Evaluation of a Physical Activity Programme in Elderly Noninstitutionalised Adults

Physical activity is one of the key habits that influence healthy ageing, according to WHO. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a physical activity programme conducted in the context of an active ageing workshop on the functional sphere. The study had a single-group pre- and post-intervention design. It included 54 healthy, non-institutionalised adults aged 60 or over. The physical activity programme consisted of 90 twice-weekly group sessions lasting 45-60 minutes over 45 weeks. The participants did stretches and aerobic and muscle-toning exercises rising gradually in intensity throughout the programme. They were assessed with the Tinetti scale, the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) at weeks 0 and 45 of the programme. At week 45, we found a significant improvement in mobility according
to the TUG and in lower-limb strength evaluated by the SFT. Additionally, we found that gait and balance capacity, determined by the Tinetti scale, remained the same, as did upper-limb strength, aerobic endurance and upper and lower body flexibility, according to the SFT. The study results suggested that the physical activity exercises included in our programme may slow down the loss of functional sphere parameters
in adults aged 60 or over.