Positive effects of aerobic physical activity in institutionalized older subjects complaining of dyspnea.
Dyspnea is a common complaint in older subjects, but in some patients a disease responsible for this symptom is not found. We aimed to evaluate the effects of a short program of regular aerobic physical activity on dyspnea and ability to walk in a sample of older nursing home residents without evidence of cardiac and pulmonary disease. Limitation from dyspnea in daily activities was reported by 82% of residents; 34% of these individuals did not show any evidence of cardiac or pulmonary disease. In these subjects a 4-week period of daily exercise training compared with no intervention resulted in a significant improvement of dyspnea and endurance to walking. Dyspnea is an extremely common complaint in elderly residents in long-term facilities. About one-third of these subjects do not show evidence of cardiac or pulmonary disease. In these individuals a short period of exercise training has favorable effects on dyspnea and ability to walk.
Bo
Mario
M
Section of Geriatrics, Department of Medical and Surgical Disciplines, Azienda Ospedaliera San Giovanni Battista-Molinette, C.so Bramante 88, 10126 Turin, Italy. mario.bo@unito.it
Fontana
Mauro
M
Mantelli
Maurizio
M
Molaschi
Mario
M
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004417:Dyspnea / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009735:Nursing Homes; D016138:Walking