = 6157 participants) were identified. Most studies (≥66.7%) had high or probably high therapeutic quality for i-CONTENT items, except exercise dose (47.2%) and adherence (16.7%). Interventions improved upper- (N = 20 trials; standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.39; 95% CI, 0.13-0.64; low certainty of evidence) and lower-body strength (N = 28; SMD = 0.42; 95% CI, 0.08-0.77; very low certainty), and aerobic fitness (N = 8; SMD = 0.42; 95% CI, 0.08-0.77; very low certainty). For exercise dose, low- or probably low-quality studies negatively influenced effects on upper- (estimated β = -.48; P = .049; moderate credibility) and lower-body strength (estimated β = -.77; P = .048; moderate credibility). For adherence, low- or probably low-quality studies negatively influenced effects on aerobic fitness (estimated β = -.97; P = .02; low credibility). Home-based exercise may improve upper- and lower-body strength, as well as aerobic fitness in older adults. However, the effectiveness of interventions is affected by inadequate dosing of exercise programs and adherence issues. Physical therapists should have the best available evidence to support their clinical decision making, especially when designing and monitoring home programs.

Functionality, muscular strength and cardiorespiratory capacity in the elderly: relationships between functional and physical tests according to sex and age.

Introduction: There are several tests that provide information about physical fitness and functionality in older adults. The aims of this study were: (i) to analyze the differences between sex and age in functional, strength and cardiorespiratory tests; and (ii) to study the correlations between functional, strength and cardiorespiratory tests according to sex and age. Methods: A total of 171 older adults (72.09 ± 13.27kg; 1.59 ± 0.09m; 72.72 ± 6.05years) were divided according to sex (men: n = 63; women: n = 108) and age (≥60 <70: n = 65; ≥70 <80: n = 89; ≥80: n = 18). Anthropometry, body composition, upper limb strength (hand grip; HG), lower limb strength (countermovement jump; CMJ), cardiorespiratory capacity (6min walking test; 6MWT), timed up and go test (TUG) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) were assessed. Results: Men showed higher values in CMJ height, HG and expired volume (VE) (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between sexes in TUG and SPPB. Regarding age, there were significant differences in CMJ, VE and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), TUG, gait speed, chair and stand test and SPPB total (p < 0.05). The test times were higher in older people. Regarding correlations, the TUG showed significant correlations in all strength and cardiorespiratory tests, regardless of sex and age. The CMJ correlated more significantly with functional tests compared to HG. Discussion: There were sex and age differences in functional, strength, and cardiorespiratory tests. The execution of quick and low-cost tests such as the CMJ and TUG could provide information on overall physical fitness in older adults.

Sensor-Integrated Chairs for Lower Body Strength and Endurance Assessment.

This paper describes an automated method and device to conduct the Chair Stand Tests of the Fullerton Functional Test Battery. The Fullerton Functional Test is a suite of physical tests designed to assess the physical fitness of older adults. The Chair Stand Tests, which include the Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (5xSST) and the 30 Second Sit-to-Stand Test (30CST), are the standard for measuring lower-body strength in older adults. However, these tests are performed manually, which can be labor-intensive and prone to error. We developed a sensor-integrated chair that automatically captures the dynamic weight and distribution on the chair. The collected time series weight-sensor data is automatically uploaded for immediate determination of the sit-to-stand timing and counts, as well as providing a record for future comparison of lower-body strength progression. The automatic test administration can provide significant labor savings for medical personnel and deliver much more accurate data. Data from 10 patients showed good agreement between the manually collected and sensor-collected 30CST data (M = 0.5, SD = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.13). Additional data processing will be able to yield measurements of fatigue and balance and evaluate the mechanisms of failed standing attempts.

Effectiveness of home-based video exercise programmes on physical fitness in older adults – systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Home-based video exercise programmes might be a suitable alternative to traditional physi¬cal activity in older adults to preserve muscle health. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effects of home-based video exercise programmes on physical fitness in older adults. Methods: A systematic review and robust variance estimation meta-analysis with meta-regression were carried out according to the recommendations and criteria outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Results: Thirteen studies involving 1,056 participants were included. Meta-analysis showed statistically significant positive changes in balance (p = 0.023), upper extremity strength (p = 0.049, and strength overall (p = 0.042), there was also statistically significant positive effect based on all the 28 outcomes in eight studies, including 696 participants (p = 0.008). Conclusion: The present systematic review and meta-analysis indicate that home-based video exercise programmes positively affect essential components of physical fitness, such as balance and strength, to prevent falls in older adults. Promoting home-based video exercise in clinical practice and ideally sup¬porting it through supervision is vital to effectively combat the age-related physical decline, especially for those in home isolation.

