HOME-BASED STRENGTH AND BALANCE INTERVENTION FOR PROMOTING PHYSICAL FUNCTION AND HEALTH RISK FACTORS IN OLDER ADULTS

Abstract

Introduction: Older people are at increased risk for health and falls. Maintaining physical function and health is therefore important. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of home-based strength and balance training in improving health risk factors and physical function in older people. Methods: Forty-eight participants (57±6.18) were assigned to the intervention group and the control group. MANOVA was used to analyze participants' physical function and health risk factors at baseline and posttest. Results: There were significant differences between the intervention and control groups in triglycerides, one leg stand, sit to stand, time up and go, and 11-meter walk (all, p.05). The intervention significantly decreased cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and percent body fat, and significantly increased blood glucose levels and the ability to stand on one leg, sit to stand, time up and go, and 11-meter walk. (all, p < .05). Conclusions: Overall, 16 weeks of home strength and balance training can improve physical function in older people and some health risk factors. The study suggests that older people should exercise regularly to improve their muscle strength and balance. In addition, older people are advised to meet with a specialist so they can safely perform the exercises themselves.
(Journal of Sports Science and Technology 2021; 21 (2):8-25)
(Received: 26 August 2021 , Revised: 16 November 2021, Accepted: 24 November 2021)
Keywords: Triglyceride/ One-leg stand/ Timed up and go/ Sit to stand/ 11 meters walk