Improving Functional Performance Through a Group-Based Free Weight Strength Training Program in Residents of Two Assisted Living Communities

Abstract

Purpose. To determine the effect of a group-based free weight strength training program to improve strength and functional performance among residents of two assisted living communities.

Methods. Eighty-four residents (51 exercisers, 33 non-exercisers) aged 67-97 years participated in the 12-week pilot study. Six upper and eight lower body exercises were selected to improve activities of daily living such as walking, transferring, and bathing. A pre-test/ post-test design was used to measure change in strength and functional performance. Functional performance (1X and 5 X chair stand, 6m gait walk, balance); health perception (general health, sleep patterns, fear of falling), and medication usage were used as outcome measures. No participant injuries or other adverse effects were noted. Attendance based upon 3 times per week was 98%.

Results. Functional performance improved significantly among exercise participants in the 1 X and 5 X chair stand, 6 meter walk, and balance respectively. After the program, more exercise participants' reported their health as good, very good or excellent. They also reported feeling rested when they woke up and rarely waking up in the middle of the night. Fear of falling decreased in the exercise participants whereas fear increased in the non-exercisers. Medication use significantly decreased in the exercisers compared to in the non-exercisers.

Conclusion. A group-based free-weight strength training program can be successfully implemented in assisted living facilities, and is associated with significant improvement in functional performance.

Key Words:

• Strength training
• activities of daily living
• functional performance
• quality of life

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Dorothy Davis

Jennifer R. Johnson was a graduate student in the School of Occupational Therapy, Texas Woman's University, Houston, TX at the time of this study. She is currently employed as an Occupational Therapist at Touro Infirmary in New Orleans, LA

Taj Animal Mustafa

Debra Stewart is Lecturer, School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University and staff therapist at Erinoak Centre, Missis-sauga, Ontario. She is currently completing a MSc (Design, Measurement and Evaluation) at McMaster University.