engleski

Effects of 24-week aerobic training protocol on physiological abilities and quality of life of free-living elderly females

The purpose of the study was to determine possible effects of 24-week aerobic training protocol on physiological abilities and quality of life of free-living elderly females. Fifteen (n=15) elderly females were divided into experimental (active elderly woman ; n=7, age 64.11±3.06 years, height 157.21±6.12 cm, weight 76.78±15.56 kg, body mass index 29.73±4.44 kg/m2) and control (non-active elderly woman ; n=8, age 67.78±5.29 years, height 160.02±2.75 cm, weight 70.69±6.90 kg, body mass index 27.43±3.94 kg/m2) group. Senior Fitness Test (SFT) and World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOLBREF) were used as measures for physiological abilities and quality of life, respectively. After 6 months, active elderly woman had significant improvements in aerobic endurance capacity measured with 2-Minute Step Test (ES=1.63 ; p=0.026) and agility with dynamic balance measured with 8-Foot Up-and-Go Test (ES=1.37 ; p=0.023), while body weight was significantly decreased (ES=0.17 ; p=0.013). Also, higher values were observed in physical (ES=0.72 ; p=0.024) and psychological health quality of life domains (ES=0.71 ; p=0.007). Non-active group showed no statistical changes in a 6 month period. In conclusion, long-term aerobic physical activity has positive effects on improving or maintaining physical fitness and quality of life among female elderly adults, prolonging a healthy way of living.

senior fitness tests ; quality of life ; geriatrics ; physical activity

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