Physical Activity and Mobility Function in Elderly People Living in Residential Care Facilities. “Act on Aging”: A Pilot Study

Monica E. Liubicich, Daniele Magistro, Filippo Candela, Emanuela Rabaglietti, Silvia Ciairano

Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
University Interfaculty School of Motor Science (SUISM), Research Centre in Motor and Sport Science, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.

DOI: 10.4236/ape.2012.22010                

Abstract

The present study aims at investigating the changes between pre-test and post-test in mobility function, balance, and gait after a physical activity program in a sample of elderly people. Forty-four individuals living in residential care facilities were recruited, with a mean age of 85 (SD = 6.6) in the control group and 84.26 (SD = 7.4) in the intervention group. We collected baseline and post-test measurements for the Tinetti Test. The findings showed that the physical activity intervention had a positive effect on physical functions. There was a statistically significant change between the means of the two groups over time; the intervention groups showed a stable condition with respect to overall mobility function, balance, and gait while the control group showed decreased performance at the post-test. These results underline that even in critical conditions, relatively simple training may promote a more positive adjustment to old age.

Keywords

Aging; Physical Functioning; Exercise; Balance; Gait; Mobility Function

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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