A Study about a New Standardized Method of Home-Based Exercise in Elderly People Aged 65 and Older to Improve Motor Abilities and Well-Being: Feasibility, Functional Abilities and Strength Improvements

Abstract

Background: To verify the effects in terms of feasibility, strength and functional abilities of a standardized exercise training method that is partially supported (home training), with the aim of improving motor abilities and well-being. Methods: A total of 67 participants underwent two sessions per week for 12 weeks for the program, based on 8 sequences with specific body part targets, with each sequence made up of 9 exercises. Outcome measures: Recording of training session data, Chair Test, Hand Grip Test, Timed Up-and-Go Test, Stork Balance Test, Sit-and-Reach Test, VAS, Perceived Physical Exertion. Results: In total, 97% of the sample were “adherent” (more than 70% of the prescribed treatments performed). The rate of adverse events was infrequent (only 8). Chair Test +31%, Hand Grip Test +6%, Timed Up-and-Go Test −17%, Stork Balance Test +65%, Sit-and-Reach Test +55%, VAS −34%, Perceived Physical Exertion −69%. Conclusions: Home training has good feasibility (adherence, tolerability, safety) and cost-effectiveness ratio and improves both strength and functional abilities, which, in turns, helps to improve motor abilities and well-being.

Keywords

• fall prevention
• home setting
• adherence
• safety
• activity of daily living