Effects of plank exercise on respiratory capacity, physical fitness, and immunocytes in older adults.

Plank is a readily accessible form of exercise that can benefit individuals of various fitness levels. However, its effectiveness in older individuals has not been conclusively established. Specifically, its impact on respiratory function, physical fitness, and immunocytes in them has not been thoroughly verified. The study encompassed participants with an average age of 64.33±1.98 years. All participants were randomly assigned to either the control group (COG) or the plank exercise group (PXG). The plank exercise was conducted 3 days a week for 12 weeks. While the values in the COG deteriorated, the PXG showed significant improvements in several parameters. Forced expiratory volume in one second and peak expiratory flow increased by approximately 27% and 16%, respectively, in the PXG, demonstrating significant differences (P<0.001) between the two groups. Additionally, VO2max, grip strength, and sit-ups increased by about 12%, 18%, and 42% in the PXG. Notably, innate immunocytes, such as NK cells, increased by approximately 30% in the PXG. For adaptive immunocytes, including CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, and CD8+ T cells, there were notable increases of around 18%, 19%, and 28%, respectively, in the PXG. These findings underline significant differences (P<0.001) between the two groups. This study provides confirmation that engaging in plank exercise can enhance the function of immunocytes, while also improving respiratory capacity and physical fitness in older adults.

Challenges and opportunity in mobility among older adults – key determinant identification

BackgroundAttention is focused on the health and physical fitness of older adults due to their increasing age. Maintaining physical abilities, including safe walking and movement, significantly contributes to the perception of health in old age. One of the early signs of declining fitness in older adults is limited mobility. Approximately one third of 70-year-olds and most 80-year-olds report restrictions on mobility in their apartments and immediate surroundings. Restriction or loss of mobility is a complex multifactorial process, which makes older adults prone to falls, injuries, and hospitalizations and worsens their quality of life while increasing overall mortality.ObjectiveThe objective of the study is to identify the factors that have had a significant impact on mobility in recent years and currently, and to identify gaps in our understanding of these factors. The study aims to highlight areas where further research is needed and where new and effective solutions are required.MethodsThe PRISMA methodology was used to conduct a scoping review in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Papers published from 2007 to 2021 were searched in November 2021. Of these, 52 papers were selected from the initial 788 outputs for the final analysis.ResultsThe final selected papers were analyzed, and the key determinants were found to be environmental, physical, cognitive, and psychosocial, which confirms the findings of previous studies. One new determinant is technological. New and effective solutions lie in understanding the interactions between different determinants of mobility, addressing environmental factors, and exploring opportunities in the context of emerging technologies, such as the integration of smart home technologies, design of accessible and age-friendly public spaces, development of policies and regulations, and exploration of innovative financing models to support the integration of assistive technologies into the lives of seniors.ConclusionFor an effective and comprehensive solution to support senior mobility, the determinants cannot be solved separately. Physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and technological determinants can often be perceived as the cause/motivation for mobility. Further research on these determinants can help to arrive at solutions for environmental determinants, which, in turn, will help improve mobility. Future studies should investigate financial aspects, especially since many technological solutions are expensive and not commonly available, which limits their use.

Effects of Water-Based Exercise on Cardiometabolic-Related Proteins and Physical Fitness in Older Adults

Effects of Water-Based Exercise on Cardiometabolic-Related Proteins and Physical Fitness in Older Adults

Physical fitness and its correlation with handgrip strength in active community-dwelling older adults

In this cross-sectional study, we assessed the physical fitness levels of active community-dwelling older adults. Moreover, we investigated the correlation of their (stratified by age and sex) fitness levels with handgrip strength (HGS). Comprehensive physical fitness tests, including sarcopenia screening, were conducted with a total of 2,130 older adults residing in a rural area of Taiwan. The 5th, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, and 95th percentiles of age- and sex-specific physical fitness levels were determined. Furthermore, we identified the key parameters for assessing the physical fitness of older adults and performed stepwise multiple linear regression analysis. Both men and women exhibited age-related decreases in all aspects of functional fitness, a trend indicating that older adults in Taiwan may lose their independence in the future. Furthermore, the regression analysis revealed that HGS was positively correlated with sex, body mass index, and the results of 30-s arm curl and back scratch tests but negatively correlated with age and the result of 8-foot up-and-go test. Our reference values for physical fitness may help assess the fitness levels of active community-dwelling older adults and design community-based health programs to prevent the early loss of independence in community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan.

