Abstract
Population aging is a global socioeconomic problem including Taiwan. Aging processes would result in a declination of muscle power, cardiopulmonary endurance, as well as functional performance. If we do not find the resolution, it would be the burden of society. Aims of the present study were to conduct a comprehensive program to community-dwelling older adults to promote their performance and achieve healthy aging in place. A one-arm interventional study was conducted to assess the effects of a multi-disciplinary program(2 hours a week, for 12 weeks), including physical training and safety guide, nutritional education, oral care, cognition training, and health talks. Participants were recruited from Huilong of New Taipei City and their physical functional performance was assessed with "senior functional fitness test”, also the demography data will be collected. Thirty volunteers were recruited, their demographic data showed as followed, age: 70.8±5.5, male: 14, dropout: 4. Intention to treat was conducted for data analysis. all outcomes improved significantly(Strength of U/E: 5.1± 5.5; L/E: 4.8±3.8; Flexibility of L/E: 2.0± 5.2; Endurance: 13.5±18.1;Balance: TUG: 0.70±1.5; One-leg stand: 5.7±7.8; p<0.05) except flexibility of upper limbs(data presented as: Difference of mean±SD). A comprehensive multidisciplinary program can improve the physical function except for the flexibility of upper limbs for the participants. An intervention like the present study could improve functional status and further reduce the burdens of society. In future studies, we need a large sample size, long term follow up and randomized control trial to concrete these findings.
Author Information
Zih-Ming Syu, Lo-Sheng Sanatorium and Hospital Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
Ren-Jei Tsai, Cardinal Tien Hospital, Taiwan
Yu-Chen Huang, Lo-Sheng Sanatorium and Hospital Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
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