JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Promoting physical activity among older adults is widely recognized as a key factor in achieving successful ageing. However, there is a lack of research on the long-term effects of physical activity interventions in this population.

Objective:

This study investigated the benefits of a multisystemic exercise program for older adults.

Methods:

This study was a two-arm, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial involving 113 elderly participants aged over 65 years. The participants were selected via a non-probability-convenience sampling method. The participants were randomly divided into a multisystemic exercise group (n = 56) and a control group (n = 57). The multisystemic exercise program included strength, balance, endurance, stretching, and flexibility exercises and postural education conducted twice weekly for 24 weeks. The exercises followed a gradual approach, aiming to progressively increase training volume, intensity, sets, and repetition over time. The participants in the control group received postural education through a video. The data analysis was performed via SPSS-26.

Results:

There were statistically significant differences in the TUG test, MiniBESTest, and TWT between the two groups at baseline and at the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd months post-intervention (p<0.05). Within-group comparisons also revealed noticeable improvements in the TUG test, MiniBESTest, and TWT at baseline and at the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-month post-intervention readings. (p<0.05) for the TUG test

Conclusions:

This study supports the use of personalized exercise programs to promote the health of elderly individuals. Integrating these programs into routine clinical practice can improve their physical abilities. Future research should focus on long-term effects and integrate these programs into broader healthcare strategies for the ageing population Clinical Trial: IRCT20221005056094N1) 25-10-2022