A hierarchy of correlates for objectively measured physical activity, sedentary time, and physical fitness in older adults: A CHAID analysis

ABSTRACT The aging process reflects, in many cases, not only a decline in physical activity (PA) and physical fitness (PF), but also an increase in overall levels of sedentary time (ST). In order to hierarchically identify the most powerful correlates related to low and high levels of objectively assessed PA, ST, and PF during the late adulthood, a total of 2666 older adults were cross-sectionally evaluated. Multidimensional correlates were obtained through interview. Using chi-squared automatic detection analysis to identify the cluster of correlates with most impact on PA (<21.4 min/day), ST (≥8 h/day), and PF (<33.3th percentile), was found that the most likely subgroup to be physically inactive consisted of widowers not owning a computer and sport facilities in the neighbourhood (94.7%), while not being widowed, reporting to have a family that exercises and a computer at home (54.3%) represented the subgroup less likely to be inactive. Widowers without sidewalks in the neighbourhood were the most sedentary group (91.0%), while being a married woman and reporting to have space to exercise at home (40%) formed the most favourable group of correlates regarding ST. Men reporting a financial income <500€ and physical problems frequently formed the group with the lowest PF level (70.3%). In contrast, the less likely subgroup to have low levels of PF level consisted of having a financial income ≥1000€ and a computer at home (3.4%). Future interventions should target widowers with limited accessibility to computer and urban/sport-related infrastructures, as well as impaired older adults with low financial income. Highlights Chi-squared automatic interaction detection was used to identify and hierarchise correlates of objectively measured physical activity, sedentary time, and fitness. Widowers not having a computer at home and sport facilities in the neighbourhood were the most likely to be physically inactive, while not being widowed, having a family that exercises and a computer at home represented the subgroup less likely to be physically inactive. The most likely to be classified as sedentary were widowers without sidewalks in the neighbourhood, while the most favourable group of correlates regarding ST was formed by married women and reporting to have space to exercise at home. Individuals with a low financial income and physical problems comprised the population subgroup with the lowest PF levels, while having a medium-high financial income and a computer at home represented the less likely subgroup to have low levels of PF.

The Role of Physical Function in the Association between Physical Activity and Gait Speed in Older Adults: A Mediation Analysis.

Simple SummaryAging is associated with vulnerability in terms of a natural decline of most physiological systems, and, consequently, physical function (PF) performance (e.g., cardiorespiratory performance, muscle strength, flexibility, speed, balance) decreases. Adequate physical activity (PA) levels are essential to maintaining or increasing PF performance, directly influencing gait speed (GS). Having a fast GS increases the older adult’s capacity to perform daily tasks safely and remain autonomous at an advanced age. Our study aimed to explore the mediating role of PF in the relationship between PA and GS in a large sample of older adults from the north of Brazil. Regarding the PA-total level, the analysis showed that a fast GS was partially mediated by approximately 19% by a better PF performance. PF partially mediated the association between PA-sport and GS in approximately 9%, and PF partially mediated the association between PA-leisure and GS in 46%. We observed a significant and negative association between PA-housework and GS. Thus, PF partially mediated the association in about 9% of cases. Consequently, our study suggests that among older adults, PF plays a crucial role in mediating the association between PA and GS levels in the vulnerable aging population.Adequate levels of physical function (PF) are essential for vulnerable older adults to perform their daily tasks safely and remain autonomous. Our objective was to explore the mediating role of PF in the relationship between physical activity (PA) and gait speed (GS) in a large sample of older adults from the north of Brazil. This is a cross-sectional study that analyzed 697 older adults (mean age 70.35 ± 6.86 years) who participated in the project “Health, Lifestyle, and Physical Fitness in Older Adults in Amazonas” (SEVAAI). PA was assessed using the Baecke Questionnaire, PF using the Senior Fitness Test, and GS using the 50-foot Walk Test. Mediation pathways were analyzed to test the possible mediating role of PF between specific PA domains (PA-total score, PA-housework, PA-sport, PA-leisure) and GS. Regarding PA-total, the analysis showed that high-performance GS was partially mediated in approximately 19% by better PF performance. Moreover, the PF could partially mediate the association between PA-sport and PA-leisure with GS, at levels of approximately 9% and 46%, respectively. An inverse relationship was observed between PA-housework (sedentary lifestyle) and GS. This association was partially mediated to an extent of approximately 9% by better PF performance. We conclude that PF plays a crucial role in mediating the association between PA and GS among vulnerable older adults.

