[Benefits of physical activity in nursing home residents].
OBJECTIVE
To assess the effects of physical exercise on physical, functional and psychological dimensions in nursing home residents.


METHODS
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.
Piedras-Jorge
Cristina
C
Servicio de Fisioterapia, Residencia Nuestra Señora de la Estrella, El Vedat de Torrent, Valencia, España.
Meléndez-Moral
Juan Carlos
JC
Tomás-Miguel
José Manuel
JM
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006707:Homes for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity; D009735:Nursing Homes; D011788:Quality of Life