Exercise Program in Older Adults Reduces Social Isolation and Boosts Independence

A latest study on the effects of exercise in healthy older adults confirms intervention programs reduce social isolation, boost independence and quality of life in older adults.

 Focusing on the benefits of physical activity, studies conducted earlier have revealed how older adults can significantly benefit from moderate but regular physical exercise.

Adding weight to this evidence is a latest study that suggests caregivers can lower social isolation and enhance independence and quality of life in older patients by redoubling their efforts in encouraging older adults to undertake exercise programs.

In this study the researchers measured the effectiveness of a 12-week exercise intervention. They wanted to check whether exercise help in lowering  health risks that are linked with physical decline in those above age 60 and older.

The study was conducted on 42 older adults suffering from multiple physical and mental health conditions that included arthritis, dementia and high cholesterol. Twenty five participants were included in the exercise intervention group and 17 were put the comparison group.

The two groups undertook the Senior Fitness Tests at baseline, 12 weeks, six months and 12 months. Focus group interactions were held with the intervention and comparison group at 12 weeks and then just with the intervention group after 12 months.

The researchers noticed that after the 12 weeks exercise program in the intervention group, there was a significant increase in fitness. The researchers also spotted significant difference in fitness among the intervention and comparison group at six and 12 months. The results were further supported by the focus group, confirming that exercise enhances the independence and quality of life as the adults reported quick strength and power gains.

The adults also reported that their knowledge about the exercise and the benefits increased ever since they were a part of the exercise program.

With this the authors suggests that nurses should motivate the older adults to utilize such exercise programs by using their skills and knowledge to support them. The researchers also hope that this study will be helpful during the development of community services for older adults.

The study was published in Nursing Older People.