Effects Of 8-week Walking Exercise On Gait Ability And Physical Fitness In Older Adults

Effects Of 8-week Walking Exercise On Gait Ability And Physical Fitness In Older Adults

Effects of multicomponent training and detraining on the fitness of older adults with or at risk of frailty: results of a 10-month quasi-experimental study

ABSTRACT The aims of this study were (1) to analyse the effects of a 6-month multicomponent training (MCT) on the physical fitness of older adults with or at risk of frailty; (2) to study the consequences of a 4-month detraining period; (3) to analyse the influence of frailty status on the training and detraining adaptations. A total of 102 robust, frail and prefrail older adults (80.1 ± 6.1 y) were divided into an intervention (TRAIN) and control group (CON). The TRAIN performed a 6-month MCT, while the CON continued with their usual lifestyle. Fitness assessment was mainly based on the Senior Fitness Test. Four evaluations were carried out; at baseline, and at 3, 6 and 10 months from baseline. Linear mixed models were performed to analyse group by time interactions and to compare differences in changes within groups between different time points. After 6-month MCT, TRAIN showed greater improvements for all fitness variables (group effects p < 0.05, except for flexibility) when compared to the CON. During the 4-month detraining period, TRAIN significantly decreased their balance, upper-limb flexibility and upper and lower-limb strength (all p < 0.05). CON only decreased upper-limb flexibility. When accounting for frailty status in the TRAIN, the frail-prefrail showed lower adaptations to the training and were more affected by detraining than the robust. The presented MCT is a good strategy to improve fitness in this population, but its positive effects are limited in time. It is, therefore, critical to avoid detraining periods. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03831841. Highlights Our 6-month MCT-program improves the physical fitness of robust, frail and prefrail older adults A detraining period of four months partially deteriorates the physical fitness of robust, frail and prefrail older adults, so it is recommended to promote ongoing exercise programs or smaller break periods It seems that those older adults with a more advanced frailty status may not benefit from exercise to the same degree and will be more affected by detraining. Therefore, trainers may need to individualize training protocols to obtain the greatest exercise benefits.

Does nutritional status influence the effects of a multicomponent exercise programme on body composition and physical fitness in older adults with limited physical function?

ABSTRACT Physical exercise effects and ageing on fitness may be influenced by nutritional status. This study investigates the effects of a 6-month multicomponent exercise training (MCT) on nutritional status and evaluates if this type of exercise could affect differently body composition and physical fitness depending on the nutritional status of older adults with decreased functional capacity. Ninety-three participants (80.4 ± 6.0 y) were divided into control (n = 45) and intervention (n = 48) groups. The intervention consisted of a 6-month multicomponent training. Comparisons between changes in body composition and fitness during the 6-months were performed between individuals at risk of malnutrition and those well-nourished, according to the Mini Nutritional Assessment. Model mixed-effect analyses were used to investigate differences after the 6 months of MCT between groups. Well-nourished participants compared with those at risk of malnutrition had higher: arm (13.4 ± 3.5 vs 14.3 ± 33.6 repetitions) and leg strength (9.0 ± 3.0 vs 11.1 ± 3.3 repetitions), maximum walking speed (31.6 ± 13.1 vs 23.7 ± 6.3s), agility (11.9 ± 5.8 vs 8.3 ± 2.1s), and aerobic capacity (31.6 ± 13.1 vs 23.7 ± 6.3 m), at baseline. After the training, those without risk of malnutrition in CON decreased their nutritional status (−1.7 + 0.7 points). Those well-nourished that performed the intervention decreased total fat mass (−1.0 ± 0.3 kg) and body fat percentage (−1.2 ± 0.4%). Both groups of training improved similarly in all tests, except for balance, in which the well-nourished showed improvements of 6.3 ± 1.9s. These results underline the usefulness of MCT in improving physical fitness regardless of nutritional status and preventing nutritional status detriment in well-nourished older adults, who are fitter and benefit more, in terms of body composition. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03831841. Highlights Multicomponent exercise programme seems to be effective in delaying detriments in the nutritional status of well-nourished people. Well-nourished older people obtain more benefits in body composition from the multicomponent exercise than those at risk of malnutrition, decreasing adiposity. The positive effect of multicomponent exercise was observed in physical fitness independently of nutritional status.

