Resistive training and long-term function in older adults.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 24-month moderate-intensity resistive-training intervention on strength and function in older adults. A repeated-measures experimental research design was employed as a sample of 55 apparently healthy, older, community-dwelling volunteers (30 exercisers- 25 women and 5 men; 25 comparisons- 16 women and 9 men) were evaluated for strength of 5 muscle groups that influence lower extremity movement and physical function. Strength and function were evaluated at 6-month intervals. The findings from this study indicate that a moderate-intensity resistive-training program increases strength in older adults and that the strength benefits are retained for the duration of the intervention. Furthermore, a long-term strength-training program can increase independent-function skills in older adults and might therefore aid in prolonging functional independence.
Brandon
L Jerome
LJ
Rehabilitation Research and Development Center, VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA 30033, USA.
Boyette
Lisa W
LW
Lloyd
Adreinne
A
Gaasch
Deborah A
DA
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology*; D011897:Random Allocation; D013997:Time Factors; D014891:Weight Lifting / Q000502:physiology*