An exploratory cluster randomized controlled trial of group exercise on mobility and depression in care home residents.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the feasibility, acceptability and potential efficacy of group exercise for residents in care homes.


METHODS
Exploratory cluster randomized controlled trial.


METHODS
Five randomly selected care homes in South Birmingham, UK.


METHODS
Fifty-six care home residents (mean age 84.5, 71% female), 39 (70%) with cognitive impairments.


METHODS
Two homes (n = 28) were randomized to group exercise held twice weekly for five weeks. The remaining three homes (n = 28) formed the control group and received usual care, with no person specifically responsible for exercise training.


METHODS
Assessments were conducted at zero (pre-intervention), three (post-intervention) and six months (follow-up) using the Rivermead Mobility Index and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale or Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire (depending on cognitive impairment). Adherence to group exercise and retention to the study were also documented.


RESULTS
No statistically significant improvements in mobility or depression were found in favour of group exercise. Retention to the study was high with 46 (82%) participants completing all assessments. Adherence to group exercise was somewhat lower with participants attending a mean of 3.61 out of 8.5 prescribed sessions (42.5%).


CONCLUSIONS
Group exercise can be delivered to care home residents with reduced mobility but it is not suitable for residents with severe cognitive impairment. An estimated sample size of 240 participants would be required to detect a clinically significant difference in the Rivermead Mobility Index with 90% power.
Brittle
Nicola
N
Primary Care Clinical Sciences, School of Health and Population Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK. nicbrittle@hotmail.com
Patel
Smitaa
S
Wright
Christine
C
Baral
Sabrina
S
Versfeld
Pam
P
Sackley
Catherine
C
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D016000:Cluster Analysis; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003863:Depression / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006707:Homes for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D051346:Mobility Limitation; D009735:Nursing Homes; D010349:Patient Compliance; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D016896:Treatment Outcome