The assessment of balance and gait after programmed therapeutic exercises in elderly

Introduction: People over the age of 50 begin to show manifestations of reduced balance and instability, and as a result, simple activities such as standing or getting up from a chair may become limited or impossible. Therapeutic strengthening exercises can increase muscle strength and improve mobility, as well as the physical functioning of the elderly. The aim of this study was to evaluate therapeutic exercise on balance and gait in elderly. Methods: The prospective study included two groups of 130 respondents over the age of 65 who had come to the “Center for Healthy Aging Novo Sarajevo.” Using the Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) test, we assessed mobility performance. We tested the respondents at the beginning, in the middle and in the end of the research, which lasted 6 months. Results: In the control group, the required time increased by 2.04%. The largest improvement within POMA B was recorded in the examined Group B and it was 12.67 %, while in the examined Group A, the improvement was only 5.07%. Within POMA G, the largest improvement was also recorded in the examined Group B and it was 6.82%, while in the examined Group B, this improvement was 4.14%. Conclusion: Both strengthening and antigravity therapeutic exercises improve the level of physical fitness in older adults, although therapeutic antigravity exercises had a better impact on the level of physical activity.

Traditional and Undulating Periodization on Body Composition, Strength Levels and Physical Fitness in Older Adults

Introduction: Undulating training has been investigated in sedentary and trained adults, but less is known about the influence of undulating training in older adults. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate body composition, strength levels, and physical fitness in response to traditional or undulating training in older adults. Methods: A controlled, double-arm trial was conducted in eighteen older adults (10 males, 8 females; 64 ± 2.1 years; 165.12 ± 7.5 cm; 72.5 ± 11.4 kg; 26.5 ± 3.2 k·gm−2) who were randomly assigned to traditional (n = 9, TT) or undulating training (n = 9, UT) for eight weeks. Dual X-ray absorptiometry was used to measure fat-free mass (FFM), fat mass (FM), and bone mineral density (BMD). Strength levels were evaluated by the handgrip strength and the one-repetition maximum in vertical chest press, rowing machine, squat, monopodal horizontal leg press, and leg extension. In addition, functional capacity was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test (SFT). Statistical analysis included mean/median comparisons to establish the difference after the intervention (paired Student’s t-test or Wilcoxon test), and effect size calculations based on estimates. Results: After correction for fat-free adipose tissue, a significant increase in FFM was observed in both groups, while no significant changes were found in FM and BMD. Upper- and lower-limbs strength showed significant increases in both groups, although clinical significance varied among exercises. Favorable results were seen on the cardiorespiratory fitness and strength components of the SFT in both groups. Conclusions: The 8-week UT and TT protocols are valid options for improving FFM and increasing strength and functional capacity in women and men over 60 years of age.

Walking Promotes Physical Fitness of Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Physical activity is positively associated with the health of older adults. Walking is a simple activity that can be applied to older adults. This article aims to systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of walking on physical fitness in older adults. Studies were searched from 13 databases. Results showed that walking could improve aerobic endurance (21.04, 95% CI [13.82, 28.27]), lower body strength (2.77, 95% CI [1.46, 4.09]), static balance (6.07, 95% CI [3.34, 8.79]), and agility and dynamic balance (1.52, 95% CI [0.23, 2.80]). Walking is effective and should be promoted to improve the physical function of older adults.

