[Benefits of physical activity in nursing home residents]

Abstract

Objective: To assess the effects of physical exercise on physical, functional and psychological dimensions in nursing home residents.

Material and method: A quasi-experimental design was used to test for treatment effects in a sample of elderly residents in two nursing homes. The treatment consisted of 8 weeks (two 60-minute sessions per week) of light physical exercise. Joint mobility, muscle strength, walking and stability, functional capacity, pain, cognitive status and psychological well-being were assessed as potential treatment outcomes.

Results: Participants were divided in a treatment group (n=24) and a control group (n=27). Statistically significant differences were found in knee extension, elbow flexors and knee extensors, stability and walking ability, as well as in functional capacity, cognitive functioning, and well-being. Pain perception decreased after the treatment.

Conclusions: The application of a physical activity program had positive effects on physical, functional and psychological facets of the residents' lives. Therefore, physical activity may prevent or reduce several medical and psychological problems associated with old age, thus avoiding functional loss and disability.