title: Effects of an elastic band resistance exercise program on lower extremity muscle strength and gait ability in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
abstract: [Purpose] This study examined the effects of a resistance exercise programs aiming to improve muscular function in order to prevent and treat Alzheimer's disease in elderly people. [Subjects and Methods] Elderly patients with mild dementia were randomly assigned to an elastic band resistance exercise group (74.21±6.09 years). The experimental group (n=23) performed upper and lower extremity exercises three times per week for five months. Physical fitness was measured according to chair leg squat, one-leg stance, timed up-and-go test, 2-minute walking test, and gait ability before and after exercise. [Results] Static balance ability in which the participant stood on one foot with eyes open (left and right) increased significantly, but the dynamic balancing ability in the timed up-and-go test did not improve significantly. Cardiorespiratory function and gait speed improved significantly. [Conclusion] The five-month elastic band resistance exercise program improved muscle strength and endurance, cardiovascular function, and gait speed. Therefore, it may be an effective rehabilitation program for elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Education, College of Physical Education, Keimyung University, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Nayoung
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Ahn
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Education, College of Physical Education, Keimyung University, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: Kijin
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Kim
keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; Exercise; Muscular strength