Influence of Strength Training and Protein Supplementation on Fitness of Institutionalized Elderly

Influence of Strength Training and Nutritional Supplementation on Physical Performance and Well-being of Older People in Pensioner Homes

The aim of this randomized, observer-blind, controlled intervention study with parallel groups is to study the effect of strength training (2x/week for 6 months) with and without additional dietary supplementation (protein-enriched) on muscle strength, function and mass, oxidative stress parameters and the immune system in elderly institutionalized persons.

The participants (n = 120) are recruited from Viennese senior residencies (Kuratorium Wiener Pensionistenwohnheime). After a pre-participation screening participants will be distributed randomly but stratified by sex and age to one of the 3 intervention groups (cognitive training, strength training, strength training + supplement).

Study participants are eligible if they are male or female with an age over 65 years and if their cognitive status as well as their physical fitness level allows to participate at the strength training sessions. Exclusion criteria comprise chronic diseases which contraindicate the medical training therapy, serious cardiovascular disease, diabetic retinopathy and manifest osteoporosis, medication with anticoagulants or cortisone drugs and also regular strength training during the last six months.

Primary outcome measure is the change in isokinetic torque of knee extensors. Secondary outcome measures comprise anthropometric data, functional performance tests, immunological and oxidative stress parameters. The change in muscle signaling pathways will be assessed from muscle biopsies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adequate mental condition in order to follow the instructions and to perform the resistance exercise independently (Mini-Mental-State >23)
• Ability to walk 10 meters independently (without orthopaedic devices)
• 4 or more points at the Short Physical Performance Battery

Exclusion Criteria:

• Chronic diseases, which contraindicate a medical training therapy
• Serious cardiovascular diseases (congestive chronic heart failure, severe or symptomatic aortic stenosis, unstable angina pectoris, untreated arterial hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias)
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Manifest osteoporosis
• Regular use of cortisone-containing drugs
• Regular strength training (> 1x / week) in the last 6 months before inclusion