The health impact of an innovative summer camp for older adults: a pilot study using an interdisciplinary collaborative approach

BackgroundHealthy aging with dignity and aging in place are important for Taiwanese individuals. Although Taiwan did not experience COVID-19 outbreaks prior to May 2021, many older adults have been encouraged to stay at home since the beginning of the global pandemic in January 2020. Such shelter-in-place recommendations have resulted in significant lifestyle changes, limiting activities associated with aging with dignity such as exercise and community engagement. Few studies have explored how to promote or maintain holistic health practices and physical fitness in older adults residing in rural communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. This pilot study aimed to establish an interdisciplinary collaboration with community care workers (CCWs) and evaluate the impact of an innovative summer camp (ISC) program for older adults residing in rural areas.MethodsA quasi-experimental pre-post-test design with an interdisciplinary collaborative approach was implemented. The ISC program was based on a standardized protocol of modified Baduanjin exercise combined with three recreational breathing games. Participants were recruited from three community centers around the western coastal region of Yunlin County between June and August 2020. The ISC program was designed and executed by a nurse-led health promotion research team that collaborated with trained CCWs for 90 min per day, five days per week, for 12 weeks. Participants and CCWs wore facemasks during all activities. Paired t-test was used to measure changes in physical biomarkers, pulmonary lung function, and health-related fitness changes.ResultsSixty-eight participants completed the ISC program. The ISC program significantly improved the participants’ physiological biomarkers and health-related fitness, including reduced body weight, waistline, and systolic blood pressure, and increased forced vital capacity, biceps arm flexion, and ability to sit and stand from a chair, step with a knee up in situ, and stand on one foot with eyes open. Most participants reported that they felt happy, satisfied, and hoped that this program would be continued in their community center.ConclusionsThis interdisciplinary, collaborative ISC program improved physical biomarkers and health-related fitness in older adults. Despite limitations, results strongly suggested that primary healthcare providers and CCWs can employ the described ISC program to promote wellness in older adults.

Does a Multicomponent Exercise Program Improve Physical Fitness in Older Adults? Findings From a 5-Year Longitudinal Study

The objective was to assess the physical fitness of older adults participating in a 5-year multicomponent exercise program. The sample consisted of 138 older adults aged 60-93years (70.4 ± 7.8years) evaluated with the Senior Fitness Test (muscle strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiorespiratory fitness). The multicomponent program was carried out between the months of March and November of each year. Data were analyzed using generalized estimating equations (factor year: Year 1, Year 2, Year 3, Year 4, and Year 5; factor time: pretest and posttest) with Bonferroni's post hoc test. Participation in the multicomponent exercise program for 5years (baseline pretest Year 1 and follow-up Year 5) improved lower and upper limb strength, lower limb flexibility, and balance and cardiorespiratory fitness, while upper limb flexibility was maintained. Year-by-year analysis revealed variable patterns for each fitness parameter. The results of this study show the potential benefits of implementing a long-term community-based exercise program.

Sex- and age-specific normative values for handgrip strength and components of the Senior Fitness Test in community-dwelling older adults aged 65\u201375\u2009years in Germany: results from the OUTDOOR ACTIVE study

BackgroundPhysical fitness is a key component of independent living and healthy ageing. For the measurement of physical fitness in older adults, the Senior Fitness Test is a commonly used tool. The objective of this study is to calculate sex- and age-specific normative values for handgrip strength and components of the Senior Fitness Test for older adults (65–75 years) in Germany.MethodsCross-sectional data of 1657 community-dwelling older adults residing in Bremen, Germany (53% female) were included in this study. Physical fitness was assessed using the following measurements of the Senior Fitness Test battery: 30s-chair stand test, 2 min-step test, sit-and-reach test, and back scratch test. In addition, handgrip strength was measured using a Saehan DHD-3 digital hand dynamometer SH1003. Sex- and age specific normative values were calculated for the 1st, 3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, 97th, and 99th percentile using the GAMLSS method.ResultsThe normative values show differences dependent on sex and age. For handgrip strength, the 30s-chair stand test and the 2 min-step test, normative values were higher for men, while women reached higher values in the sit-and-reach test and the back scratch test. For both, men and women, normative values declined with age.ConclusionsThis study provides sex- and age-specific normative values for handgrip strength and components of the Senior Fitness Test for older adults in Germany. They might be useful for future research and for the application in practice.